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PositioningGameCompetition

Conditioned game with first-time finishing

Demand position and depth adjustments at real game tempo, with the first-time shooting rule compressing the time available to make them.

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Load

minutes
16
dives/set
6
Sets and reps
3 × 1
Intensity
High

dives per set, per goalkeeper

Microcycle days it fits

MD-4, MD-3, MD-2

Each bar’s height is that day’s dive ceiling.

Setup

Goalkeepers
2
server
0
outfield player
8

Space: 34 × 40 m

Equipment: Balls, Bibs, Full goal

One goalkeeper works while the other serves or observes. Swap after each set.

2 steps

4v4 on half a pitch, full goal at one end and mini goal at the other. Shots are only allowed first-time, forcing the goalkeeper to be permanently set — any pass can become a shot.

Exercise sequence

Coaching points

  • With first-time shooting allowed, the position must be set before the pass arrives, not after.
  • Read the body of the receiver, not just the player on the ball: that is where the shot is anticipated.
  • Depth is costly here — too high and the first-time shot goes over; too deep and the angle opens.
  • Call the press to the defender nearest the potential shooter, before the ball is released.

Progressions

  1. Narrow the pitch, raising density and shot frequency.
  2. Allow free shooting, adding uncertainty about when it happens.

Regressions

  1. Require three passes before a shot is allowed, giving time to organise.
  2. Widen the pitch.

Sources · 3

  1. StudyAdvice from “pracademics” of how to apply ecological dynamics theory to practice design (2023)
  2. Book«Scientific Approaches to Goalkeeping in Football», Bennion Kearny
  3. CurriculumRegulamento do Curso UEFA de Treinadores de Guarda-Redes «B», Federação Portuguesa de Futebol