Skip to content
← Back to library

Build-upRepresentativeTactics

Short build-up under light pressure

Confirm passing-lane reading and switching play under low-intensity simulated pressure, without the physical toll of real pressing.

Add to a session

Which session should use this exercise?

You do not have any sessions yet. Create the first one to add this exercise.

New session
Choose a session and the exercise is added to today’s plan.

Load

minutes
8
Intensity
Low
Sets and reps
2 × 5

Microcycle days it fits

MD-1

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

Setup

Goalkeepers
1
server
0
outfield player
3

Space: 24 × 16 m

Equipment: Balls, Bibs, Cones

The coach serves and manages the breaks.

2 steps

Two centre-backs and a low-intensity presser. The goalkeeper takes part in circulation, looking for the free option or a switch of play depending on the presser’s position.

Exercise sequence

Coaching points

  • Read the presser’s position before receiving, so the decision is already made on the first touch.
  • A switch of play is only worth it if it’s faster than the presser can react — otherwise, keep circulation short.
  • Call out to the centre-backs which side is free, rather than just receiving and returning in silence.
  • Few reps of clean decision-making; this is not the day to force real pressing situations.

Progressions

  1. Raise the presser’s intensity closer to match pace.
  2. Add a second presser.

Regressions

  1. Remove the presser, keeping only circulation and space reading.
  2. Reduce to two outfield players.

Sources · 2

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