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Build-upRepresentativeTactics

Goalkeeper switch of play (u14)

Use the goalkeeper to switch play from the pressed side to the free side — the switch of play was untrained and is the tool that turns the goalkeeper into a creator of overloads.

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Load

minutes
10
Intensity
Low
Sets and reps
2 × 6

Microcycle days it fits

MD-4, MD-3

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

Setup

Goalkeepers
1
server
0
outfield player
3

Space: 30 × 16 m

Equipment: Balls, Full goal, Markers

The coach serves and manages the breaks.

2 steps

The press shuts one side; the centre-back returns to the goalkeeper, who switches quickly to the opposite, open side. Along the ground first, then lofted over the press.

Exercise sequence

Coaching points

  • Receive already oriented to the free side, body open to the field, not facing the passer.
  • The switch is fast but not rushed — the advantage only exists if the ball arrives clean on the open side.
  • Surface and weight of the pass adjust to distance: along the ground when short, lofted when a press cuts across.
  • Read before receiving: knowing where the free side is before the ball arrives saves the time the press steals.

Progressions

  1. Lofted pass over the press.
  2. Reduce time with a more aggressive press.

Regressions

  1. Ground pass with no real press.
  2. Bring the open-side target closer.

Sources · 2

  1. BookLeonhard Zeilinger e Franz Gruber, «The Ultimate Guide to Goalkeeper Training: Develop Motor Skills, Technique, Tactics, and Mindset» (Meyer & Meyer Sport, 2025), ISBN 9781782552918
  2. BookJoe Luxbacher, «The Soccer Goalkeeper: Techniques, Tactics, Training»