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1v1RepresentativeTactics

Engagement timing in the 1v1 (u12)

Teach when to come and when to wait in a 1v1 — the timing decision was untrained, and it is what separates the save from the foul or the easy goal.

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Load

minutes
12
dives/set
3
Sets and reps
3 × 4
Intensity
High

dives per set, per goalkeeper

Microcycle days it fits

MD-3, MD-2

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

Setup

Goalkeepers
1
server
1
outfield player
1

Space: 16 × 18 m

Equipment: Balls, Full goal, Cones

The coach serves and manages the breaks.

2 steps

A through-pass to an attacker running at goal. The goalkeeper decides to come and close the space while the ball is away from the attacker’s foot, or to delay if the ball is controlled and close.

Exercise sequence

Coaching points

  • Come while the ball is travelling or away from the foot — never at the instant the attacker can touch it.
  • If you can’t come, delay: retreat to buy time, forcing the attacker to decide first.
  • The commitment is decisive and explosive; the half-commitment is the worst error — it neither reaches the ball nor protects the goal.
  • Read the attacker’s touch: a long touch invites the come; a short touch asks for patience.

Progressions

  1. Surprise pass with the attacker accelerating.
  2. Give the attacker two angle options.

Regressions

  1. Announced pass and slow attacker.
  2. Shorten the pass distance.

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. BookAndy Elleray, «Goalkeeping in Football»