Under 8 Soccer Drills, Games, and Exercises

Shark Attack Soccer Drill

The Shark Attack drill is excellent for developing dribbling skills in a fun and engaging environment, encouraging young players to think and move quickly while maintaining control of the ball. This drill will help improve dribbling skills under pressure and to develop spatial awareness and agility.

Soccer Dribbling Basics

This soccer dribbling drill is fundamental to young player's development, laying the foundation for more advanced dribbling skills. Keeping the environment fun and encouraging is important, allowing players to build confidence in their ball-handling abilities. This drill introduces and improves basic dribbling skills and helps develop coordination and control of the ball with both feet.

4v4, Thirds of the Field, Shape and Positioning

This 4v4 drill is great for improving shape and positioning. Each player has their own responsibility: 1) attacker/target player stretches the field closer to the goal they are attacking. 2) winger players stretch the width of the field. 3) defensive player gives support to wingers and target player while staying the last man.

1v1 Transition

This is a fast-paced 1v1 game that focuses on quickly transitioning from the attack to defense.

1v1 Elimination Challenge

This drill sharpens 1v1 attacking, defending, and finishing under pressure. Players must react quickly after scoring, transition between attack and defense, and stay composed in high-pressure situations.

Dribble Speed Tag

This drill enhances dribbling under pressure, quick changes of direction, and spatial awareness. Players learn to protect the ball while navigating through a crowded area at speed.

Dribblers vs. Defenders Challenge

This drill develops dribbling under pressure, defensive tackling skills, and quick decision-making. Dribblers learn to protect the ball while defenders work on pressing and winning possession.

1v1 with 4 Small Goals Funino

This drill improves 1v1 attacking skills, defensive positioning, and finishing under pressure. Players learn to recognize attacking opportunities while also being responsible for defending their assigned goals.

2v2 with 4 Small Goals Funino

This drill enhances small-group play by developing combination play, defensive communication, and finishing under pressure. Players work on quick transitions between attack and defense in a game-like setting.

Dribbling with Pressure on the Back

This drill improves a player's ability to protect the ball while dribbling under pressure. It teaches awareness, quick reactions, and body positioning to maintain possession against a defender.

Dribbling and Turning with Pressure on the Back

This drill teaches players how to turn effectively when under defensive pressure. It improves awareness, body positioning, and ball protection while developing confidence in 1v1 situations.

Variable Distance Passing Game

This drill improves passing accuracy, technique, and decision-making at varying distances. Players learn to adjust power and precision while maintaining consistency under pressure.