7v7 Soccer: Build Short or Go Long

A 7v7 soccer build-out game where the team decides whether to play short or go long based on how many opponents press. Students work on reading the press, playing out from the goalkeeper, and footwork on the ball.

How to play

1. Use a 55 x 38 yd field split into thirds with cones; teams of 7 with a goalkeeper plus a spare team (2 min).
2. Explain (2 min): against 3 or more pressing players in the first third, a long ball makes sense; against 2 or fewer, build out short with split center backs.
3. Build-out, 4 plus goalkeeper vs. 3 (6 min): getting out of the first third short is 2 points, a controlled long ball 1, a steal 2. Before each restart, signal the pressing team with fingers how many go (2, 3, or 4) where the goalkeeper cannot see.
4. 7v7 game (2 x 5 min): every goal-line restart is taken by the goalkeeper; the spare team records short or long and whether it worked.
5. Debrief (2 min): compare the data, and each team writes its own decision rule.

Rules

• The goalkeeper always restarts along the ground, by foot or by hand.
• Pressing players wait outside the box until the goalkeeper touches the ball.
• Nobody challenges at the goalkeeper's feet.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: plays goalkeeper, a low-movement, high-decision position.
• Visual impairment: a teammate calls out the number of pressing players before each restart.
• Lower skill level: may control one long ball per game with his or her hands.

Learning goals

• Read how many opponents are pressing before starting the play.
• Build out short with wide support and a holding midfielder.
• Agree on a team plan based on data.

Equipment for a class of 25

• Soccer balls: 8
• Goals: 2
• Pinnies: 21
• Cones: 12
• Whistle: 1

Teacher tip

Many goalkeepers always kick long out of fear of mistakes: reward smart risks. Keep the stat sheet on a clipboard so it does not blow away.

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