Set Pieces, Small-Sided Games, Dribbling, Passing · U8+
A 5v5 game that practices opening play with a goal carry. When the ball goes over the end line, the defending team restarts by dribbling from any point in its own penalty area. The opponents may wait 5.5 meters from the ball. The dribbler can take the ball forward themselves or pass to a free player. In the diagram, the presser comes toward the goalkeeper, so the goalkeeper passes to the left to a free player. This player carries along the flank and passes to the striker, who shoots. If the attack that starts from the goal carry ends in a goal, it is worth two points. All other goals are worth one point. Play short rounds and switch teams often. According to the Finnish Football Association rules, 8- and 9-year-olds restart a 5v5 game by dribbling. In games for 7-year-olds and younger, the opponent retreats to the halfway line during the goal carry and defends only after play has been opened.
Start the goal carry from the point in the penalty area with the most space. The dribbler keeps their head up and looks where the presser is coming from. The outfield players move to the flanks and into depth before the ball is even played. When the presser comes close, pass with the inside of the foot to the free player. The player who receives the pass plays their first touch forward into the free space.
Where do you start your carry and why? When do you dribble yourself, and when do you pass? Who of us is free when the presser comes? Where do you go when the ball is with our goalkeeper?
5v5 goal-carry game is a football drill on TacticsBoard. Category: Set Pieces, Small-Sided Games, Dribbling, Passing. Age group: U8+. Browse more football drills or create your own for free.