89-P7 · Pattern of play · U12–U17
Midfield Shape to Stop Penetration (CDM)
Midfield Shape to Stop Penetration (CDM) is a pattern of play for U12–U17 teams (9 players, 24 × 30 yards) that works on defending, compactness and press and cover.
This practice takes place in a 24 by 30-yard area and focuses on developing a compact midfield to stop penetrating passes.
Opens in Touchtight Club · 14-day free trial · Card required
1:32 - Age group
- U12–U17
- Players
- 9 players
- Area
- 24 × 30 yards (1/4 Pitch)
- Time
- 30 minutes
- Goalkeeper
- No
- Coaches
- 1
- Practice type
- Pattern of play
- Coach level
- Advanced (B Licence)
How it's set up
This practice takes place in a 24 by 30-yard area and focuses on developing a compact midfield to stop penetrating passes. We setup by splitting the area into three 8-yard zones, with three teams of three players starting in each. The objective is for the two outside teams to transfer the ball to each other, with the central team looking to stay compact and make interceptions. When the central team wins the ball, they must pass to the end player before switching out with the team that lost possession.
Key coaching points
- Midfielders must stay compact
- Recognise moments to make interceptions
- Pressing and covering - positions based off teammates movements
Also in the full practice
- 1 progression to make it harder as your players improveIn Club
- 3 player questions to check understanding during the practiceIn Club
- The coach-led video (1:32) how to set it up and deliver itIn Club
- Add it to your team's Dugout drop it into a session plan with your warm-up and gameIn Club
Open 89-P7 in Club → 14-day free trial
Run it with your team.
Watch 89-P7 in full, then add it to your next session. It's one of over 1,000 practices in the Touchtight Club library.
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