The attacking diamond teaches movement in formation. Four attackers work together to advance up the field, pass around defenders, and create a scoring chance.
Equipment needed: One goal, one soccer ball, cones to mark a center line, 8 kids (4 attackers, 2 defenders, 1 keeper, 1 coach).
Setup: Mark a 40-by-30-yard zone from the goal line to the center line. Four attackers start at the center line in a diamond shape (one left, one center, one right, one back). Two defenders start in the middle of the zone.
How to run it:
- Attackers pass and move toward goal, keeping the diamond shape.
- Defenders close down and try to win the ball.
- When attackers get within 15 yards of goal, one of them shoots.
- After a goal or turnover, reset and go again.
- Play 10 advancing runs.
What to look for: Shape maintenance and timing of the shot. Do they stay in a diamond or bunch up? The back attacker is the release valve; if everyone runs forward, the diamond collapses into a line. The shot should come from the player who has the cleanest angle, not the one closest to goal.
If they’re struggling: Take the defenders out for two reps. Let the four attackers move the ball through the diamond unopposed and end with a shot. Add one defender on rep three.
If they’ve got it: Add a third defender and a 12-second shot clock. They have to advance, shape, and finish before the count. Or rotate which point of the diamond starts with the ball.