Coach in short cues
Scan before the action · Find pressure and space · Let the picture change the choice
SOCCER DEVELOPMENT HUB · DRILL EXPLAINER
See the picture: Channel challenge
Scanning · reinforces receiving & first touch
Look away from the ball early enough to identify pressure, space, and the next useful option.
Changing visual information gives every scan a purpose and makes the following touch or movement reveal whether the player used it.
Watch for: The head moves before the ball arrives. The player identifies a relevant cue, not just any object. The next touch or movement responds to what was seen.
●→↗→
Set it up
25 × 30 yards
Position colored gates or targets around the area and use partners or small groups to provide changing information. Create three eight-yard-wide connected channels with a four-yard start zone and end zone; place spare balls at both ends.
- Players
- 8–18
- Equipment
- soccer balls · 20 cones · pinnies
- Begin one group in each channel, explain the scoring direction and role rotation, and rehearse the first trip without defenders.
- Before receiving in a channel, check both adjacent channels and play into the one not occupied by the defender.
- Play three three-minute rounds: unopposed picture, guided pressure, then live game-like pressure. During play, coach only this action: Check while the ball is traveling or before moving, then return eyes to the ball for contact and act on the useful information.
- Progression: Add a defender whose starting side changes so the receiver must scan and choose the safer direction.
- Ask, “What information helped you decide before the ball reached you?” Listen to two answers, then replay so players can test an idea.
Soccer Development Hub original activity; design reviewed against U.S. Soccer player-centered session guidance and FIFA grassroots small-sided learning principles. · Editorial review