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: Game to four goals
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.
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Set it up
30 × 35 yards
Position colored gates or targets around the area and use partners or small groups to provide changing information. Build a small-sided field with two goals spaced widely on each end line, balanced teams, and spare balls beside both touchlines.
- Players
- 8–18
- Equipment
- 1 game ball · spare balls · 16 cones · pinnies · 4 mini goals
- Play one uninterrupted round with normal scoring while the coach observes where the focus behavior already appears.
- Play to four goals; the coach observes shoulder checks and asks between rounds how players found the less-defended goal.
- Play three four-minute games with a one-minute question and water break; restart quickly from the nearest spare ball. 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