November 6, 2026 · Football Strategy

A 60-Minute Football Tactics Training Session

Plan a 60-minute football session that progresses from passing angles to a realistic press, with simple coaching cues and a short review.

Pitch diagram for a session progressing from warm-up to opposition and game play

Minutes 0–15: prepare and introduce

Start with a progressive ball-based warm-up, then set a directional passing game. Ask the next receiver to move off the line of the nearest defender before the pass. Use a space and pace appropriate to the players and conditions.

Minutes 15–40: add opposition

Run a build-up exercise in which two forwards can press or screen. Give the team in possession a target beyond the first line. Rehearse one cue for finding the spare player, then let the defending team vary its approach so players have to read the situation.

Minutes 40–60: transfer and review

Play a small-sided game with realistic restarts for 15 minutes. Spend the final five minutes asking which pass became available when the press committed. Record two examples for the next session. Adapt the work periods and breaks to the group.

Put it into practice

Start with enough room for players to succeed occasionally. Reduce the space only when they can recognise the spare player. When the final game begins, use the same cue and let players solve the rest of the picture themselves.

A 60-Minute Football Tactics Training Session

Minutes 0–15: prepare and introduce

Minutes 15–40: add opposition

Minutes 40–60: transfer and review

Put it into practice

Further reading