4v3 Attack vs. Defense
Attackers Defenders Neutral Goalkeeper Pass Run Dribble Shot
4v3 Attack vs. Defense is a soccer attacking drill for U10–U16 that teaches players to punish a numerical advantage. Four attackers face three defenders and a goalkeeper, so there is always a free man - the job is finding him fast and finishing the move with a shot. Defenders get equally valuable reps covering a one-player-down situation.
Browse the full attacking drills library for more like this, or explore every soccer drill for U13 players.
Setup
- Mark a 30×30 yard grid with one end open to a full goal.
- Put a goalkeeper in the goal and pick three defenders in alternate jerseys.
- The four attackers start with the ball at the far end of the grid.
- The coach stands to the side as an outlet for the defenders.
How It Works
- Attackers move the ball to find the spare player and gaps in the back three, then finish with a shot.
- Defenders work to delay the attack, stay compact, and keep the ball in front of them.
- If the defenders win the ball, they end the attack by completing a pass to the coach.
- The coach returns the ball to the attackers and a new attack builds immediately.
Coaching Points
- Attackers: switch the point of attack quickly - a tilted defense is a beatable defense.
- Play fast physically (one and two touches) and mentally (know your next pass before the ball arrives).
- Attack the goal at the right moment; probing forever lets the defense recover.
- Defenders: pressure early, deny space in behind, and funnel play in front of you.
Variations
- Chances too rare? Go 5v3 or 4v2 to widen the advantage.
- Chances too easy? Go 4v4 or add a recovering defender who sprints in after the first pass.
- Give attackers a 10-second shot clock to force decisive play.