Combination Shooting Drills

Attackers Defenders Neutral Goalkeeper Pass Run Dribble Shot

This combination shooting drill gives U11 to U16 soccer players a framework for building up to a strike, with two small passing triangles feeding first-time finishes at goal. Each series links three quick passes into a lay-off at the top of the box, so players practice both the combination and the shot that ends it. The pattern menu is endless, which makes this a setup you can return to all season without it going stale.

This drill pairs well with others in the shooting category, and you can find age-matched sessions under U14 drills.

Setup

• Set up two small cone triangles about 15 yards apart, each roughly 5 yards outside the penalty box.
• Adjust the distance from goal to match the age and power of your players.
• Place a player on each cone of both triangles.
• Line the remaining players up just outside the triangle areas.
• Stock each triangle with a large supply of balls.

How It Works

1. Series 1: Player 1 passes to Player 2, and Player 2 passes on to Player 3.
2. Player 3 lays the ball into space near the top of the penalty box.
3. Player 1 runs onto it and hits a first-time shot on goal.
4. Series 2: Player 1 passes to Player 2, Player 2 finds Player 3, and Player 3 plays it back to Player 1.
5. Player 1 then slips the ball into space for Player 3, who finishes first time.
6. Rotate players through the cones and the waiting line after each rep.

Coaching Points

• Combinations should run one touch, with every pass played to feet.
• Movement between passes must stay fluid and balanced; no lunging or reaching.
• The lay-off decides the shot: roll it into space at a pace the shooter can attack.
• Coach strike mechanics: plant foot beside the ball, head steady, follow through at the target.
• Every shot should test the goal; hitting the target is the baseline.

Variations

• Mirror the pattern on the other triangle so players finish with both feet.
• Add a goalkeeper to turn clean strikes into real finishing practice.
• Invent new combinations each week; any three-pass pattern into a lay-off works.