Criss Cross Dribbling Game
Attackers Defenders Neutral Goalkeeper Pass Run Dribble Shot
The Criss Cross Dribbling Game is a soccer dribbling drill for U5–U9 players that makes heads-up dribbling non-negotiable: teams race across the grid straight into oncoming traffic. Players who stare at the ball quickly learn why they need to look up - so coach that habit before you crank up the chaos.
This drill pairs well with others in the dribbling category, and you can find age-matched sessions under U7 drills.
Setup
- Mark a large 30×30 yard grid, then section off a 7×7 yard box in each corner.
- Split the group into four teams of 3–6 players, one team per corner box, with a different bib color for each team.
- Every player has a ball.
- Number the teams 1 through 4.
How It Works
- The coach calls out two team numbers - those teams must switch boxes.
- Players dribble across the big grid to their opponents' box as fast as they can and stop their ball dead inside it.
- The first team with every player in the new box and every ball completely stopped wins a point.
- Start with just two teams switching at a time so players learn to handle the traffic.
Coaching Points
- Heads up at all times - players are dribbling into oncoming traffic and must see who is coming.
- Ball close: small touches keep control in a crowd.
- Once control is solid, push for more speed on the crossing.
Variations
- Call all four teams at once, switching diagonally, so everyone meets in the middle. Save this for when the group is ready.
- Restrict players to their weaker foot.
- Require a specific move (cut, turn, step-over) somewhere during the crossing.