Trapping and Controlling the Ball While Facing a Defender

Attackers Defenders Neutral Goalkeeper Pass Run Dribble Shot

Controlling a bouncing ball is hard enough - doing it with a defender sprinting at you is the real test. This soccer receiving drill for U10–U16 players trains foot, thigh, and chest control under live pressure, then flows straight into a 2v1 so players learn to turn a good first touch into a forward attack.

Want more? See all our soccer receiving drills or jump to U13 soccer drills for this age group.

Setup

• Mark a grid about 20×30 yards for each group of 3.
• Player 1 starts on one end line with the ball.
• Players 2 and 3 stand on the opposite end line.

How It Works

1. Player 1 serves the ball to Player 2, then sprints after the pass to defend.
2. Player 2 checks toward the serve, takes a first touch away from the pressure, and attacks the line Player 1 started from.
3. Player 2 can combine with Player 3 to create a 2v1 against Player 1.
4. The attackers score by stopping the ball on the target end line.
5. Rotate roles, and vary the serves so players control with feet, thigh, and chest.

Coaching Points

• First touch goes into space, away from the advancing defender.
• Control quickly and move forward - no standing still after the trap.
• The player in possession must decide fast: dribble past the defender or use the 2v1 pass.
• Check the trapping technique itself - cushioned surface, body behind the ball.

Variations

• Add a second defender 5–7 yards behind Players 2 and 3 who makes a recovery run to get goal-side, pressuring the attackers from behind.
• Serve only aerial balls to isolate chest and thigh control.
• Limit the receiver to two touches before releasing the ball.