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9v9•U13•In Possession

Who protects the counter after our attacking corner?

Asked by AaronInKingston
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We want enough players attacking the box to create a threat, but one clearance can leave us exposed. Rather than fixing two players on halfway, how would you help U13s recognise the correct balance based on the opposition and the delivery?

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@CoachMattH

UEFA B Coach

9v9 tactical • player development

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I would organise the corner around three moments: the delivery, the second ball and the counter if possession is lost. You need enough players attacking the box to create a threat, but at least two players should be positioned to delay or control the first clearance. Their exact positions depend on the opponent's highest players and the type of delivery. The goalkeeper can hold a higher starting position when it is safe, which reduces the space behind the covering players. Give one reference: if the ball is cleared now, who can affect the first pass? Do not fix two children on halfway for the whole season. At U13, the players can adjust the balance based on the opposition, scoreline and corner plan. Good attacking organisation includes thinking about what happens if the attack does not succeed. It matters because a higher goalkeeper can collect or clear some of the space behind the covering players. Their position still depends on the opponent's pace, the delivery and pressure on any clearance. Coach the goalkeeper to stay connected, not to stand on a fixed line for every corner.

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