2v1 Progression — Learning the Height of Support (Works for U-9)

• In a 2v1 situation as in the diagram, the two attackers get past the one defender and pass to one of the players waiting ahead.
• The player who made the pass becomes the defender, and 2v1 starts again; repeat.
• The player who didn't make the pass doesn't play on and goes to the back of the line.
• If the defender wins the ball, they pass to the group behind.
• Until the pass is played, the attackers may win the ball back.

RULES: none in particular

1. When the ball carrier is not under pressure, the supporting player takes a position beyond the opponent's line.
2. When the ball carrier is under pressure, the supporting player drops to secure a passing lane, then gets past the defender with an oriented control.
3. If the defender cuts the dribbling lane, the ball carrier prioritizes the pass.
4. If the defender cuts the passing lane, get past with a carrying dribble (conducción) — so it doesn't become a duel of dribbling to beat the defender (regate).
5. When passing, the ball carrier draws the defender in.
6. The ball carrier feints: pretend to pass and dribble, or pretend to dribble and pass.

(* Depending on age and level, there are many other key factors besides these. Think about them yourselves.)

• Even with older players (upper primary), it can be an effective practice if you adapt it, e.g. by narrowing the space or setting an offside line
• If the defender presses quickly once they pass to a waiting player, intensity goes up and you can also train quick decisions under a high press
• Unless you develop this into 3v2 and similar, players won't acquire tactics and technique they can actually use in matches