CLUBHOUSE / FALL 2026
GAME MODEL & PRACTICE

Advance the defensive line

Club game model · 11v11 / 4-3-3

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TEAM PRINCIPLETake countermeasuresSUB-PRINCIPLE

Advance the defensive line

Move up with the attack while reading pressure and threats behind.

Required player actions

  • Centre-backs advance behind the counter while tracking the striker.
  • The far fullback narrows before moving up.
  • 1 adjusts the starting position to cover space behind the line.
COACHING QUESTION

Who keeps us compact if possession changes again?

View example practices
Creating & scoringAttacking half
12453681079111GK2RB4RCB5LCB3LB6DM8RCM10LCM7RW9ST11LWNORTHBRIDGE ATTACKS ↑ · 1-4-3-3
Blue wash: Attacking half · Gold box: Balance behind the counterattack · Gold rings: key roles

Blue plays toward the top goal. The shaded area identifies the phase; supporting roles may sit outside it. All 22 players retain their 4-3-3 positions.

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EXAMPLE PRACTICES

Advance the defensive line

22 players · 11v11 · 4-3-3

Move the back line with the counter

12453681079111GK2RB4RCB5LCB3LB6DM8RCM10LCM7RW9ST11LWNORTHBRIDGE ATTACKS ↑ · 1-4-3-3
Starting picture · Blue: Northbridge · Sand: opposition · Gold rings: focus players · White dot: ball

A starting picture for the practice, with the focus players highlighted. Both teams keep their 4-3-3 roles; movement and decisions develop through live play.

Organization

22 players, two 4-3-3 teams, a full-size pitch and two goals. Start from a central regain with 6 releasing 8 into midfield space.

Practice task

The back four advance as the attack travels, reading pressure on the ball and opposition runners. On any new loss, play continues so their covering positions are tested.

What to observe

The defensive line shortens the team without leaving an unprotected direct run behind.

Progression

Allow the opposition striker to alternate checking short and threatening depth.

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Club-authored practice examples applying this sub-principle. Adapt pitch dimensions, bout lengths and challenge to the players; the source framework is for U13-U14.

Related sub-principles

Adapted from the supplied U.S. Soccer Player Development Framework · U13-U14 Game Model and Learning Plan, pp. 37, 38. Definitions are summarized; specific player responsibilities, coaching questions and practice examples are club applications. Not an official U.S. Soccer product or endorsement.