CLUBHOUSE / FALL 2026
GAME MODEL & PRACTICE

Attack space or engage

Club game model · 11v11 / 4-3-3

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TEAM PRINCIPLEFinish the counterattackSUB-PRINCIPLE

Attack space or engage

Carry into space or commit the defender when it creates an advantage.

Required player actions

  • The carrier drives into free space until a defender commits.
  • 9 offers a route beyond the engaging defender.
  • The supporting winger adjusts to the carrier’s chosen direction.
COACHING QUESTION

Should you carry, combine or take on the defender?

View example practices
Creating & scoringAttacking half
12453681079111GK2RB4RCB5LCB3LB6DM8RCM10LCM7RW9ST11LWNORTHBRIDGE ATTACKS ↑ · 1-4-3-3
Blue wash: Attacking half · Gold box: The counterattack’s finishing options · 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

Attack space or engage

22 players · 11v11 · 4-3-3

Carry until the defender decides

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. Begin with 8 receiving a forward pass after a regain and space ahead.

Practice task

8 carries toward the recovering back line, then passes, combines or continues according to the defender’s response. 7 and 9 offer distinct routes around the engagement.

What to observe

The carry commits a defender or exploits space before the next action.

Progression

Allow the opposition pivot to recover from either side of the carrier.

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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.