CLUBHOUSE / FALL 2026
GAME MODEL & PRACTICE

Keep possession and build

Club game model · 11v11 / 4-3-3

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TEAM PRINCIPLESecure the ballSUB-PRINCIPLE

Keep possession and build

Use a sideways or backward connection when needed and restore attacking shape.

Required player actions

  • 6 recognizes when the forward counter is unavailable.
  • Centre-backs separate to reopen the first line of build-up.
  • Fullbacks and wingers restore width at different heights.
COACHING QUESTION

Is the counter still on, or should we keep it?

View example practices
Building upDefending half
12453681079111GK2RB4RCB5LCB3LB6DM8RCM10LCM7RW9ST11LWNORTHBRIDGE ATTACKS ↑ · 1-4-3-3
Blue wash: Defending half · Gold box: Support around the regain · 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

Keep possession and build

22 players · 11v11 · 4-3-3

Counter closed: rebuild

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 with a midfield regain while the opposition has already recovered behind the ball.

Practice task

6 checks forward, then connects through a centre-back or goalkeeper when needed. Restore the 4-3-3 attacking distances and build against the reorganized opponent.

What to observe

Players retain the regain and rebuild useful width and support without rushing a forward pass.

Progression

Alternate compact opposition recovery with a late recovery so the team must choose between countering and rebuilding.

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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. 36, 38. Definitions are summarized; specific player responsibilities, coaching questions and practice examples are club applications. Not an official U.S. Soccer product or endorsement.