A channel narrows the attacker’s options. They can only go forward or stop. The defender’s job is to force them one way and win the ball. This teaches directional defense.
What you need: 1 soccer ball, 2 kids, 4 cones marking a channel 8 feet wide and 20 feet long.
Setup: Attacker starts at one end with the ball. Defender lines up 5 feet away.
How to run it:
- Using Drop, Show, Stay, Win cue: defender drops back foot, shows one direction (left or right), stays patient, wins the ball.
- Attacker dribbles toward the defender using Touch, Look, Push, Go.
- Defender forces the attacker toward one cone wall.
- When the attacker commits to that direction, defender pokes the ball away.
- 4 attempts per player, then switch.
What to watch: Does the defender actually show a direction? Or just close the attacker down randomly?
If they’re struggling: Widen the channel to 10 feet. More space.
If they’ve got it: Narrow it to 6 feet. Less room to maneuver.