Field setup
Players4–6 players
EquipmentOne soccer ball · Eight goal cones · Field cones or markers
HedgehogsU8 Soccer← All practice drills
Core Drill
Four Goals
A small-sided game with two scoring options at each end that teaches players to recognize and use space.
- Width
- Support
- Dribbling
- Passing
- Decision making
Same setup, new problem
Variations
Keep the activity familiar. Change one constraint to bring out the skill you want to coach.
01
Focus
Dribbling
Recognize open space and carry the ball into it.
What changes
- Score by dribbling through either goal.
02
Focus
Passing
See and connect with a teammate in space.
What changes
- Score by passing through a goal to a teammate.
03
Focus
Find Space
Attack away from pressure.
What changes
- Use normal scoring.
- Award a bonus for attacking the less-crowded side.
Coaching cues
“Find the space.”04
Focus
Width
Stretch the field and create space in the middle.
What changes
- Move the goals wider toward the sidelines.
Coaching cues
“Make the field big.”05
Focus
Switch
Move the ball from a crowded side to an open side.
What changes
- Award a bonus if the team switches sides before scoring.
06
Focus
Free Decision
Let players choose the best way to score.
What changes
- Players may pass or dribble through either goal.