Jurgen Klopp’s

Attacking Tactics
Tactical Analysis and
Sessions from Borussia
Dortmund’s 4-2-3-1
WRITTEN BY
ATHANASIOS TERZIS

PUBLISHED BY
 Jurgen Klopp’s
Attacking Tactics
Tactical Analysis and
Sessions from Borussia
Dortmund’s 4-2-3-1
First Published January 2015 by SoccerTutor.com
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Author
Athanasios Terzis © 2015

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MEET THE AUTHOR - ATHANASIOS TERZIS
yy UEFA ‘B’ Coaching licence
yy M.S.C. in coaching and conditioning

I played for several teams in the Greek professional training sessions in this book and the Jurgen Klopp’s
leagues. At the age of 29 I stopped playing and Defending Tactics book (other part of this book set).
focused on studying football coaching. I have been
head coach of several semi-pro football teams in The main reason I have decided to study Borussia
Greece and worked as a technical director in the Dortmund is because they are a very exciting team to
Academies of DOXA Dramas (Greek football league, watch. They play at a high tempo with a good style
2nd division). and fluidity, often by moving many of their players
in front of the ball with one of their full backs always
I wrote and published two books “4-3-3 the application ready to overlap and take part in the attack.
of the system” and “4-4-2 with diamond in midfield, the
application of the system” in Greek language. I then Their key attacking strengths are the creation and
decided to proceed in something more specific so exploitation of the free space, their quick passing
coaches would have an idea of how top teams apply combinations (simple and complex) in the final third
the same systems. I published three further books with and fast counter attacks.
SoccerTutor.com Ltd which have become extremely
During the attacking phase, they tried to dictate the
successful and sold thousands worldwide:
tempo not by only retaining possession, but by using
1. FC Barcelona: A Tactical Analysis direct play in order to have as many attempts on goal
2. Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid: A Tactical Analysis as possible and by regaining possession immediately
after losing it.
3. FC Barcelona Training Sessions - 160 Practices from
34 Tactical Situations

Analysing games tactically is a great love and strength

Athanasios Terzis
of mine. I think teams have success only when they
prepare well tactically. I have watched Borussia
Dortmund in many of their league and Champions
league matches for the last few years and all of them
during the 2013-2014 season. Over 1000 hours of
research has enabled me to present a full tactical
blueprint of Borussia Dortmund and supporting

3
©SoccerTutor.com Jurgen Klopp’s Attacking Tactics
CONTENTS
HOW THE TACTICAL ANALYSIS WAS PRODUCED FOR THIS BOOK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
JURGEN KLOPP AND BORUSSIA DORTMUND. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
BORUSSIA DORTMUND’S PLAYERS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
COACHING FORMAT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
CHAPTER 1: PLAYER ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Role of the Centre Forward. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Role of the Attacking Midfielders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Role of the Defensive Midfielders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Role of the Full Backs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Role of the Centre Backs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
CHAPTER 2: PLAYERS WHO TAKE PART DURING AN ATTACK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Players Who Take Part During An Attack Through The Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Players Who Take Part During An Attack On The Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
CHAPTER 3: RETAINING BALANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Fluidity And Balance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Retaining Balance During An Attack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Retaining Balance In The Midfield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
CHAPTER 4: FORMATIONS AND THE THREE STAGES OF ATTACK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Formations With 2 Players At The Back. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Formations With 3 Players At The Back. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Choosing The Appropriate Formation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
The Three Stages Of Attack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
The First Stage Of Attack Against 2 Passive Forwards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
The First Stage Of Attack Against 2 Aggressive Forwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Moving Towards Available Passing Lanes On The Side To Create Passing Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Moving Towards Available Passing Lanes In The Centre To Create Passing Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
The Second Stage Of Attack - Creating Scoring Chances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
CHAPTER 5: ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATIONS & SESSIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Attacking Tactical Situation 1: Creating Space On The Flank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Analysis Of Creating Space. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Wing Play: Creating Space On The Flank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Tactical Analysis: Wingers Creating Space On The Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Session For This Tactical Situation (6 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
1. Creating Space On the Flank with Combination Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
2. Building Up Play Under Pressure from 2 Forwards, Creating and Exploting Space on the Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
3. Building Up Play Under Pressure from 2 Forwards, Creating and Exploting Space on the Flank (2). . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
4. Building Up Play Under Pressure from 3 Forwards, Creating and Exploting Space on the Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
5. Building Up Play Under Pressure, Creating Space on the Flank and Crossing in a Dynamic Zonal Practice. . . . . . 69
6. Building Up Play Under Pressure, Creating Space on the Flank and Crossing in an 11 v 11
Dynamic Zonal Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

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Attacking Tactical Situation 2: The Centre Forward Creating Space in the Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Centre Forward Play: Creating Space In The Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Tactical Analysis: The Centre Forward Creating Space In The Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
1. The Forward Dropping Deep to Create Space in Behind with Combination Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
2. Building Up Play with the Forward Dropping Deep to Create Space in Behind for the No.10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
3. Building Up Play with the Forward Dropping Deep to Create Space in Behind for the Winger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
4. The Forward Dropping Deep to Create Space in Behind in a 10 v 7 Zonal Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
The Central Attacking Midfielder (No.10) Creating Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Attacking Tactical Situation 3: Getting Free of Marking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Creating And Exploting Space On The Flank By The Same Player. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Tactical Analysis: Creating And Exploting Space On The Flank By The Same Player. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Analysis Of Getting Free Of Marking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Getting Free Of Marking With An Up And Down Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking With An Up And Down Movement (Winger). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking With An Up And Down Movement (Centre Forward). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Getting Free Of Marking By Dropping Deep. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking By Dropping Deep (Winger). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking By Dropping Deep (Centre Forward). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
1. Getting Free of Marking With an Up and Down Movement To Attack Forward Quickly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
2. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking With an Up and Down Movement and Passing in Behind the Defence. . . 94
3. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking With a Dropping Back Movement and Passing in Behind the Defence. . . 96
4. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking and Passing in Behind the Defence in a Dynamic Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
5. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking and Passing in Behind the Defence in a Dynamic Game (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Attacking Tactical Situation 4: Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage of Attack
with Passing Combinations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Creating Space In The 2nd Stage And Exploiting It With Passing Combinations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Creating Space In The 2nd Stage With Simple Passing Combinations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Tactical Analysis: Creating Space In The 2nd Stage And Exploiting It With A Simple Passing Combination. . . . . . . 103
Tactical Analysis: Creating Space In The 2nd Stage And Exploiting It With A Complex Passing Combination. . . . 104
Tactical Analysis: Creating Space In The Centre And Exploiting It With A Complex Passing Combination. . . . . . . . 105
Tactical Analysis: Creating And Exploiting Space Near The Sidelines In The 2nd Stage Of Attack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
1. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing Combination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
2. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing Combination in a Dynamic Zonal Practice. . . . . . . . . . . 110
3. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing Combination in a Dynamic Zonal Practice (2). . . . . . . . 112
4. Creating and Exploiting Space on the Flanks with a Complex Passing Combination in a Dynamic Zonal SSG. 114
5. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing Combination in a Dynamic Zonal 11 v 11 Game . . . . . 115
Attacking Tactical Situation 5: Overloading on the Flank with The Centre Back or Defensive Midfielder. . 116
Analysis Of Overloading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Overloading: The Centre Back Or Defensive Midfielder Move Forward With The Ball And Towards The Flank. . . . 118
Tactical Analysis: The Centre Back Or Defensive Midfielder Moves Forward
With The Ball And Towards The Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

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Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
1. Running with the Ball Out From the Back and Creating a Numerical Advantage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
2. Creating a Numerical Advantage on the Flank in a 3 v 2 Exercise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
3. Creating a Numerical Advantage on the Flank (3 v 2) in an 8 v 8 Dynamic Small Sided Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
4. Creating a Numerical Advantage on the Flank (3 v 2) in an 11 v 11 Game with Side Zones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Attacking Tactical Situation 6: Overloading on the Flank or in the Centre with a
Forward Moving to Receive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Overloading On The Flank Or In The Centre With The ‘No.10’ Moving To Receive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Tactical Analysis: Overloading On The Flank Or In The Centre With The No.10 Moving To Receive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Tactical Analysis: Overloading On The Flank Or In The Centre With The No.9 Moving To Receive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
1. Creating a Numerical Advantage On the Flank with a Forward Moving to Receive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
2. Overloading - Forward Moving to Receive Towards the Flank in a Functional Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
3. Overloading on the Flank with a Forward Moving to Receive in a Dynamic Zonal Small Sided Game. . . . . . . . . 136
4. Overloading on the Flank with a Forward Moving to Receive in an 11 v 11 Zonal Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Attacking Tactical Situation 7: Passing Combination: Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Analysis Of Passing Combinations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
The Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Tactical Analysis: The Winger And The ‘No.10’ Use A Vertical Or Diagonal + Square Pass Combination. . . . . . . . . . . 143
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
1. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Attacking Combination Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
2. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combination in a 5 Zone Possession Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
3. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combination and Decision Making Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
4. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combinations and Finishing in a 4 Zone 11 v 11 Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Attacking Tactical Situation 8: The Lay-Off Passing Combination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
The Lay-Off Combination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Tactical Analysis: The Lay-Off Combination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
1. Attacking Combination Play with a Lay-Off Pass. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
2. Passing Through the Centre with a Lay-Off Passing Combination in a 6 (+4) v 6 End to End Possession Game.153
3. Building Up Play Under Pressure and Passing Through the Centre with a Lay-Off Passing Combination . . . . . . 154
4. Passing Through the Centre with a Lay-Off Passing Combination in an 11 v 11 Dynamic Zonal SSG . . . . . . . . . . 155
Attacking Tactical Situation 9: Passing Combination with a Third Man Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Passing Combination With A Third Man Run. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Tactical Analysis: Passing Combination With A Third Man Run. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
1. Passing Combination with a Third Man Run. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
2. Passing Combination with a Third Man Run in a 6 (+5) v 6 End to End Possession Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
3. Building Up Play Under Pressure, Passing Combination with a Third Man Run and Finishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
4. Passing Combination with a Third Man Run and Finishing in an 11 v 11 Dynamic Zonal Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
Attacking Tactical Situation 10: Direct Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Analysis Of Direct Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Long Pass To The Centre Forward Who Directs It Towards An Attacking Midfielder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

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The Team’s Reaction To The Long Pass Towards The Centre Forward (Second Ball). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Tactical Analysis: The Team’s Reaction To The Long Pass Towards The Centre Forward (Second Ball). . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
1. The Centre Forward Directing a Long Pass to the Forward Running Attacking Midfielder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
2. The Centre Forward Directing a Long Pass to the Forward Running Attacking Midfielder (2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
3. Long Passes and Timing Forward Runs in a 5 Zone 7 (+2) v 7 Small Sided Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
4. Long Passes and Timing Forward Runs in a 4 Zone 11 v 11 Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
Attacking Tactical Situation 11: Long Passes in Behind the Defence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176
Long Passes In Behind The Defence (From The Centre). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
Tactical Analysis: Long Pass In Behind The Defence (From The Centre). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
1. Direct Play: Long Diagonal Pass in Behind the Defence on the Blind Side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
2. Building Up Under Pressure + Long Diagonal Pass in Behind the Defence on the Blind Side of the Defender. 180
3. Building Up Under Pressure + Long Diagonal Pass in Behind the Defence
on the Blind Side of the Defender (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
4. Long Diagonal Pass in Behind the Defence on the Blind Side of the Defender in a 9 v 7 Dynamic Game. . . . . . 182
Long Passes In Behind The Defence (From The Sidelines). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Tactical Analysis: Long Passes In Behind The Defence (From The Sidelines) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
Attacking Tactical Situation 12: Switching Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
Analysis Of Switching Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
Tactical Analysis: Switching Play - The Full Back Providing Width & The Winger Inside. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
Session For This Tactical Situation (7 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
1. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back and the Winger in a Central Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
2. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back and the Winger in a Central Position (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
3. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back in a 7 v 2 (+2 Mannequins) Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
4. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back in a 7 v 2 (+2 Mannequins) Practice (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
5. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back in a 7 v 4 Practice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
6. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back in a 4 Zone 11 v 10 Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
7. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back in a 6 Zone 11 v 11 Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With The Full Back Wide And The Winger In A Deep Position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With The Full Back Wide And The Winger In An Advanced Position. . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With The Winger Providing The Width. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With Both The Full Back And Winger Providing Width. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
CHAPTER 6: THE TRANSITION FROM DEFENCE TO ATTACK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
The Transition From Defence To Attack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1: Direct Positive Transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Available Spaces During The Positive Transition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Exploiting The Available Spaces (The Centre Forward Is The First Defender). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Tactical Analysis: Direct Positive Transition (Centre Forward On Strong Side). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Exploiting The Available Spaces (The No.10 Is The First Defender). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Tactical Analysis: Direct Positive Transition (No.10 On The Strong Side). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
1. Defensive Movements and Quick Counter Attack on the Flank with the Centre Forward on the Strong Side. . 215
2. Collective Defensive Movements, Press High and Quick Counter Attack on the Flank in an 8 v 4 Practice. . . . . 217

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3. Collective Defensive Movements, Press High and Quick Counter Attacks in an 8 v 8 Transition Game. . . . . . . . . 218
4. Winning the Ball High Up and Quick Counter Attacks in a 3 Zone 9 v 9 (+GK) Dynamic Transition Game. . . . . . 219
5. Winning the Ball High Up and Quick Counter Attacks in a 3 Zone 11 v 11 Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Positive Transition Tactical Situation 2: Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Forward Pass (Centre Forward Is On The Strong Side). . . . . . 222
Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Forward Pass (The No.10 Is On The Strong Side) . . . . . . . . . . . 223
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
1. Moving to Receive in the Passing Lanes: Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
2. Moving to Receive in the Passing Lanes: Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass
in a 6 v 6 (+GK) Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
3. Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass in a 3 Zone Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
4. Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass in a 9 v 9 (+GK) Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
5. Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass in an 11 v 11 Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Positive Transition Tactical Situation 3: Indirect Positive Transition with a Switch of Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Switch Of Play (The Centre Forward On The Strong Side). . . 232
Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Switch Of Play (The No.10 On The Strong Side) . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
1. Defensive Movements and Quick Counter Attack with a Switch of Play to the Full Back on the Weak Side. . . . 234
2. Defensive Movements and Quick Counter Attack with a Switch of Play to the Full Back in an 8 v 4 Practice. . . 235
3. Indirect Positive Transition with Switch of Play in an 8 v 8 Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236
4. Indirect Positive Transition with Switch of Play in a 9 v 9 (+GK) Dynamic Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237
5. Indirect Positive Transition with Switch of Play in a 6 Zone 11 v 11 Dynamic Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238
Positive Transition Tactical Situation 4: Direct Positive Transition
(Both the Centre Forward & the No.10 on the Strong Side). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
Exploiting The Available Spaces (Both The Centre Forward And The No.10 On The Strong Side) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
Tactical Analysis: Direct Positive Transition (Both The Centre Forward And The No.10 On The Strong Side). . . . . . 241
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244
1. Direct Positive Transition with Both the Centre Forward and No.10 to Attack on the Flanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244
2. Direct Positive Transition with Both the Centre Forward and No.10 on the Flank in an 8 v 6 (+GK) Practice. . . . 245
3. Direct Positive Transition to Create a 2 v 1 Situation on the Flank in a Dynamic Zone Play Transition Game. . . 246
4. Direct Positive Transition to Create a 2 v 1 Situation on the Flank in a 9 v 9 (+GK) 6 Zone Transition Game. . . . 247
5. Direct Positive Transition to Create a 2 v 1 Situation on the Flank in an 11 v 11
Dynamic 6 Zone Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248
Positive Transition Tactical Situation 5: Indirect Positive Transition
(Both the Centre Forward and the No.10 on the Strong Side). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249
Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Forward Pass
(Both The Centre Forward & No.10 On The Strong Side). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250
Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Switch Of Play
(Both The Centre Forward & No.10 On Strong Side). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253

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HOW THE TACTICAL ANALYSIS WAS

PRODUCED FOR THIS BOOK

Athanasios Terzis has a great skill of analysing games tactically and watched every
Borussia Dortmund game in the 2013-14 season. This book is made up of over 1000
hours of extensive research and analysis of Jurgen Klopp’s side.

The Steps of Research and Analysis

1. Terzis watched the games, observing Borussia Dortmund’s patterns of play and making notes.
2. Once the same phase of play occurred a number of times (at least 10) the tactics would be decoded and more
detailed notes were written down, often separated according to the phases of the game and the various
different tactical situations.
3. The positioning of each player on the pitch is studied in great detail, including their body shape.
4. Each individual movement with or without the ball was also recorded in detail.
5. Once all conceivable phases of play had been studied and analysed, SoccerTutor.com’s Tactics Manager
Software was used to create all of the diagrams in this book.
6. Finally, the key aspects of Borussia Dortmund’s tactics were assessed and are explained clearly with notes and
detailed descriptions.

How the Tactical Analysis is Used to Create Full Training Sessions

1. Athanasios Terzis is a UEFA ‘B’ coach and has provided a full and extensive analysis of Jurgen Klopp’s Borussia
Dortmund team, as explained above.
2. This analysis has been divided into specific tactical situations and has been used to create 16 Full Sessions (75
practices) including:
yy Creating Space on the Flank
yy Getting Free of Marking
yy Switching Play
yy Direct Positive Transition
yy Indirect Positive Transition with a Switch of Play

3. Have you got the Defending part of this Book Set?

The full analysis and training sessions are included for the Defensive Phase and the Transition from Attack to
Defence.

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JURGEN KLOPP AND BORUSSIA

DORTMUND
Borussia Dortmund appointed Jurgen Klopp as the club’s manager in May 2008 after disappointedly finishing
in 13th place in the 2007-08 Bundesliga season. Dortmund won their first title under Klopp’s management
when they won the Super Cup against champions Bayern Munich in 2008. During Klopp’s first season (2008-09)
Borussia Dortmund finished in 6th place in the Bundesliga and 5th place in the next season.

During the 2010-11 season, Klopp led Dortmund to their first league title since 2002. Klopp then led his team to
the club’s first ever double (league title and German cup) in the 2011-12 season. Dortmund managed to win this
championship with 81 points which set a new Bundesliga record at the time.

In the 2012-13 season, Dortmund reached the Champions League final against Bayern Munich, but they were
defeated with a late goal from Arjen Robben. In both 2013 and 2014, Dortmund finished in second place in the
Bundesliga and won the Super Cup by beating Bayern Munich twice, 4-2 and 2-0 respectively.

Klopp has managed to bring Borussia Dortmund back to not only amongst the top clubs in Germany, but also as
one of the most fascinating and successful clubs in Europe.

JURGEN KLOPP
Coaching Roles & Honours

yy Mainz 05 Head Coach (2001-2008)

yy Borussia Dortmund Head Coach (2008 - Present)
yy Bundesliga: 2011, 2012
yy DFB-Pokal (German Cup): 2012
yy DFL-Supercup: 2013, 2014
yy UEFA Champions League runner–up: 2013
Individual Awards
yy German Football Manager of the Year: 2011, 2012
yy FIFA World Coach of the Year runner up: 2013

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BORUSSIA DORTMUND’S PLAYERS

(4-2-3-1 FORMATION)

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COACHING FORMAT

1. Tactical Situations and Analysis.

2. Full Session for the Tactical Situation.
yy Technical / Functional Unopposed Practices
yy Tactical Opposed Practices
yy Restrictions, Progressions, Variations & Coaching Points (if applicable)

KEY

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Player Roles And Responsibilities

CHAPTER 1
PLAYER ROLES AND
RESPONSIBILITIES
Role of the Centre Forward. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Role of the Attacking Midfielders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Role of the Defensive Midfielders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Role of the Full Backs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Role of the Centre Backs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

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Chapter 1

Role of the Centre Forward

Lewandowski is a modern centre forward. He can play the role of a typical centre forward as well as in the false 9
role. He is very strong in the air and wins the majority of the aerial battles, but he is also a very technically skilled
and fast player.

Furthermore he has a fantastic scoring ability. He mainly occupied the central part of the attack, but due to his
mobility without the ball he could move anywhere on the pitch. He also used to drop deeper into the attacking
midfielders’ area towards the available passing lanes to provide a passing option to the man in possession.
These movements enabled him to either create space for his teammates or get free of marking, receive and turn
towards the opposition’s goal.

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Player Roles And Responsibilities

Role of the Attacking Midfielders

The three attacking midfielders were two wingers (left and right) and one central attacking midfielder which we
will refer to as the No.10 throughout the book.

During the attacking phase against an opponent who defended within the middle third, Borussia Dortmund’s
attacking midfielders usually occupied the central part of the pitch (blue area on diagram). They used to take up
positions between the lines of the opposition. With this positioning, all three players were close to entering the
penalty area.

Furthermore, receiving the ball within this central area could easily lead to a successful final/killer pass. In cases
when one of the attacking midfielders dropped back or shifted towards the sideline, either the centre forward or
one of the defensive midfielders tried to fill the gap.

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Chapter 1

Role of the Defensive Midfielders

Dortmund play with 2 defensive midfielders with one more attacking minded than the other. Bender and Kehl
had a more defensive role than Sahin and Gundogan and in some cases they dropped into deeper positions.
Klopp preferred to start with one defensive minded and one more attack minded.

The two defensive midfielders together with the centre backs were the players who made the transition from the
first stage of building up play to the second by passing the ball towards the players in advanced positions. These
two players tried to retain the team’s balance in midfield by moving into advanced positions when one of the
attacking midfielders dropped deeper or towards the sidelines.

Finally, one of them dropped (according to the tactical situation) back into a centre back’s position to form a
three man defence and facilitate the building up from the back. Their positioning was not prearranged in all of
the matches, so Bender for example, could play either on the left or the right. This depended on who his partner
was. The defensive midfielders could switch positions during the matches.

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Player Roles And Responsibilities

Role of the Full Backs

Borussia Dortmund usually attacked with
the participation of one of the full backs
who joined the three attacking midfielders
and the centre forward. The other one
stayed in a balanced position, ready either
to drop back and provide support to
the defenders or move further forward
to participate in the attack according to
the tactical situation. As the attacking
midfielders stayed in central positions,
width was created mainly by the full backs.

Role of the Centre Backs

The two centre backs did not have the
same characteristics. Hummels was more
technically skilled than Subotic and
Sokratis Papastathopoulos.

Hummels could easily move with the ball

into more advanced positions and obtain
forward passes with more accuracy than
his teammates.

On the other hand, Subotic and Sokratis

were focused mainly on their defensive
work as they lacked the ability to move
forward with the ball. They tried short and
not risky passes. However, when they were
under pressure they played long balls
towards the centre forward.

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CHAPTER 2
PLAYERS WHO TAKE PART
DURING AN ATTACK
Players Who Take Part During An Attack Through The Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Players Who Take Part During An Attack On The Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

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Players Who Take Part During An Attack

Players Who Take Part During An Attack

Through The Centre
When the team attacked through the centre, there were normally five or six players who moved into attacking
positions. When attacking on the flank, there were normally four or five players. The number of players who
participated in the attack depended on the number of players who stayed at the back. Furthermore, the number
of players who stayed at the back depended on the specific tactical situation.

Option 1: Attacking through the Centre with Five Players (Two Man Defence)

In a typical attack through the centre using two players at the back, the man in possession would have four
options to pass the ball forward. The full back on the left (Schmelzer) overlaps while the other one (Piszczek) is in
a balanced position, ready to either move forward or to drop back. One of the defensive midfielders is in a deeper
position and provides support to the defenders.

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Chapter 2

Option 2: Attacking through the Centre with Five Players (Two Man Defence)

Another option of attacking through

the centre is presented here. This
time the weak side’s full back moves
into an advanced position.

Option 3: Attacking through the Centre with Six Players (Three Man Defence)

In a typical attack through the centre

when using three players at the back
(Bender has dropped back), both full
backs could take part in the attack so
the man in possession would have
five options to make a forward pass.

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Players Who Take Part During An Attack

Players Who Take Part During An Attack On

The Flank
Option 1: Attacking on the Flank with Five Players (Two Man Defence)

In situations when there were two

defenders at the back and one of the
full backs was in a position to make
a cross, normally all three attacking
midfielders were inside the box
together with the centre forward.

The most advanced defensive

midfielder was outside the box
providing support to the forwards,
while the other one was a couple of
yards behind providing support to
the defenders. The weak side’s full
back (29) was in a balanced position,
ready to either move forward or to
drop back and provide help to the
defenders.

Option 2: Attacking on the Flank with Four Players (Two Man Defence)

In case the player who was in a

crossing position was one of the
attacking midfielders, three players
entered the box.

The strong side’s full back (26) as

well as the most advanced centre
midfielder provided support.

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Chapter 2

Option 3: Attacking on the Flank with Five Players (Three Man Defence)

In situations when there were

three players at the back, one
of the full backs was often in a
position to make a cross.

Normally all three attacking

midfielders were inside the box
together with the centre forward,
while the weak side’s full back
(29) as well as the advanced
defensive midfielder were outside
the box.

Option 4: Attacking on the Flank with Four Players (Three Man Defence)

In case the man who tried to

make the cross was one of the
attacking midfielders, three
players entered the box.

The strong side’s full back (26)

as well as the most advanced
defensive midfielder provided
support.

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CHAPTER 3
RETAINING BALANCE

Fluidity And Balance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Retaining Balance During An Attack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Retaining Balance In The Midfield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

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Chapter 3

Fluidity And Balance

Fluidity was one of the main elements of Borussia’s Dortmund attacking play. The fluidity came mainly from the
freedom that the centre forward and the attacking midfielders had during the attacking phase, but this did not
leave the team disorganised or imbalanced.

On the contrary, certain mechanisms were triggered and balance was retained both in attack and in the midfield
line. The retaining of the balance as regards to the players’ positioning was one of the more significant elements
in Borussia Dortmund’s attacking play.

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Retaining Balance

Retaining Balance During An Attack

As already mentioned, during the attacking phase the centre forward could move away from his typical position
and move towards the sidelines or drop back into an attacking midfielder’s position. These movements triggered
reactions from the attacking midfielders and depending on the tactical situation, one of them moved into a
centre forward’s position to fill the existing gap. These reactions helped the team retain the balance as regards to
the players’ positioning.

In order for the players to be able to switch positions at the right time, there needed to be eye contact between
them. The centre forward and the No.10 used to switch positions in most cases. However, on the occasions
when the No.10 was in a deeper position and did not notice the deep movement of the centre forward in time, a
winger moved into a centre forward’s position.

Option 1: Centre Forward Drops Back to Provide Passing Option

No.9 drops back into an attacking
midfielder’s position in order to provide a
passing option, as the right winger No.16 is
in a wide position.

The No.10 moves forward to retain the

balance and exploit the potential free
space. As the right back is in a deep
position, the full back on the weak side
(29) moves into an advanced position and
creates width. They retain five players in
advanced positions ready to attack.

Option 2: Creating an Overload on One Side

The winger has a central but advanced
position. The centre forward drops deeper
and an overload is created on the right side.
Again, Mkhitaryan moves into an advanced
position.

This time it’s the full back on the strong side

(26) who creates width and is ready to take
part in the attack.

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Option 3: The No.10 Is in a Deep Position

In this situation, the No.10 is in a

deeper position.

As the centre forward (9) drops back,

the left winger (Reus) is the player
who notices the movement in time
and takes up the centre forward’s
position.

The full back on the weak side (29)

creates width and is ready to take
part in the attack.

Option 4: The Centre Forward Moves to the Weak Side

In this situation, the No.10 is in a

deep position again.

This time, the centre forward (9)

makes a curved run towards the left
flank (the weak side). Reus again
moves into the centre forward
position to retain balance.

The full back on the strong side (26)

creates width and is ready to take
part in the attack.

ASSESSMENT:
As can be seen from all the diagrams, Borussia Dortmund always tried to retain at least
five players in advanced positions ready to take part in the attack.

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Retaining Balance

Retaining Balance In The Midfield

The attacking midfielders also had the freedom of movement in advanced positions or near the sidelines, even to
drop back into a defensive midfielder’s position. However, this did not affect the team’s balance in regards to the
players’ positioning, as the appropriate reactions were triggered and balance was retained at all times.

As we have already seen, the shifts towards the sidelines triggered the centre forward to drop deeper in some
cases. However, there were also cases when this shift triggered the forward movement of one of the defensive
midfielders.

Option 1: The Right Winger Drops into a Defensive Midfielder’s Position

The right winger (No.16) drops deep into

a defensive midfielder’s position. This
movement triggers an automatic response.
Not only does the full back move forward
to take advantage of the free space, but a
defensive midfielder (No.18) also moves into
an advanced position to retain a three man
formation inside the attacking midfielders’
zone. With this reaction, five players (the
centre forward is not shown) are inside the
opposition half ready to take part in the
attack.

Option 2: No.10 Moves to the Cover Right Winger Who Dropped Back

In this situation, the No.10 moves to fill

the gap created by the right winger No.16
dropping back into a deep position.

The defesive midfielder (No.18) moves into

a central advanced position and the team
retains balance again.

Five players (together with the centre forward)

are in the opposition half ready to attack.

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Option 3: The No.10 Drops Back into a Deep Position

The No.10 is now the player

who drops back into a defensive
midfielder’s position.

The defensive midfielder on the

strong side (Sahin) moves into an
advanced position Bender moves
into a balanced position.

Option 4: The Right Winger Moves Towards the Sideline

The right winger (16) moves towards

the sideline.

The defensive midfielder on the

strong side (Sahin) moves into an
advanced position again.

ASSESSMENT:
As can be seen from all the diagrams, Borussia Dortmund always retained five players
(the centre forward is included) in advanced positions.

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CHAPTER 4
FORMATIONS AND THE
THREE STAGES OF ATTACK
Formations With 2 Players At The Back. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Formations With 3 Players At The Back. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Choosing The Appropriate Formation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
The Three Stages Of Attack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
The First Stage Of Attack Against 2 Passive Forwards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
The First Stage Of Attack Against 2 Aggressive Forwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Moving Towards Available Passing Lanes On The Side To Create Passing Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Moving Towards Available Passing Lanes In The Centre To Create Passing Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
The Second Stage Of Attack - Creating Scoring Chances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

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Formations With 2 Players At The Back

During the attacking phase, the team used two basic formations and several variations of them.

2-3-4-1 Formation with Two Players at the Back (1)

This is the most obvious formation

for the 4-2-3-1. One full back moves
into a more advanced position and
joins the 3 midfielders. The more
advanced defensive midfielder is ready
to provide support to the forwards
while the deeper one and the deeper
full back are ready to provide support
to the defenders. When the full back
moves forward, the deep defensive
midfielder stays close to the defenders.
In case he moves forward, the full back
must drop even deeper.

2-3-4-1 Formation with Two Players at the Back (2)

The team’s fluidity during the attack

resulted in several variations of the
2-3-4-1 formation.

This is a variation of the previous

formation.

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Formations And The Three Stages Of Attack

2-3-4-1 Formation with Two Players at the Back (3)

In this variation, the player

who drops back is the central
attacking midfielder (No.10),
while one of the defensive
midfielders (Sahin) moves into a
more advanced position.

Points of Reference when Building up Play with Two Players at the Back

When building up play from the

back using two defenders against
an opponent who defended
within the middle third, most of
the forward passes were made
within the red area shown in the
diagram.

The players who took over the

job of passing the ball forward
were the two centre backs as well
as the two defensive midfielders.

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Formations With 3 Players At The Back

3-3-3-1 Formation with Three Players at the Back - The Defensive

Midfielder Drops Back (1)

There were times when Borussia

Dortmund formed a three man
defence with the contribution of
the defensive midfielder (Bender).
This player dropped back either
towards the sideline (as shown in
this diagram) or in between the
two centre backs.

3-3-3-1 Formation with Three Players at the Back - The Defensive Midfielder
Drops Back (2)
The defensive midfielder (Bender)
drops between the two centre
backs. In these two situations the
midfielder dropping back triggered
the forward movement of both
full backs and the other defensive
midfielder (Sahin) shifting towards
the centre.

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3-2-4-1 Formation with Three Players at the Back - The Full Back on the
Weak Side Drops Deeper

The weak side’s full back

(Schmelzer) drops back and
forms a three man defence as the
strong side’s full back (Piszczek)
moves into an advanced position.
One of the defensive midfielders
is in a deeper position and the
other one is in a more advanced
position.

Points of Reference when Building up Play with Three Players at the Back

When building up from the back

with three defenders against an
opponent who defended in the
middle third, most of the forward
passes were made within the red
area shown.

The players who took over the

job of passing the ball forward
were the two centre backs and
the two centre midfielders
(including Bender who dropped
back to become the third centre
back). As the full backs’ main aim
was to provide support to the
forwards, it was not possible to
take part in the initial build up
play from the back.

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Choosing The Appropriate Formation

The formation Borussia Dortmund used during the attacking phase depended on how many players stayed
at the back. They kept the appropriate number of players at the back in order to outnumber the opposition
forwards. Outnumbering the opposition in this part of the pitch affected not only the carrying out of the
attacking phase, but also the preparation of the negative transition (transition from attack to defence).

How the Choice of the Formation Affected the Attacking Phase:

When building up play from the back, Dortmund’s aim was to outnumber the opposition’s forwards in order to
have a spare player. By having a spare player at the back, the team could move forward more easily. The only
thing the players had to do was to pass the ball to this player. Available time on the ball was obtained as well
as available space to pass or move forward. Except for a free forward pass, the team could create a numerical
advantage in certain areas higher up the pitch.

How the Choice of the Formation Affected the Negative Transition Phase:
If possession was lost, by retaining a spare man at the back, Dortmund could carry out the negative transition
more easily and with greater success.

Using a Two Man Formation against One Opposition Forward

In situations when
the opposition played
with one forward,
Borussia chose to form
a two man formation
at the back.

In this case both

the full backs could
move into advanced
positions.

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Formations And The Three Stages Of Attack

Using a Two Man Formation against Two Opposition Forwards Who

Defended in a Passive Way

Dortmund would choose to form

a two man defence even when
they played against two forwards,
as long as the two forwards
stayed compact (one in an
advanced position and the other
one in a deeper position close
to the midfielders). This meant
there was still a 2 v 1 or 3 v 2 at
the back (as shown in diagram),
as the second striker was usually
between the two defensive
midfielders. The full back would
be deeper (Schmelzer) alongside
the defensive midfielder (Bender).

Using the Appropriate Formation against Two Opposition Forwards Who

Defended Aggressively and Pressed High Up the Pitch (1)

Borussia Dortmund formed a

three man defensive formation in
situations when the opposition
forwards tried to put pressure on
the defenders.

The defensive midfielder (Bender)

would drop back and the full
backs moved forward as there
was a 3 v 2 at the back while
the second defensive midfielder
(Sahin) stayed in a balanced
central position.

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Using the Appropriate Formation against Two Opposition Forwards Who

Defended Aggressively and Pressed High Up the Pitch (2)

This is another variation of the

previous situation. This time
the defensive midfielder drops
deeper into the centre of defence.

Using the Appropriate Formation against Two Opposition Forwards Who

Defended Aggressively and Pressed High Up the Pitch (3)

Finally in this situation, Borussia

Dortmund formed a three man
defensive formation with one of
the full backs dropping back.

A 3 v 2 at the back is created

again. This formation was usually
temporary.

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Formations And The Three Stages Of Attack

The Three Stages Of Attack

In order to understand how Borussia Dortmund played during the attacking phase better, there will be a
classification of the attacking play in the three stages.

1st Stage of Attack: Borussia Dortmund would build up play from the back in many cases. The first stage started
as soon as the goalkeeper passed to one of the defenders. As already mentioned, the aim when building up from
the back (first stage of attack) was to find the free player who had available time and space to pass forward or
move forward with the ball. When playing against an opponent that defended within the middle third, most of
the forward passes were made within the red area (see the ‘The Build Up Areas’ diagram below).

2nd Stage of Attack: As soon as one of the players at the back made a forward pass towards one of the
advanced players, the team moved into the second stage of attack. The aim of the second stage was to find a
player in the appropriate position to make the final (killer) pass, so the team used attacking combinations in
order to achieve this aim.

3rd Stage of Attack: As soon as the final pass was made the third stage of attack started and involved all the
actions of the players in order to score, such as shooting and heading.

During the attacking phase, there were also times when the team skipped one of the stages. For example,
Dortmund’s goalkeeper did not make passes to defenders when they were under pressure. Weidenfeller
preferred to use long kicks towards the forwards rather than make a risky pass. By this way the team skipped the
first stage and moved straight to the second one. There were also attacking combinations between the players
that led from the first stage of attack straight to the third one.

The Build Up Areas

When the team faced an opponent

who defended within the middle third,
the three build up areas were the ones
shown in this diagram.

In the first stage area, the players tried to

find the player who had available time
and space to make the forward pass to
or move forward with the ball. In the
second stage area, the players used the
appropriate attacking combinations in
order to move the ball to a player who
had the right position to play the final
pass or a cross inside the box.

Finally, inside the third stage area the

players used the appropriate finishing
touches in order to score.

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The First Stage Of Attack Against

2 Passive Forwards
Borussia Dortmund’s aim during the first stage of attack was to find the player who had available time and space
to receive, in order to achieve an accurate forward pass or move forward with the ball.

There was usually a 4 v 2 situation in favour of Dortmund within the first stage area of attack when the opposing
team played with two forwards and a 4 v 1 when the opposition played with one forward.

Overcoming Pressure at the Back against Two Passive Forwards and

Moving to the Second Stage of Attack (1)

When building up from the back against two

forwards who defended in a passive way, the
through pass between the two forwards was usually
blocked.

So the man in possession could either make the

forward pass towards the defensive midfielder
on the strong side (option 1) or a horizontal pass
towards the centre back on the weak side (option 2)
who could then move forward with the ball and pass
before No.10 managed to close him down.

Overcoming Pressure at the Back against Two Passive Forwards and

Moving to the Second Stage of Attack (2)

In case the direct pass towards the defensive

midfielder (Bender) was blocked, the full back on the
strong side could be used as a link player in order for
the ball to be directed towards him.

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The First Stage Of Attack Against

2 Aggressive Forwards
Overcoming Pressure at the Back against Two Aggressive Forwards and
Moving to the Second Stage of Attack (1)

If the opposition forward tried to disrupt

the passing between the two centre
backs, one of the defensive midfielders
dropped into a centre back’s position.

In this diagram, Bender drops towards the

side and provides a passing option (option
1). As the opposition forward (No.10) takes
up a rather flat position and prevents the
horizontal pass, the through pass (option
2) between the forwards is available.

Overcoming Pressure at the Back against Two Aggressive Forwards and

Moving to the Second Stage of Attack (2)

In this diagram, the defensive midfielder

drops between the two centre backs.

When he receives the pass from Hummels,

he has two passing options because of the
red No.10’s position.

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Overcoming Pressure at the Back against Two Aggressive Forwards and

Moving to the Second Stage of Attack (3)

In this diagram, the right back drops back

and forms a three man defence.

This action creates a 5 v 2 at the back,

but limits the available forward passing
options.

ASSESSMENT:
In situations when Borussia Dortmund could not find an easy way to pass the ball to the
spare player due to the oppostion’s pressure, they usually tried a long ball towards the
centre forward or passed the ball back to the goalkeeper.

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Formations And The Three Stages Of Attack

Moving Towards Available Passing Lanes On

The Side To Create Passing Options
As soon as the aim of finding the spare man during the first stage of attack was achieved, the team could then
move on to the second stage. The first step for the players in advanced positions was to take up positions in the
available passing lanes to provide passing options for the man in possession. The player in possession could be
positioned near the sidelines or in the centre. The diagrams to follow show the most common positioning of the
players in both cases.

Two Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (1)

The man in possession (Hummels) is on the left

side. As the centre forward Lewandowski is on
the weak side, the left back, the left winger and
the central attacking midfielder (No.10) move
towards the available passing lanes.

One defensive midfielder is deeper and the

other one higher up the pitch. As both the
defensive midfielders are beyond the opposing
forwards, the weak side’s full back (No.26 - right
back) is in a deep position.

Three Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (1)

Here we have a similar situation to the previous

one, but with a three man defensive formation.

Both full backs are high up the pitch and No.18

is in a central balanced position.

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Two Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (2)
The central attacking midfielder (No.10) is on the
weak side, so in order for the man in possession to
have one more available passing option, the centre
forward (No.9) drops back.

The No.10 moves into an advanced position

retaining the balance in attack at the same time.

Three Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (2)
When Dortmund had three players at the back,
both full backs were high up the pitch and No.18 is
in a central balanced position.

Two Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (3)
The left winger (11) takes up an advanced position.
As the Νο.10 helps to overload the left side of the
pitch and the centre forward (9) is on the weak side,
the weak side’s winger No.16 makes an extensive
shift towards the left. The defensive midfielder
No.18 moves into a more advanced position, but
not behind the opposition’s midfield line. The right
back drops back to retain balance and superiority
in numbers (3 v 2). The extensive shift of the winger
on the weak side (No.16) was not a very common
occurence during the games.

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Three Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (3)
Both full backs are positioned high up the pitch
and No.18 is in a central balanced position.

Two Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (4)
This is a variation of the previous situation.

The defensive midfielder No.6 moves into an

advanced position and the other defensive
midfielder (No.18) drops deeper.

Three Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (4)
In this three players at the back variation of the
previous situation, the position towards the
available passing lane to the right of Hummels
should be taken by the centre forward or the right
winger.

The defensive midfielder (No.18) should not move

higher as the team would become imbalanced.

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Two Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (5)
The left winger takes up an advanced position. This
time the centre forward drops back to provide a
passing option and create an overload on that side.

The central attacking midfielder (10) is in a centre

forward’s position and the weak side’s winger
moves towards the passing lane. No.18 moves into
an advanced position and the right back (No.26)
drops back.

Three Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (5)
This is a variation of the previous situation with a
three man defence.

Again, the defensive midfielder (No.18) stays in a

balanced deep position.

Two Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (6)
The left winger takes up an advanced position
again. The centre forward drops back to provide a
passing option and create an overload on that side.

As the central attacking midfielder is in a deep

position, the weak side’ winger moves into a centre
forward’s position.

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Three Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes on the Side (6)
This is a variation of the previous situation with a
three man defence.

Again, the defensive midfielder (No.18) stays in a

balanced deep position.

ASSESSMENT:
The positioning of the players on the left side has been displayed in these diagrams. The
positioning on the right was the same.

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Moving Towards Available Passing Lanes In

The Centre To Create Passing Options
In situations where the attacking play took place in the centre, the forward players again tried to take up
positions towards the available passing lanes. This was to create passing options for the ball carrier.

Two Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes in the Centre (1)

The defensive midfielder receives

and is able to pass the ball forward.
The three attacking midfielders
move towards the three available
passing lanes.

The full back on the side that Sahin is

more likely to direct the ball moves
into a more advanced position.

The centre forward is also positioned

towards a potential passing lane.

Three Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes in the Centre (1)

In case the players form a three man

defence, the situation is very similar.

Bender (No.6) is the third defender

as shown, so the right back can also
move forward.

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Two Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes in the Centre (2)
The No.10 is in the shadow of No.8, so No.9 drops
back to provide a passing option towards the
central passing lane. This forces No.10 to move a
few yards forward into a centre forward’s position.

With this reaction, No.10 retains the team’s balance

and is ready to participate in the attack after the
potential combination. The left back again moves
into an advanced position to take advantage of the
potential free space.

Three Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes in the Centre (2)
The option of the three man defence is very similar
to the previous one.

Bender (No.6) is the third defender as shown, so the

right back can also move forward.

Two Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes in the Centre (3)

No.16 is positioned behind the opposition’s No.11

and is unable to receive a potential pass.

No.9 drops back towards the side. This forces No.16

to move into a centre forward’s position.

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Chapter 4

Three Players at the Back: Moving Towards Passing Lanes in the Centre (3)

The option of the three man defence is very

similar to the previous one.

Bender (No.6) is the third defender as shown, so

the right back can also move forward.

ASSESSMENT:
Borussia Dortmund’s three attacking midfield players tried to take up positions towards
the three available passing lanes. In situations when one of them could not provide a
passing option, the centre forward dropped back to take his place. This was in order for
the man in possession to have multiple passing options available.

However, the attacking midfielder who was originally not available still took part in the
attack by taking up a more advanced position and being ready to receive a final (killer)
pass in behind the defensive line.

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Formations And The Three Stages Of Attack

The Second Stage Of Attack - Creating

Scoring Chances
As soon as the forward pass could be made, the second stage of attack started. During this stage the team used
several attacking combinations that had different aims but only one target; to create a scoring chance.

The attacking combinations can be classified according to the aim of the combination used in order for the
team to create a scoring chance. If this aim was fulfilled, there was a high chance for the team to create a scoring
chance.

A) Creating Space
This type of combination had the aim of creating space for a teammate or for the player himself. The creating
space combination in most cases was related to getting free of marking, so if space was not created, the getting
free of marking aim was definitely obtained and vice versa.

The option of the three man defence is very similar

to the previous one.

Bender (No.6) is the third defender as shown, so the

right back can also move forward.

B) Getting Free of Marking

This type of combination had the aim of receiving the ball unmarked. This was obtained either by an up and
down movement or by dropping deep.

The left winger (11) and the left back (29) move
again in the same way.

As the red right back (2) decides to defend his

zone of responsibility in order to avoid space
being created on the flank, the midfielder receives
unmarked and is able to turn with the ball facing the
opposition goal.

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Chapter 4

C) Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage with a Third Man Run
This type of attacking combination usually had the aim of creating space in the second stage of attack. The space
in the second stage was created as the player marking the player dropping back did not follow him immediately
to avoid allowing space to be created.

However, this defender (marker) would move to close his direct opponent down after the pass towards him
was completed. Due to the fact that the space was created after the pass, there should have been a passing
combination in order to be exploit it.

The defensive midfielder (6) Bender

moves forward with the ball. The
central attacking midfielder (10) is
unable to receive a pass due to the
narrow passing lane, so the centre
forward No.9 drops back to receive
towards the available passing lane.

No.10 makes a forward movement

while the red No.4 does not follow
No.9’s movement to try and avoid
space being created.

As soon as the pass is made towards

No.9, the red No.4 moves to close the
potential receiver down. This reaction
creates space behind his back and
No.10 moves to exploit it.

The ball ends up in Mkhitaryan’s

(No.10) possession after No.9’s first
time pass to him.

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Formations And The Three Stages Of Attack

D) Overloading a Specific Part of the Pitch

There were attacking combinations that had the aim of overloading a specific part of the pitch or in other words,
had the aim of creating superiority in numbers in a specific part of the pitch.

The central attacking midfielder

moves towards the side and
creates a 2 v 1 situation.

In a situation like this, the red right

back (No.2) is unable to move
forward to mark Mkhitaryan as he
is already marking Reus (No.11).
So Mkhitaryan (No.10) receives the
ball and has the available time and
space to turn and pass the ball
forward.

E) Quick Passing
This type of attacking combination involved quick passing (simple or complex) with the aim of either moving
the ball to a player with good positioning between the lines in order to make the killer pass or to move the ball
straight to a player in a suitable position to take a shot on goal.

Again, the No.10 is unable to

receive due to the narrow passing
lane. The right winger (16) shifts,
receives and passes first time to
No.10 who receives the ball facing
the opposition goal.

The No.10 has available time and

space to make a killer pass. No.9
makes a movement in behind to
receive.

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Chapter 4

F) Direct Play
On several occasions, Borussia Dortmund would use a more direct style of attack. The players used long passes to
get the ball quickly close/into the opposition’s penalty area to create scoring chances.

In this diagram, the centre back

(15) plays a long pass towards
the centre forward who moves
towards the blind side of his
marker.

G) Switching Play
These kinds of combinations were used after a switch of play towards the weak side. The aim was to create
superiority in numbers on the weak side and use this advantage to create a scoring chance.

When switching play, the width

is provided by the full back and
the ball is directed to the wide
midfielder/winger.

Borussia Dortmund’s players

manage to achieve a switch of
play towards the right winger
Błaszczykowski (16). As soon as
Błaszczykowski receives, he is
unable to turn to the inside as
the red midfielder No.6 manages
to close him down. So he passes
to the overlapping right back
Piszczek (26).

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Formations And The Three Stages Of Attack

The right back Piszczek (26) moves

forward with the ball, while the right
winger helps to create a numerical
advantage on the flank with an
overlapping run.

The winger then receives from the

full back and delivers a cross. If No.11
had reacted quicker and a numerical
superiority was not achieved, the ball
could be passed back towards No.18 or
No.25 (who move forward).

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CHAPTER 5
ATTACKING TACTICAL
SITUATIONS & SESSIONS
Attacking Tactical Situation 1: Creating Space On The Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Attacking Tactical Situation 2: The Centre Forward Creating Space in the Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Attacking Tactical Situation 3: Getting Free of Marking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Attacking Tactical Situation 4: Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage of Attack with Passing
Combinations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Attacking Tactical Situation 5: Overloading on the Flank with The Centre Back or Defensive Midfielder. . . . . . . . . 116
Attacking Tactical Situation 6: Overloading on the Flank or in the Centre with a Forward Moving to Receive. . . . 126
Attacking Tactical Situation 7: Passing Combination: Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Attacking Tactical Situation 8: The Lay-Off Passing Combination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Attacking Tactical Situation 9: Passing Combination with a Third Man Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Attacking Tactical Situation 10: Direct Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Attacking Tactical Situation 11: Long Passes in Behind the Defence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176
Attacking Tactical Situation 12: Switching Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185

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ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATION 1

Creating Space On The Flank

Analysis Of Creating Space. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Wing Play: Creating Space On The Flank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Tactical Analysis: Wingers Creating Space On The Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Session For This Tactical Situation (6 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
1. Creating Space On the Flank with Combination Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
2. Building Up Play Under Pressure from 2 Forwards, Creating and Exploting Space on the Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
3. Building Up Play Under Pressure from 2 Forwards, Creating and Exploting Space on the Flank (2). . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
4. Building Up Play Under Pressure from 3 Forwards, Creating and Exploting Space on the Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
5. Building Up Play Under Pressure, Creating Space on the Flank and Crossing in a Dynamic Zonal Practice. . . . . . 69
6. Building Up Play Under Pressure, Creating Space on the Flank and Crossing in an 11 v 11
Dynamic Zonal Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Attacking Tactical Situation 1

Analysis Of Creating Space

Creating space is the attempt of an attacking player to force his direct opponent (marker) to leave an area or part
of the pitch unoccupied, in order for an attacking player to take advantage of it. Creating space and getting free
of marking are two attacking combinations connected to each other as they are used in a very similar way.

The alternative option of creating space is getting free of marking. So when one player uses a movement to
create space, but space is not created, then this player in most cases manages to get free of marking.

There were two types of creating space during Borussia Dortmund’s attacking play:
1. To create space (usually by the centre forward and the winger) for a teammate to exploit
2. To create space for the same player to exploit

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Creating Space On The Flank

Wing Play: Creating Space On The Flank

Basic elements:
1. Good synchronisation between the players involved
2. Reading the positioning of the players so that the right player takes advantage of the free space
3. Accurate passing

When the man in possession was a defensive midfielder or a centre back, according to the tactical situation there
were three options of exploiting the space created by the winger. The most frequent option was the pass towards
the full back who moved into an advanced position to exploit the free space. This enabled Borussia Dortmund to
have many players inside the box for a potential cross.

However, on occasions when the full back was in a deep position, the centre forward or the central attacking
midfielder (No.10) were the players who took over the job of exploiting the free space.

The Winger Creating Space on the Flank for the Full Back to Exploit

The winger drops back and the full back who is

in an advanced position moves to exploit the
free space.

The Winger Creating Space on the Flank for the No.10 to Exploit

The winger drops back, but the full back is in a

deep position this time.

As the centre forward is on the weak side and

the No.10 is on the strong side, the No.10 is the
player who moves to take advantage of the free
space.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 1

The Winger Creating Space on the Flank for the Centre Forward to Exploit
The full back and the No.10 are both in deep
positions.

The winger drops back and the centre forward

is on the strong side and moves across to take
advantage of the free space and receive the
long pass from Bender.

The Winger Creating Space on the Flank for the Centre Forward to Exploit (2)
In situations when the full back was in
possession, the space created by the winger
was exploited either by the centre forward or
by the central attacking midfielder (10). This
depended on who was positioned on the
strong side. In the example shown, it is the
centre forward.

The Winger Creating Space on the Flank for the No.10 to Exploit

In this variation of the previous example, the

No.10 is positioned on the strong side, so
moves to exploit the space.

Lewandowski stays in the centre forward

position.

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Creating Space On The Flank

Tactical Analysis: Wingers Creating Space

On The Flank
Wing Play: Creating Space for the Full Back on the Flank (1)

The build up takes place on the left.

Bender drops back and receives the
ball from Hummels. The winger Reus
drops back towards the available
passing lane while No.29 Schmelzer
who is already in an advanced
position, moves forward in a
synchronized movement.

As the red No.2 follows the deep

movement of Reus, space is created
on the flank. Schmelzer exploits
it and receives the long ball from
Bender.

Wing Play: Creating Space for the Full Back on the Flank (2)

Another option of creating space

for the full back is shown here. The
ball is in the defensive midfielder
Bender’s possession in the centre.

As there is an available passing

lane, No.11 Reus drops back and
the full back Schmelzer who is in an
appropriate position moves forward.

As No.2 follows No.11’s movement,

there is space available for
Schmelzer to exploit.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 1

Wing Play: Creating Space for the Centre Forward on the Flank (1)
Lewandowski usually created space for the
midfielders, but here the winger (No.16) creates
space for him. Both defensive midfielders are
beyond the opposition forwards. As No.29 is in an
advanced position, No.26 is in a deeper position
and unable to exploit the free space on the flank.
Hummels passes to Sahin in the centre. No.16
drops back towards the available passing lane
and creates space. As No.10 is on the weak side,
Lewandowski is the player who moves to take
advantage of it and receives the pass.

Wing Play: Creating Space for the Centre Forward on the Flank (2)
This is another option for the winger to create
space for the centre forward. The ball is passed
to the right back (Piszczek) who is in a deep
position. As he has available time and space,
Blaszczykowski (16) drops back and the red left
back (3) follows him.

As the No.10 is on the weak side, the centre

forward (Lewandowski) moves to take advantage
of the free space that has been created.

Wing Play: Creating Space for the Central Attacking Midfielder

(No.10) on the Flank
The defensive midfielder Bender receives the
ball on the left. The centre forward is on the
weak side and the No.10 is on the strong side.
This forces both red centre backs to be close to
No.9 and leave the red right back No.2 with little
support. As soon as Bender passes to No.29, Reus
drops back and the opposing full back (2) follows
his movement. This reaction creates space for
Mkhitaryan (10) to exploit. The pass is directed
towards his path and Dortmund break through
the opposition defence on the left.

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Creating Space On The Flank

Session For This Tactical Situation (6 Practices)

1. Creating Space On the Flank with Combination Play

Objective
To develop attacking combinations and movements to create and exploit space on the flank.

Description
This is a practice with options which forces players to think quickly and act appropriately. There are two practices
in one with the wingers (C and H) aiming to create space. The practice starts simultaneously from both sides (left
and right) with A and F. They both dribble the ball for a few yards, then choose to pass through one of the two
cone gates (options 1 and 2). This choice affects how the practice proceeds.

Left: If A chooses option 1, B (the full back) moves forward, receives and dribbles the ball towards the red cone
gate. As soon as he moves through the cone gate (trigger), C (winger) drops back and D1 (the No.10) moves
towards the blue marked area, receives the long ball and plays a 1-2 combination with E, before passing to F. If A
had chosen option 2, this would force D1 to drop into a deeper position and D2 (centre forward) moves towards
the blue area to receive. All players move one position forward - A > B, B > C, C > D1/D2, D1/D2 > E and E > F.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 1

Right: Player G (defensive midfielder or centre back) receives from F and chooses to dribble the ball through the
orange cone gate (option 1). He then continues his run with the ball and as soon as he moves through the red
cone gate (trigger), player H (winger) drops back and I1 (full back) moves forward, receives the long ball and plays
a 1-2 combination with J, before passing to A. If G had chosen option 2, this would force the full back to drop into
a deeper position and I2 (centre forward) moves towards the blue area to receive. All players move one position
forward.

Coaching Points
1. Players need to be able to read the tactical situation, learning to select the right option at the right time.
2. The accuracy of the long passing should be monitored.
3. There needs to be good synchronisation with the weight of pass to the players’ various movements.

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Creating Space On The Flank

PROGRESSION
2. Building Up Play Under Pressure from 2 Forwards,
Creating and Exploting Space on the Flank

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Attacking Tactical Situation 1

Objective
To develop attacking combinations and movements to create and exploit space on the flank. In this practice the
winger creates space when the ball is in the full back’s possession and the centre forward or No.10 exploits it.

Description
In an area 35 x 45 yards we divide it into three sections; a high zone, a middle zone for the four forwards and a
low zone for the defensive midfielders and the defenders.

The coach or goalkeeper starts the drill by passing the ball into the low zone. Inside the low zone there is a
yellow zone (25 x 15 yards) which is divided horizontally into two parts. Inside this area the teams play 4 (+1) v 2
while the two full backs take up positions inside the blue areas near the sidelines.

The middle area (35 x 20 yards) is divided vertically into the strong side and the weak side. The wingers take up
positions inside the light blue areas near the sidelines. The No.10 (inside the white zone) and the centre forward
(No.9) move constantly for as long as the game is played within the yellow zone, but they should always take up
positions on opposite sides. This means there is always one player on the strong side and one on the weak side.

The aim of the yellow players is to find a way to pass the ball towards the full backs within their areas. As soon
as this takes place the winger on the strong side drops back to create space. The No.10 or the centre forward
(whoever is on the strong side) moves to exploit the space, receive the pass from the full back and cross either
targeting the nearest goal or the furthest one (near and far post cross). If the reds win possession inside the
yellow zone, they try to dribble the ball through the end line.

Restrictions
1. The full backs can only leave their area by dribbling the ball.
2. The red players inside the yellow zone can switch positions, but there should be one in each horizontal zone
at all times.

Variation
The yellow players have to complete at least 3-4 passes before they pass to the full back.

Coaching Points
1. Players need to be able to read the tactical situation. The centre forward should take up a position in relation
to where the No.10 is (on the opposite side).
2. Accuracy in long passing is required as the pass must be received within the blue area.
3. The accuracy of the crosses can easily be monitored by using target goals as shown in diagram.

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Creating Space On The Flank

VARIATION
3. Building Up Play Under Pressure from 2 Forwards,
Creating and Exploting Space on the Flank (2)

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Attacking Tactical Situation 1

Description
This is a variation of the previous practice. The full backs’ areas have been moved to a more advanced position
and they have the freedom to drop back to play as outside players and help to move the ball to one of the
inside players or to move forward in order to take advantage of the free space. The exploitation of the free space
depends on the full back’s position (high or low).

The aim of the yellow players is this time to find a way to dribble the ball through the red line shown. As soon
as this takes place, the strong side’s winger drops back to create space. If the full back is inside his area (high
position), he is the one who moves to exploit the free space (diagram 1).

If the full back drops into a low position to help his teammates retain possession, either the No.10 or the centre
forward move to exploit the free space (diagram 2). If the reds win possession, they try dribble the ball through
the end line on the other side.

Restrictions
1. The goalkeeper is limited to one touch.
2. The forward pass should be made within the red area as shown in the diagrams.
3. During the 4 v 2 game within the yellow zone, the centre forward and the No.10 move constantly but they
must retain balance by staying on opposite sides.

Variation
The yellow players have to complete at least 3-4 passes before they dribble the ball through the red line.

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Creating Space On The Flank

VARIATION
4. Building Up Play Under Pressure from 3 Forwards,
Creating and Exploting Space on the Flank

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Attacking Tactical Situation 1

Description
This is a variation of the previous practice and the difference is that the attacking midfielder is in a deep position
(inside the red zone as shown). So the created space must be exploited either by the full back (diagram 1) or by
the centre forward (diagram 2). The two teams play 4 (+2 +2) v 3 within the low yellow zone.

The central attacking midfielder (No.10) now plays deeper than his previous position in order to provide help to
his teammates. Due to his deep position, the centre forward must move towards the strong side to be able to
exploit the potential free space.

The aim of the yellow players inside the low yellow zone is to either dribble the ball into the red zone (diagram 1)
or pass the ball within the high part of the zone towards the full back (option 2). As soon as this takes place, the
winger on the strong side drops back to create space. The full back (diagram 1) or the centre forward (diagram 2)
move to exploit the free space. If the reds win possession, they try dribble the ball through the end line.

Restriction
1. The pass towards the full backs (diagram 2) must be made within the high part of the yellow zone.
2. The forward pass (diagram 1) from the defensive midfielders or the centre backs must be played from within
the red zone.

Variation
The yellow players in the low zone have to complete at least 3-4 passes before they pass to the full back or
dribble the ball through the red line.

Coaching Points
1. Players need to be able to read the tactical situation. The centre forward should take up a position according
to the No.10’s position.
2. Good accuracy is required for the long passing and crossing.
3. There needs to be good synchronisation in the players’ movements.

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Creating Space On The Flank

PROGRESSION
5. Building Up Play Under Pressure, Creating Space on
the Flank and Crossing in a Dynamic Zonal Practice

Objective
The winger creates space and the appropriate player exploits it (players must read the tactical situation).

Description
In this progression, we now play in 2/3 of a full pitch and add 4 red defenders. Two of the red defenders (the
full backs) take up positions inside the blue areas near the sidelines. The 4 yellow players play against the 3
red forwards inside the yellow low zone. The yellow full backs and the No.10 can move out of their areas and
drop back in order to provide support to their teammates, while the centre forward must adjust his positioning
according to No.10.

The aim of the yellow players inside the low zone is to find a way either to pass the ball from within the high part
area to the full backs or dribble the ball into the red zone. As soon as this takes place, the winger on the strong side
drops back to create space while his marker follows him. The appropriate player according to the tactical situation
should take advantage of the free space and cross the ball for his teammates who time their runs into the box.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 1

The red defenders try to prevent the yellows from scoring. If the reds win possession inside the low zone, they try
to dribble the ball through the end line.

Restrictions
1. The red full backs must follow their opponents’ movements, but the red centre backs are not allowed to enter
the light blue areas.
2. The yellow players must receive the ball within their area before dribbling outside of them.

Variation
The yellow players have to complete at least 3-4 passes before they pass to the full back or dribble the ball
through the red line.

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Creating Space On The Flank

PROGRESSION
6. Building Up Play Under Pressure, Creating Space on the
Flank and Crossing in an 11 v 11 Dynamic Zonal Game

Description
In this progression, we add a full sized goal as shown and the goalkeeper starts the practice. The two teams play
4 v 3 inside the yellow zone. The yellow full backs and No.10 can provide support to help maintain possession.
One of the red midfielders can enter this area to assist his teammates.

The aim of the yellow players inside the low zone is to find a way to either pass the ball from within the high part
to the full backs or dribble the ball into the red zone. As soon as this takes place, the winger on the strong side
drops back to create space and his marker follows him. The appropriate player (No.10 in the diagram) according
to the tactical situation (player on the strong side) should take advantage of the free space and cross the ball for
his teammates who time their runs into the box.

The red defenders try to prevent the yellows from scoring and if they win possession either inside or outside of
the yellow zone they try to score within 8-10 seconds. The variation and the restrictions remain the same as the
previous practice.

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CHAPTER 5

Attacking Tactical Situation 2

The Centre Forward Creating

Space in the Centre

Centre Forward Play: Creating Space In The Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Tactical Analysis: The Centre Forward Creating Space In The Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
1. The Forward Dropping Deep to Create Space in Behind with Combination Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
2. Building Up Play with the Forward Dropping Deep to Create Space in Behind for the No.10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
3. Building Up Play with the Forward Dropping Deep to Create Space in Behind for the Winger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
4. The Forward Dropping Deep to Create Space in Behind in a 10 v 7 Zonal Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
The Central Attacking Midfielder (No.10) Creating Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

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The Centre Forward Creating Space in the Centre

Centre Forward Play: Creating Space In The

Centre
Basic elements:

a. Good synchronization between the players involved.

b. Balance in the players’ positioning, so that there is always one player ready to take advantage of the free
space.
c. Accurate passing.

When the centre forward dropped back and space was created behind him, the player who used to exploit it was
the No.10. However, there were cases when the deep positioning of No.10 did not enable him to do this, so a
winger would then move into a position to exploit it.

The Centre Forward Creating Space (1)

When the combination took place in the centre,

the space was usually created by the No.9
dropping back. For space to be created, one
player must be close to No.9. This was obtained
only if the team retained balance in regards
to the players’ positioning. In this diagram
No.9 drops back into an attacking midfielder’s
position. As soon as the attacking midfielder
notices this movement, he moves into a centre
forward’s position. The trigger point is when No.9
starts to drop back so the No.10 has to have eye
contact with No.9.

The No.10 retains the balance with his

positioning as he moves forward while the centre
forward drops back.

His new position enables him to exploit the free

space created by the centre forward and receive
the pass from the player in possession.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 2

The Centre Forward Creating Space (2)

The centre forward (9) drops into an attacking

midfielder’s position again. As the No.10 is deeper
this time, it is difficult for him to have eye contact
with No.9 and move into a centre forward’s
position (large distance to cover).

The winger (17) reads the tactical situation as he

has eye contact with both players and as soon
as he notices the movement of No.9, he moves
towards the centre to take over the role of the
centre forward. His reaction retains the balance in
positioning.

The right winger (17) moves into a position which

enables him to exploit the free space created by
the centre forward and receive the pass from the
player in possession.

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The Centre Forward Creating Space in the Centre

Tactical Analysis: The Centre Forward Creating

Space In The Centre
Creating Space for the Winger (1)
Sahin (18) receives the ball while Mkhitaryan (10) is in
a deep position and too far away to take advantage of
the free space.

However, Aubameyang has taken up an effective

position (not very wide) and uses his pace to exploit
the free space created by Lewandowski in order to
receive Sahin’s pass.

Creating Space for the Winger (2)

This is another situation where the No.10 is in a deep
position. Aubameyang (the winger on the strong
side) is also in a deep position and unable to exploit
the potential space created.

In this situation, as Sahin receives the ball and

Lewandowski drops back, Reus moves to take up
a centre forward’s position. As the red No.5 follows
Lewandowski, space is created and Reus continues
his run to exploit the space in behind and receive the
pass from Sahin.

Creating Space for the Central Attacking Midfielder (No.10)

Piszczek passes to Sahin. As Sahin has available
time on the ball, Lewandowski drops. In order for
balance to be retained, as soon as No.10 sees No.9’s
movement, he moves to take up a centre forward’s
position. As red No.5 follows Lewandowski, space
is created and No.10 moves to take advantage and
receives the pass. Bender also moves forward as
Piszczek provides numerical superiority at the back in
order to provide a passing option, in case the forward
pass is not possible.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 2

Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices)

1. The Forward Dropping Deep to Create Space in Behind
with Combination Play

Objective
To develop combinations and movements to create and exploit space for the centre forward by the winger or the
central attacking midfielder (No.10).

Description
We have 2 blue zones (10 x 10 yards), 2 yellow zones (5 x 5 yards) and 4 mini goals.

Player A passes through either the right or the left cone gate into the yellow marked area. This forces Player B to
drop back in order to pass the ball back first time. Player A receives the pass back and dribbles the ball forward
through the yellow cone gate and this triggers Player C inside the blue area to drop back while the other player
B who has already made a movement towards the blue area, moves to exploit the created space (inside the blue
zone). He receives and shoots into one of the mini goals.

Each player then moves into the next position (A > B > C) one position forward except for the dropping back B
player who stays in his position. Player C moves towards the other side. The same sequence is executed towards
the right at the same time.

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The Centre Forward Creating Space in the Centre

PROGRESSION
2. Building Up Play with the Forward Dropping Deep to
Create Space in Behind for the No.10

Objective
To develop combinations and movements to create/exploit space for the No.10 by the centre forward.

Description
We have 2 blue zones (10 x 10 yards) where the centre forward starts and 2 yellow zones (5 x 5 yards) where the
central attacking midfielder starts. These players move and take up positions either towards the strong or the
weak side according to the position of the ball inside the large zone (30 x 25 yards) which is divided vertically into
two parts for this reason. The centre forward always moves towards the strong side, while the central attacking
midfielder (No.10) moves towards the weak side.

The coach or goalkeeper starts the drill by passing into the large zone and two teams play 4 (+3) v 3. The aim for
the yellows is to find a way to dribble the ball through the red line. As soon as this takes place, the centre forward
drops back to create space while the No.10 moves forward to exploit it. The man in possession plays a long pass
towards this area and No.10 receives and scores as soon as possible in one of the mini goals. If the reds win
possession, they try to score in the 2 mini goals at the other end.

Restrictions
1. The 3 outside players are limited to 1 touch or have to pass back into the area within 3 seconds.
2. Yellows have to complete 3-4 passes before they can dribble the ball through the red line.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 2

VARIATION
3. Building Up Play with the Forward Dropping Deep to
Create Space in Behind for the Winger

Objective
To develop combinations and movements to create/exploit space for the centre forward by the wingers.

Description
In this variation the yellow zones are positioned on the right and left for the wingers. The centre forward moves
and takes up a position on the strong side, according to the position of the ball in the large zone.

The yellow players’ aim remains the same and when a player dribbles the ball through the red line, the centre
forward drops back and creates space, while the winger on the strong side moves to exploit it. The man in
possession plays a long pass into the space created and No.10 receives and tries to score in one of the mini goals.
If the reds win possession, they try to score in the 2 mini goals at the other end.

Restrictions
1. The 3 outside players are limited to 1 touch or have to pass back into the area within 3 seconds.
2. The yellow players in the low zone have to complete at least 3-4 passes before they can dribble the ball
through the red line.

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The Centre Forward Creating Space in the Centre

PROGRESSION
4. The Forward Dropping Deep to Create Space in
Behind in a 10 v 7 Zonal Game

Description
In this progression to the previous variation, we mark out the areas in 2/3 of a full pitch as shown. The two teams
play 5 (+2) v 4 inside the low zone. No.9 takes up a position towards the strong side. The 3 attacking midfielders
(10, 11 and 17) are positioned inside the 3 yellow zones.

The coach or goalkeeper starts the practice and the aim for the yellow players is to create time and space for a
forward pass. Depending which of the 3 sections the ball is in, the respective attacking midfielder should drop
back into a red zone and play as an outside player (No.11 in diagram example).

As soon as the man in possession finds available time and space, the centre forward drops back. The appropriate
player should exploit the created space, receive and shoot on goal as soon as possible. The red defender on the
strong side should follow the centre forward while the other one can track the man who exploits the space (but
is not allowed to enter the light blue zone on the strong side). If the reds win possession, they try to score within
8 seconds. The restrictions remain the same.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 2

The Central Attacking Midfielder (No.10)

Creating Space
Creating Space for the Centre Forward

In this situation, the central attacking midfielder

(Mkhitaryan) moves towards the available
passing lane.

The red centre back (4) moves to apply pressure

on him in case the ball is directed towards No.10.

The centre forward (9) moves to exploit the space

and Bender (6) plays the pass towards him into
the free space.

Creating Space for the Winger

After a pass from the centre back to the defensive

midfielder, Reus checks away from his marker to
create space and passes first time to the left back
Schmelzer (29) on the flank.

The left back is in possession and moves forward

while the centre forward (Lewandowski) makes
a movement towards the sideline. As the red
centre back (4) follows his movement, space is
created.

The left winger Reus (11) moves to exploit

the space created and receives the pass from
Schmelzer. The other two attacking midfielders
follow and a 3 v 2 situation is about to occur.

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The Centre Forward Creating Space in the Centre

Creating Space For the Winger and the Full Back (1)

This is an example of synchronised movements

between three players.

Hummels has the ball on the left and this time it is

Lewandowski who drops back to receive towards
the available passing lane. As his marker (red
No.4) follows him, space is created in the centre of
defence for the winger to exploit. This is because
the No.10 is in a deeper position.

Creating Space For the Winger and the Full Back (2)

Reus makes a movement to exploit the free space.

However, as the red No.2 follows him, space is
created on the flank too.

Hummels can pass either towards the path of

Reus or towards Schmelzer in the free space on
the flank. The pass towards Reus seems the best
option, however if the red No.2 manages to track
his run effectively, then space is definitely going to
be created on the flank.

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CHAPTER 5

Attacking Tactical Situation 3

Getting Free of Marking

Creating And Exploting Space On The Flank By The Same Player. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Tactical Analysis: Creating And Exploting Space On The Flank By The Same Player. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Analysis Of Getting Free Of Marking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Getting Free Of Marking With An Up And Down Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking With An Up And Down Movement (Winger). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking With An Up And Down Movement (Centre Forward). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Getting Free Of Marking By Dropping Deep. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking By Dropping Deep (Winger). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking By Dropping Deep (Centre Forward). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
1. Getting Free of Marking With an Up and Down Movement To Attack Forward Quickly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
2. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking With an Up and Down Movement and Passing in Behind the Defence. . . 94
3. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking With a Dropping Back Movement and Passing in Behind the Defence. . . 96
4. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking and Passing in Behind the Defence in a Dynamic Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
5. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking and Passing in Behind the Defence in a Dynamic Game (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

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Getting Free of Marking

Creating And Exploting Space On The Flank

By The Same Player
This combination could be used when there were no opponents near the target area and the attacking player
would seek to exploit this. It could be achieved more easily near the flanks where there was more available space.
The combination was achieved most of the time by the centre forward and the central attacking midfielder
(No.10) or by the winger and the central attacking midfielder.

Basic elements:
a. Good synchronisation between the players involved.
b. Carrying out the combination in the part of the field with available space (near the flanks).

Creating and Exploiting Space by the Same Player - Simple Passing

Combination
This situation, as already
mentioned, usually took place
near the flanks.

As the red full back (3) is in an

advanced position marking
Blaszczykowski, there are
good chances for a successful
combination. The centre
forward Lewandowski drops
back to where Mkhitaryan is
and the red defender (5) follows
Lewandowski’s movement.

The defender’s reaction creates

space which Lewandowski (9)
tries to exploit by passing to
Mkhitaryan (10) and moving
quickly forward again with a
curved run.

Mkhitaryan passes the ball into

Lewandowski’s path.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 3

Tactical Analysis: Creating And Exploting

Space On The Flank By The Same Player
Situation 1

In a two man defence, Hummels passes

towards the defensive midfielder (6). As
both defensive midfielders are beyond
the opposition forwards, the weak side’s
full back (26) is in a balanced deep
position. The left winger (11) Reus drops
back towards the passing lane. Red No.2
follows his run and space is created
behind his back. As the left back (29) is
in a deep position unable to exploit the
space, Reus passes to Mkhitaryan and
moves quickly to take advantage of the
free space himself. Mkhitaryan passes the
ball in behind into his path.

Situation 2

After two passes, the ball is in Sahin’s

(18) possession. As he has available time
on the ball and is able to pass forward,
Lewandowski (9) drops deeper to receive,
while Aubameyang (17) is positioned near
the sideline and is marked by red No.3.

Lewandowski’s movement creates space

behind his back as red No.5 follows
him. As there is no player to exploit this
space, Lewandowski passes first time to
Mkhitaryan (10) and moves immediately
to exploit the space he has created.
Mkhitaryan passes the ball in behind into
his path.

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Getting Free of Marking

Analysis Of Getting Free Of Marking

Getting free of marking is the attempt of an attacking player to check away from his marker, receive the ball
unmarked and if possible turn with the ball towards the opposition’s goal. It is a rather simple combination
between the man in possession (passer) and the player who wants to receive the ball unmarked.

Borussia’s players used two types of getting free of marking:

1. Getting Free Of Marking with an Up And Down Movement
2. Getting Free Of Marking by Dropping Deep

Basic elements:
a. Good synchronisation between the passer and the player receiving.
b. Timing of the movement towards the available passing lane from the potential receiver.
c. The accuracy of the man in possession’s pass.
d. Retaining balance in regards to the players’ positioning.

Borussia Dortmund’s players used up and down movements in some situations to unbalance their direct
opponents and create space for themselves.

In other situations they simply dropped back towards a passing lane and into space. On these occasions, the
opposition defenders would not normally follow the movement as they wanted to avoid space being created in
behind for a teammate. This would thus enable the forward/s to receive free of marking.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 3

Getting Free Of Marking With An Up And

Down Movement
Basic elements:
a. Good synchronisation between the passer and the player receiving.
b. Timing of the movement towards the available passing lane from the potential receiver.
c. Quality in turning with the ball.

In this situation, as
soon as Lewandowski
notices that the man in
possession Kehl (5) has
time on the ball, he makes
a movement towards the
opposition’s goal. As there
is an open ball situation,
red No.4 is forced to
follow his movement.
Suddenly he drops back
towards the passing lane
while No.4 is unbalanced.

The up and down

movement enables
Lewandowski to receive
and turn before No.4 is
able to close him down.

Lewandowski is thus able

to receive the ball and
turn without dropping too
deep.

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Getting Free of Marking

Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking

With An Up And Down Movement (Winger)
In this situation Hummels
makes the pass to the left back
Schmelzer who has available
time and space.

Reus makes a movement to

receive in behind and red No.2
follows his movement to prevent
him doing so. Reus then drops
suddenly back to receive the ball
in space and free of marking.

Reus receives and turns with

the ball and there is now a 4 v 4
situation in the final third.

The red No.2 moves to close him

down while his teammates make
movements to receive the killer
pass.

The right back Piszczek (29)

provides another passing option
in case the passes in behind are
blocked.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 3

Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking With

An Up And Down Movement (Centre Forward)
In this example, Lewandowski
reads the tactical situation and as
soon as Sahin (18) has available
time and space to pass forward
he makes an up and down
movement. This action leaves red
No.4 in an unbalanced position
as he follows Lewandowski’s
initial movement and is unable
to switch direction quickly
afterwards. Sahin is therefore able
to pass to Lewandowski who is
free of marking.

Lewandowski receives and turns

immediately while No.16, No.10
and No.26 move forward to
receive the next pass in behind
the defensive line.

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Getting Free of Marking

Getting Free Of Marking By Dropping Deep

On this occasion Lewandowski

drops back towards the potential
passing lane. Mkhitaryan moves
forward to retain balance and take
up the centre forward position.
Red No.4 decides not to follow
Lewandowski in order to avoid
creating space in behind. If were no
Dortmund players near No.4’s zone
of responsibility to take advantage
of the potential free space, No.4
would probably decide to follow
the centre forward’s movement.

Kehl passes to Lewandowski who

is free to receive and turn with the
ball towards the opposition goal.

This kind of combination enables

the forward to receive unmarked,
but in a deeper position compared
to the previous situation.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 3

Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking

By Dropping Deep (Winger)
Situation 1
In this situation Bender creates a 3 man
defence and receives from Hummels. As
there is an available passing lane between
red No.7 and 8, Reus drops back in order to
receive. Schmelzer moves in a coordinated
way by making a forward run. Red No.2 has a
dilemma whether to follow Reus or not. If he
follows Reus, space is going to be created on
the flank and Schmelzer is in a position to take
advantage of it. So red No.2 decides to defend
the space, control the forward movement
of Schmelzer and leave Reus unmarked.
If Schmelzer (29) did not make a forward
movement, no Dortmund player would be
able to exploit the potential free space and
No.2 would follow Reus’ movement.

Reus receives unmarked and turns with the

ball. A 5 v 4 situation is created (this could
sometimes be a 6 v 4 situation).

The 4 red defenders drop back while the

forwards make runs in behind to receive.
The two Dortmund full backs (26 and 29)
also provide passing options if the killer pass
cannot be achieved.

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Getting Free of Marking

Situation 2
In a similar situation to the previous one, as the
vertical passing lane is blocked, the ball ends
up in Gundogan’s (8) possession.

Reus drops back while Schmelzer makes a

forward run at the same time. Red No.2 decides
to defend the space instead of following Reus,
so he is therefore able to receive unmarked
and turn towards the opposition’s goal.

Situation 3

In this situation the difference is the

positioning of Lewandowski who is positioned
on the weak side.

As soon as Reus turns with the ball,

Aubemeyang (17) takes over the role of
the centre forward and makes a diagonal
movement to receive.

Situation 4

As Bender receives beyond the red

forwards again and is able to pass forward,
Blaszczykowski (16) drops back to receive. Red
No.3 does not follow him to avoid creating
space in behind, so Blaszczykowski receives
unmarked. No.6 manages to block the path
towards the inside, so Blaszczykowski turns
towards the outside and passes to the right
back breaking forward. Piszczek (26) can cross
into the box (3 v 3 inside). If red No.3 manages
to close him down, he can pass the ball back.

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Tactical Analysis: Getting Free Of Marking By

Dropping Deep (Centre Forward)
Situation 1
After two passes, the defensive midfielder
Bender receives beyond the 2 opposition
forwards. As soon as Bender receives
and turns, Lewandowski drops back to
get free of marking and No.10 retains
balance by moving forward. As red
No.5 does not follow Lewandowski, he
receives unmarked and turns with the
ball. Aubameyang makes a diagonal
movement to receive. Lewandowski can
now pass to Aubameyang in behind or if
this is not possible, pass to Piszczek who
is breaking forward.

Situation 2
In a similar situation to the previous one,
Lewandowski turns towards the inside.
Mkhitaryan and Reus make diagonal
movements.

Schmelzer also moves forward to

provide a passing option for the man in
possession in case the forward pass is not
possible. This reaction triggers the right
back (Piszczek) dropping back in order for
balance to be retained.

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Getting Free of Marking

Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices)

1. Getting Free of Marking With an Up and Down
Movement To Attack Forward Quickly

Objective
To develop getting free of marking with an up and down movement or by dropping deep.

Description
Left: Player C is inside a blue zone (8 x 20 yards). Player A passes to B and immediately after passing, A moves
towards the left or right and B passes back into his path. Player A receives back while player C moves forward
to touch the red cone on the same side, before dropping back (up and down movement). As soon as A dribbles
the ball through the gate (trigger for C to drop back) he passes to C who receives half turned and then passes
vertically into the mini goal or diagonally into the bigger goal.
Right: Player C moves towards the purple cone on the right or left. This determines the direction of A’s
movement after the pass to B. A passes to B and receives the back pass in his path. As soon as this takes place,
player C drops back. The pass towards him is made when A moves through the cone gate. C receives on the half
turn and then passes into the mini goal or diagonally into the bigger one. The players move one position forward
(A > B, B > C, C > A). After 7-8 minutes the groups switch sides.

Restrictions
C players should receive and pass within the blue zone. They have to use two touches (receiving on the move by
turning and passing).

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Attacking Tactical Situation 3

PROGRESSION
2. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking With an Up and
Down Movement and Passing in Behind the Defence

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Getting Free of Marking

Objective
To develop getting free of marking with an up and down movement and attacking combination play.

Description
The coach or goalkeeper starts the practice and two teams play 6 (+1) v 4 inside the large zone which is divided
into three sections. The coach or goalkeeper acts as an outside player to help maintain possession. The centre
forward (9) and the two wingers (11 and 17) are inside the blue zones.

The aim of the yellow players inside the large zone is to dribble the ball through the red end line. If this is
achieved through the sides (diagram 1), the winger on that side makes the up and down movement by first
touching the mannequin and then dropping back to receive the pass.

If a player dribbles through the middle section (diagram 2), then the centre forward is the player who makes the
up and down movement. The target player receives the pass and turns immediately while the other two players
make runs to receive in behind the mannequins and in the mini goals.

If the reds win possession, they try to dribble the ball through the end line on the other side.

Restrictions
1. The coach/goalkeeper is limited to 1 touch or has to pass the ball back into play within 3 seconds.
2. Restrict the number of passes completed e.g. 3-4 before the yellows are allowed to dribble the ball through
the red line.
Coaching Points
1. Players need to be able to read the tactical situation to decide which movements and passes to make.
2. The target player needs to turn quickly with a quality first touch on the half turn.
3. The final pass needs to be played quickly with accuracy and the correct weight.
4. The shot should also be taken quickly and the focus is on accuracy.
5. Synchronisation in the players’ movements is very important for the rhythm of the practice.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 3

VARIATION
3. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking With a Dropping
Back Movement and Passing in Behind the Defence

Objective
To develop getting free of marking by dropping deep and attacking combination play.

Description
The 2 teams play 4 (+3) v 3 inside the large zone. The 3 outside players (1, 29 & 26) are limited to 1 touch or pass
back into play within 3 seconds. The centre forward (9) is inside the high central yellow zone and the 2 wingers
are inside the smaller side zones. The No.10 is inside the central blue zone.

The aim of the yellow players is the same, but the cones now outline 3 narrower lanes. As soon as the ball is
dribbled past the red line, the respective player (9, 11 or 17) drops back into a blue zone, receives on the half turn
and passes in behind for one of his 3 teammates.

If the man in possession dribbles the ball through a purple line at the side, the winger on that side drops back to
receive and if this takes place in the middle (red line), the player who drops back is the centre forward. If the reds
win possession, they try to dribble the ball through the red end line on the other side.

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Getting Free of Marking

PROGRESSION
4. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking and Passing in
Behind the Defence in a Dynamic Game

Objective
To develop getting free of marking with an up and down movement or by dropping deep and attacking
combinations against active defenders.

Description
Using 2/3 of a full sized pitch, two teams play 6 (+1) v 4 inside the white zone. The four red defenders take up
positions in the yellow zones (2 yard gap between them).

The centre forward (9) can move freely in both yellow central zones (7 x 7 yards each) and the two wingers (11
and 17) are positioned inside the two zones near the sidelines (9 x 7 yards). The No.10 takes up a position inside
the central blue zone. The centre forward must always be on the strong side and the No.10 takes up a position on
the weak side.

The yellow players inside the white zone try to dribble the ball through the end line (red, purple or white). As
soon as this happens, the respective player makes either drops back or makes an up and down movement into a

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blue zone. The target player (No.11 in diagram) should receive on the half turn and pass in behind for one of his 3
teammates to score in the goal past the goalkeeper.

If the ball is dribbled through a white line, the winger on that side must use an up and down movement to get
free of marking. If the ball is dribbled through a purple line, the winger on that side can use either option (up and
down or dropping back), and finally if the ball is dribbled through the red line, the centre forward can also use
either option.

If the reds win the ball, there are no restrictions in regards to the zones and they try to score in the 2 mini goals
within 8-10 seconds.

Restrictions
1. The coach/goalkeeper is limited to 1 touch or must pass the ball back into play within 3 seconds.
2. The red defenders follow their opponents initial up movement, but they leave them to drop back and receive
free of marking.
3. The red defenders do not follow their opponents at all if they use the dropping back movement.
4. When defending, the 4 red defenders are not allowed to move outside of their yellow zones.
5. Restrict the number of passes to complete e.g. 3-4 before the yellows are allowed to dribble the ball through
the red line.

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Getting Free of Marking

PROGRESSION
5. Building Up, Getting Free of Marking and Passing in
Behind the Defence in a Dynamic Game (2)

Description
In this progression to the previous practice, we add two defensive midfielders for the red team. They take up
positions in between the low zone and the other zones.

The yellow players inside the low zone do not have to dribble the ball through the end line this time. Instead
they can make forward passes from within the zone. The 2 new red defensive midfielders try to block or intercept
these passes.

The 3 forwards have to recognise the tactical situation (when the ball carrier can pass forwards) and use the
appropriate option to get free of marking.

If the reds win the ball, there are no restrictions in regards to the zones and they try to score within 8-10 seconds.
The restrictions are the same as the previous practice.

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CHAPTER 5

ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATION 4

Creating and Exploiting Space in

the 2nd Stage of Attack
with Passing Combinations
Creating Space In The 2nd Stage And Exploiting It With Passing Combinations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Creating Space In The 2Nd Stage With Simple Passing Combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Tactical Analysis: Creating Space In The 2Nd Stage And Exploiting It With A Simple Passing Combination . . . . . . 103
Tactical Analysis: Creating Space In The 2Nd Stage And Exploiting It With A Complex Passing Combination . . . . 104
Tactical Analysis: Creating Space In The Centre And Exploiting It With A Complex Passing Combination. . . . . . . . 105
Tactical Analysis: Creating And Exploiting Space Near The Sidelines In The 2nd Stage Of Attack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
1. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing Combination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
2. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing Combination in a Dynamic Zonal Practice. . . . . . . . . . . 110
3. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing Combination in a Dynamic Zonal Practice (2). . . . . . . . 112
4. Creating and Exploiting Space on the Flanks with a Complex Passing Combination in a Dynamic Zonal SSG. . . . 114
5. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing Combination in a Dynamic Zonal 11 v 11 Game . . . . . 115

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Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage of Attack

Creating Space In The 2nd Stage And

Exploiting It With Passing Combinations
Several times during the combination of the players with the aim of creating space, the attempt was not
successful in the 1st stage, but was in the 2nd stage. This was due to the defender’s decision not to follow the
forward player immediately after carrying out his movement (1st stage), but rather as soon as the pass towards
him was made (2nd stage). However, space was still created and the players tried to exploit it either using a
simple passing combination or a more complex passing combination.

To create space in the 2nd stage, there were two types of combination from Borussia Dortmund:

1. Creating Space in the 2nd Stage and Exploiting it with a Simple Passing Combination
2. Creating Space in the 2nd Stage and Exploiting It with a Complex Passing Combination

Basic elements:

a. Good synchronisation between the players involved.

b. Balance in regards to the players’ positioning.
c. Proper passing technique.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 4

Creating Space In The 2nd Stage With Simple

Passing Combinations
The passing combinations which led to creating and exploiting space with simple passing combinations were
different variations of the third man run. The only difference in these situations is that the third man not only
makes a well timed run, but also attacks the created space.

Creating Space in the 2nd Stage and Exploiting It with a Third Man Run

Bender (6) moves forward with

the ball and has available time
and space to make a forward
pass. Lewandowski (9) drops deep
towards a potential passing lane
and Mkhitaryan makes a forward
movement as soon as he notices
it.

The red defender No.4 does not

follow Lewandowski at this stage
of the combination.

As soon as Bender makes

the forward pass towards
Lewandowski, red No.4 decides
to move to close him down and
apply pressure (2nd stage of
the combination). Mkhitaryan
(10) is already on the move
and continues his run towards
the space created by the
forward movement of red No.4
and receives the one touch
pass by No.9. In order for this
combination to be successful,
there should be a short distance
between the centre forward and
the third man.

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Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage of Attack

Tactical Analysis: Creating Space In The 2nd

Stage And Exploiting It With A Simple Passing
Combination
Situation 1

Hummels moves forward with the ball and As soon as Hummels passes to Lewandowski, red No.4
Lewandowski drops back to provide a passing option. moves to close him down and space is created behind
As the passing lane towards No.10 is narrow and there him. No.10 seeks to exploit it with a forward run (third
is no possibility of receiving a pass, No.10 retains man run) and Lewandowski makes a first time pass
balance by moving forward into the centre forward into his path. At the same time Bender (6) drops back
position. to provide safety by retaining a numerical advantage
of 3 v 2.

Situation 2

Sahin has available space. Lewandowski drops As soon as the ball is passed to Lewandowski, red
back while No.10 is in a deep position. Reus (11) No.4 moves to close him down. Reus continues his run
notices Lewandowski’s movement and moves towards the free space and receives the first time pass
forward to retain balance. Red No.4 does not follow from Lewandowski in behind the defensive line.
Lewandowski’s 1st stage action.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 4

Tactical Analysis: Creating Space In The

2nd Stage And Exploiting It With A Complex
Passing Combination
In these kind of combinations, 3 Borussia Dortmund players were involved plus the passer.

Sahin moves forward with the ball.

Lewandowski (9) drops back towards
the available passing lane and the
red defender (5) does not follow his
movement.

Mkhitaryan (10) is behind the red

midfielder (6) and as he notices
Lewandowski dropping back, he
moves forward into a centre forward
position to retain balance for the
team.

As soon as Sahin makes the pass

towards Lewandowski (9), the red
defender (5) moves to close him
down.

No.10 continues his run towards

the created space and receives
in behind after two consecutive
passes. Lewandowski passes to
Blaszczykowski (16) and he passes first
time into Mkhitaryan’s path.

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Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage of Attack

Tactical Analysis: Creating Space In The

Centre And Exploiting It With A Complex
Passing Combination
Situation 1

The ball is with Sahin after two

consecutive passes (Sokratis to
Piszczek and Piszczek to Sahin).

As soon as Sahin receives the ball

and has available time to make the
forward pass, Lewandowski drops
back to provide a passing option
and at the same time Mkhitaryan
(10) moves into the centre forward
position to maintain balance.

Sahin passes to Lewandowski (9).

As soon as the pass is made, red
No.5 moves to close him down and
Mkhitaryan moves to exploit the
space in behind him.

Lewandowski passes first time to

Aubameyang (17) who passes first
time to Mkhitaryan in behind the
defensive line and into the free space
created. This combination demands
well synchronised movements as well
as quick and precise passes.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 4

Situation 2

This is a variation of the previous situation.

Mkhitaryan is deeper this time and that is why
Reus (11) moves towards the centre.

Lewandowski drops back to provide a passing

option and the red defender (5) does not
follow him because he does not want to leave
space in behind.

Sahin makes a forward pass to Lewandowski

and as soon as the pass is made, the red
defender (5) moves to put pressure on
Borussia Dortmund’s centre forward.

Lewandowski passes first time to Aubameyang

(17) who plays a first time pass into the path of
Reus and in behind the defensive line into the
free space created.

Situation 3

This is another example of how the complex

passing combination is carried out in order to
direct the ball towards the player who takes
advantage of the free space. Sahin passes to
Lewandowski (9) and as soon as the pass is
made, red No.5 moves to apply pressure on
him.

At the same time, Reus moves towards the

created space. Lewandowski passes first time
to Mkhitaryan (10) and he passes into the free
space and into the path of Reus.

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Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage of Attack

Situation 4

This is another option of creating and

exploiting the free space in the 2nd stage.
Sahin drops back while Bender moves into a
more advanced position. The ball ends up in
Sahin’s possession again.

Lewandowski drops back to provide a passing

option, while Mkhitaryan moves forward.
Red No.5 does not follow the movement, but
instead waits for the pass to be made to avoid
creating space in behind.

As soon as the pass is directed to

Lewandowski, No.5 moves to put pressure on
him. Lewandowski passes inside to Bender
who has moved into an advanced position.

Mkhitaryan moves to exploit the space behind

No.5 and Bender (6) after receiving behind
the opposition midfielders, dribbles forward
a couple of yards and passes the ball into
Mkhitaryan’s path (and into the free space
created).

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Attacking Tactical Situation 4

Tactical Analysis: Creating And Exploiting

Space Near The Sidelines In The 2nd Stage
Of Attack
Situation 1

Bender drops back and receives the ball from As soon as Bender receives the pass, the red right back
Hummels. He then moves forward with the ball, while (2) moves to put pressure on Reus.
Reus drops back to provide a passing option. The red
right back (2) leaves Reus without marking to avoid Lewandowski sees the space and moves towards it.
creating space for Lewandowski who is on the strong Reus makes a first time pass to Mkhitaryan who then
side. passes into the free space for Lewandowski.

Situation 2

In a similar situation to the previous one, the centre As soon as Bender passes to Reus, the red right back
forward Lewandowski is on the weak side this time. (2) moves to put pressure on him. At the same time,
Mkhitaryan moves into the space created behind
Bender moves forward with the ball and Reus drops No.2. Reus passes first time to Blaszczykowski (16)
back to receive. who then passes into the free space created and into
Mkhitaryan‘s path.

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Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage of Attack

Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices)

1. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex
Passing Combination

Objective
To work on creating and exploiting space in the 2nd stage using a complex passing combination.

Description
The practice starts at the same time on both sides.

Right: Player A passes to B who plays a 1-2 combination with the defensive midfielder (C). As soon as this takes
place (1st trigger), player E (centre forward) drops back and player F (No.10) moves towards the created space. B
passes to E as soon as he dribbles the ball through the cone gate (2nd trigger). E passes either towards D (No.10)
or towards C who moves forward to provide support. C or D then pass into Player F’s path who enters the blue
zone. Player F then dribbles the ball forward and passes to G.

Left: Player G plays a 1-2 combination with H and then passes again into Player H’s path. As soon as H receives
(1st trigger), player J (winger) drops back and Player K (centre forward) moves towards the blue zone. Player J
receives H’s pass as soon as he has dribbled through the cone gate (2nd trigger). J passes to player I (No.10) who
then passes into Player K’s path who enters the blue zone, dribbles forward and finishes the sequence by passing
back to the start.

Coaching Points
1. Monitor the speed, weight and accuracy of all passes as this is key to performing this practice well.
2. There needs to be good synchronisation between the timing of passes and the players’ movements.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 4

PROGRESSION
2. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing
Combination in a Dynamic Zonal Practice

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Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage of Attack

Objective
Creating and exploiting space in the 2nd stage near the sidelines using complex passing combination.

Description
Using a full sized pitch, we mark out the zones and place 3 mannequins as shown in the diagram.

In the dark blue zone, the coach or goalkeeper starts the practice and there is a 3 (+4) v 2 situation. The 4 outside
players are the goalkeeper (1), the full backs (29 and 26) and the defensive midfielder (18) who is in the white
zone.

Two wingers are positioned inside the light blue zones near the sidelines. The centre forward (9) takes up a
position inside one of the central zones and the No.10 is positioned in between the 2 sets of zones. These two
players try to be on opposite sides as long as the ball is in the dark blue zone.

The aim of the yellow players is to pass to the winger. As soon as one of the yellow players within the dark blue
zone has available time to make the forward pass, the winger on that side (11 in diagram) drops back to provide
a passing option. The respective player (No.10 in diagram 1 or the centre forward in diagram 2) moves to take
advantage of the created space near the sideline.

The winger passes to either the defensive midfielder (diagram 1) or the No.10 (diagram 2). The final pass is either
into the path of the No.10 (diagram 1) or the centre forward (9) into the created space. That player then crosses
the ball for his teammates to score.

If the reds win the ball, they try to score in the two mini goals.

Restrictions
1. The outside players (1, 29, 26 and 18) are limited to 1 touch or must play it back into the zone within 3
seconds.
2. Restrict the number of passes to be completed e.g. 3-4 before the yellows are allowed to attempt the forward
pass.

Coaching Points
1. Players need to be able to read the tactical situation in relation to their positioning on the strong side and
who to pass to and when.
2. The coaching points from the previous practice still apply.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 4

VARIATION
3. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing
Combination in a Dynamic Zonal Practice (2)

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Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage of Attack

Description
In this variation, we now have just central zones outside the penalty area. The centre forward takes up a position
inside one of the two light blue zones and the No.10 is inside the red ones. The two wingers (11 and 17) take up
positions next to the white cones.

The two teams play 3 (+4) v 2 inside the dark blue zone while the centre forward (9) tries to stay on the strong
side and the No.10 on the weak side.

As soon as one of the yellow players inside the dark blue zone has available time to make the forward pass, the
centre forward (9) drops back into the red zone on the strong side to provide a passing option. The No.10 makes
a diagonal run to take advantage of the created space on the strong side.

The centre forward passes to either the winger on that side (diagram 1) or the defensive midfielder (diagram
2). That player then makes the final pass into the light blue zone and into the path of the No.10 who receives,
dribbles forwards and tries to score past the goalkeeper.

If the reds win the ball, they try to score in the two mini goals. The restrictions are the same as the previous
practice.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 4

PROGRESSION
4. Creating and Exploiting Space on the Flanks with a
Complex Passing Combination in a Dynamic Zonal SSG

Description
In this progression, we add 2 channels at the sides as shown where the wingers (11 and 17) are positioned. There
are now 4 red defenders inside the light blue zones who have to follow their direct opponents when they drop
deep. They do not follow them immediately, but as soon as the pass towards them is made.

The two teams play 3 (+3) v 3 inside the low zone. The No.9 and No.10 take up positions on opposite sides. As
soon as one of the yellow players inside the dark blue zone has available time to make the forward pass, the
respective player (11 in diagram) drops back to provide a passing option. The created space is exploited and the
pass is directed towards this area after a passing combination with No.18. The yellow players try to score and the
reds try to win possession to score in the 2 mini goals.

Restrictions
1. Outside players (1, 29, 26 & 18) have 1 touch or must play back into the zone within 3 seconds.
2. The red defenders are not allowed to enter the other light blue zones, but they can move out of their zone in
order to defend (e.g. against a potential cross).
Coaching Point
Players need to read the tactical situation to create/exploit space in the centre or near the sidelines.

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Creating and Exploiting Space in the 2nd Stage of Attack

PROGRESSION
5. Creating and Exploiting Space with a Complex Passing
Combination in a Dynamic Zonal 11 v 11 Game

Description
In this progression, we add 3 midfielders for the red team in place of the mannequins.

The two teams play 6 (+ GK) v 3 in the dark blue zone and the yellow players try play a pass through these 3 red
midfielders (6, 7 and 8). One of the forward players (9 in diagram) needs to drop back to create space and then
the yellows need to exploit the free space created through a passing combination. If the reds win possession,
they try to score within 8-10 seconds.

Restrictions
1. The red defenders are not allowed to enter the other light blue zones, but they can move out of their zone in
order to defend.
2. The 3 red midfielders are also not allowed to move out of their areas, unless there is a forward pass towards
one of the yellow forwards.
3. If the reds win possession, there are no restrictions in regards to the zones.
4. Restrict the number of passes to be completed (e.g. 3-4) before the forward pass can be made.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 5

ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATION 5

Overloading on the Flank with

The Centre Back or Defensive
Midfielder
Analysis Of Overloading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Overloading: The Centre Back Or Defensive Midfielder Move Forward With The Ball And Towards The Flank. . . . 118
Tactical Analysis: The Centre Back Or Defensive Midfielder Moves Forward
With The Ball And Towards The Flank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
1. Running with the Ball Out From the Back and Creating a Numerical Advantage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
2. Creating a Numerical Advantage on the Flank in a 3 v 2 Exercise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
3. Creating a Numerical Advantage on the Flank (3 v 2) in an 8 v 8 Dynamic Small Sided Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
4. Creating a Numerical Advantage on the Flank (3 v 2) in an 11 v 11 Game with Side Zones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

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Overloading on the Flank with The Centre Back or Defensive Midfielder

Analysis Of Overloading

Overloading is the attempt of a player to create superiority in numbers against the opposition by making a
movement towards a specific part of the field.

During Borussia Dortmund’s attacking play, overloading was created by:

1. One of the players (centre back or defensive midfielder) from the back moving forward with the ball towards a
specific part of the field.
2. One of the forward players moving towards a specific part of the field in order to receive the ball.

When Borussia Dortmund had to deal with two opposition forwards, the players would create a three man
defence in several situations. This reaction enabled them to outnumber the opposition and move forward more
easily by directing the ball to the free man at the back. This player could move forward and create an overload
near the sideline.

Basic elements:
a. The man in possession needs to have good technique (e.g. Hummels, Sahin or Gundogan).
b. Players need to be able to quickly read the tactical situation.
c. The players need to also have good passing technique within limited space and time.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 5

Overloading: The Centre Back Or Defensive

Midfielder Move Forward With The Ball And
Towards The Flank
In this situation, Hummels is the player who has
space available and moves forward.

He moves towards the left flank where a 3 v 2

situation is created and one Borussia Dortmund
player (Schmelzer) is free of marking.

The red No.7 moves to apply pressure on

Hummels. This reaction leaves Schmelzer free
of marking. Reus makes a movement towards
the available passing lane to provide a passing
option and at the same time creates more space
for Borussia Dortmund’s left back (29) as red No.2
moves to mark him.

Hummels passes the ball to Schmelzer who is the

free player within the ball area.

In this situation, red No.7 applies pressure on

Hummels in a way that prevents the direct pass
towards Schmelzer.

Borussia Dortmund’s aim is to move the ball

to the free player. As the direct pass towards
Schmelzer is blocked, Reus drops back towards
the available passing lane to become a link
player. Hummels passes to him and the ball is
directed to Schmelzer through Reus.

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Overloading on the Flank with The Centre Back or Defensive Midfielder

Tactical Analysis: The Centre Back Or

Defensive Midfielder Moves Forward With
The Ball And Towards The Flank
Hummels moves further forward with the ball
and creates a 3 v 2 situation on the left. This
action was sometimes carried out by Sahin or
Gundogan who were the most technically skilled
defensive midfielders, but not from Bender or
Kehl.

To retain balance at the back, the defensive

midfielder Bender drops back into a covering
position and Sahin stays in a balanced position
close to the defenders.

The red No.7 decides to put pressure on

Hummels and Schmelzer stays free of marking.
Borussia Dortmund’s aim is to find a way to pass
the ball to him.

As red No.7 is blocking the direct pass to

Schmelzer, Reus drops back towards the
available passing lane to be the link player in
order for the ball to be passed to Schmelzer.
Schmelzer finally receives and moves forward.

After the pass to Schmelzer, a 2 v 1 situation is

created on the flank. As the red right back (2)
moves to apply pressure on Borussia Dortmund’s
left back (Schmelzer), Reus makes a movement
towards the available space in behind him on the
flank.

Reus receives the pass down the line from

Schmelzer and crosses the ball into the box,
targeting 3 Dortmund players (9, 10 and 16).

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Attacking Tactical Situation 5

If the No.7 applies pressure, but leaves the direct

pass towards Schmelzer unblocked, Hummels
can pass directly to Borussia Dortmund’s left
back Schmelzer (29).

As the red right back (2) has to move to apply

pressure on Schmelzer, Reus moves to take
advantage of the 2 v 1 situation on the flank by
making an underlapping run into the space.

Reus receives the pass down the line in behind

the right back and crosses for the 3 teammates
making runs into the penalty area.

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Overloading on the Flank with The Centre Back or Defensive Midfielder

Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices)

1. Running with the Ball Out From the Back and Creating
a Numerical Advantage

Objective
To create a numerical superiority with the centre back or defensive midfielder near the sideline.

Description
The practice is in a 30 x 30 yard area. Players A and Player E start the practice at the same time.

Right: Player A passes into B’s path. B dribbles the ball through the cone gate and player D drops back to
provide a passing option and create space. However, as the first mannequin is positioned in a way that prevents
the vertical pass, as soon as B moves through the cone gate (trigger), he passes directly to Player C. Player D
then changes direction and moves towards the sideline. He receives the next pass from C behind the second
mannequin and dribbles through the white cone gate, then passes to E.

Left: Player E passes into F’s path who receives on the run and dribbles through the cone gate. At the same time,
H drops back to provide a passing option and G moves forward. H passes first time to G who moves forward and
then makes passes back to Player H into his pacth. H dribbles through the cone gate and passes back to the start.
All players move one position forward.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 5

PROGRESSION
2. Creating a Numerical Advantage on the Flank in a 3 v 2
Exercise

Description
The practice starts at the same time on both sides. The blue zones are 15 x 25 yards (divided into two equal
sections) and the one red player is positioned in each section. On each side, there is one in the high zone and one
in the low zone who are not allowed to leave their respective zones.

The first passes are into the path of the forward moving yellow players (15 and 18). These players enter the blue
zones with the ball and together with their teammates, try to take advantage of the numerical superiority (3 v 2)
and dribble the ball through the red line. The yellow players try to pass the ball to their free teammate and then
achieve their aim. The player who manages to dribble the ball through the red line moves to the start, while the
other players move one position forward.

Coaching Points
1. Increase the speed of play so the ball is always moving quickly.
2. Monitor the speed, weight and accuracy of all passes as this is key to performing this practice well.
3. There needs to be good synchronisation between the timing of passes and the players’ movements.

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Overloading on the Flank with The Centre Back or Defensive Midfielder

PROGRESSION
3. Creating a Numerical Advantage on the Flank (3 v 2) in
an 8 v 8 Dynamic Small Sided Game

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Attacking Tactical Situation 5

Description
In this progression, two teams play 8 v 7 (+GK) within a 55 x 45 yard area. We have the same blue zones and there
is a 2 v 2 situation in each.

There are 3 yellow players and 2 reds in the defensive half. In the attacking half there is a yellow centre forward (9)
and a red centre back (5). The coach starts the practice by passing the ball towards one side. Either No.25, No.15
or No.18 receives and enters the blue zone to create a 3 v 2 situation.

The player who receives moves forward with the ball and tries together with his teammates to take advantage
of the numerical superiority (3 v 2) and dribble the ball through the red line (diagram 1) or receive a pass beyond
the red line (diagram 2).

The offside rule is applied. As soon as the ball leaves the blue zone, there are no longer any restrictions. The
yellows try to score while the reds try to win the ball and counter attack (towards the mini goals).

Restrictions
1. The 4 red players (9, 8, 7 and 11) can only enter their defensive half after the ball has been passed to a yellow
player inside this area.
2. The defenders inside the blue zone are not allowed to defend outside of it.
3. If the reds win the ball, they must score in the 2 mini goals within 10 seconds.

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Overloading on the Flank with The Centre Back or Defensive Midfielder

PROGRESSION
4. Creating a Numerical Advantage on the Flank (3 v 2) in
an 11 v 11 Game with Side Zones

Description
In this progression, we now play in 2/3 of a full sized pitch. The two teams play 11 v 11 and we add a second full
sized goal as shown. The yellow goalkeeper starts the practice.

The yellow players try to take advantage of the superiority in numbers inside the blue zones (still 15 x 25 yards)
by creating a 3 v 2 situation. They then try to dribble the ball through the red line or receive beyond it and then
deliver a cross into the penalty area or shoot at goal.

The reds try to defend successfully, win the ball and then finish their counter attack within 8-10 seconds.

Restrictions
1. Only the red full back and winger can defend inside the blue side zones.
2. These two players are not allowed to defend beyond the red line.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 6

ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATION 6

Overloading on the Flank or in

the Centre with a Forward Moving
to Receive
Overloading On The Flank Or In The Centre With The ‘No.10’ Moving To Receive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Tactical Analysis: Overloading On The Flank Or In The Centre With The No.10 Moving To Receive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Tactical Analysis: Overloading On The Flank Or In The Centre With The No.9 Moving To Receive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
1. Creating a Numerical Advantage On the Flank with a Forward Moving to Receive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
2. Overloading - Forward Moving to Receive Towards the Flank in a Functional Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
3. Overloading on the Flank with a Forward Moving to Receive in a Dynamic Zonal Small Sided Game. . . . . . . . . 136
4. Overloading on the Flank with a Forward Moving to Receive in an 11 v 11 Zonal Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

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Overloading on the Flank or in the Centre with a Forward Moving to Receive

Overloading On The Flank Or In The Centre

With The ‘No.10’ Moving To Receive
The overloading created by the movement of one of the forwards could take place either near the sideline or in
the centre.

Basic elements:
a. Movement towards the available passing lane.
b. Good technique when receiving and turning with the ball.

Situation 1
The left winger Reus is positioned
near the sideline.

The No.10 Mkhitaryan moves

towards the passing lane on the
left and creates a 2 v 1 situation.
This action makes it difficult for
the red right back (2) as he has
two players to mark within his
zone of responsibility.

As soon as the pass is made

towards No.10, the red right back
(2) decides to put him under
pressure.

This reaction leaves Reus (11)

unmarked, so if Mkhitaryan
manages to pass the ball to him,
Borussia Dortmund can break
through the opposition defence.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 6

Situation 2
In this variation, the red right back
(2) decides not to put pressure
on No.10, so he is able to receive
unmarked and turn towards the
opposition’s goal.

Reus and Mkhitaryan are then

able to take advantage of the
2 v 1 situation on the flank.

Situation 3
In this situation, Reus (11) is in an
advanced position towards the
centre.

Mkhitaryan (10) moves towards

the passing lane again and in
front of Reus.

This creates a 2 v 1 situation

within the opposition right back’s
zone of responsibility.

Mkhitaryan (10) receives the pass

from Hummels and as the red
right back (2) stays close to him,
he is able to turn towards the
opposition’s goal again.

Reus can then move towards the

inside or the outside depending
on the left back Schmelzer’s
position. A similar situation to
this can be created in the centre
as well.

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Overloading on the Flank or in the Centre with a Forward Moving to Receive

Tactical Analysis: Overloading On The Flank

Or In The Centre With The No.10 Moving
To Receive

Situation 1
In this tactical situation
Mkhitaryan moves towards the
available passing lane on the
strong side (left in diagram).

This movement in front of the red

right back (2) creates a

2 v 1 situation as the opponent

has two players to mark. This
prevents him from moving
forward and putting pressure on
No.10.

Mkhitaryan receives unmarked

and turns. This creates a 4 v 4
situation.

Red No.2 has to drop back as he

is between two players and the
rest of the defenders do the same.
Mkhitaryan (10) has 3 passing
options as No.9 and No.16 make
diagonal runs to receive the final
pass and No.11 moves towards
the sideline ready to receive and
cross the ball into the box.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 6

In a similar situation to the previous

one, the difference is that Schmelzer
takes part in the attack too with a
forward run. This creates a
5 v 4 situation as red No.7 does not
track Schmelzer’s run.

Reus makes a run inside in order

to create space for the left back
Schmelzer and enter the box to be
an extra man if Schmelzer crosses the
ball.

Situation 2
In this situation, the No.10
Mkhitaryan moves to receive in
front of Lewandowski. This creates
an overload in this specific part of
the field as red No.5 (centre back)
has 2 players within his zone of
responsibility. This prevents him from
moving forward to put pressure on
the new man in possession.

Mkhitaryan is able to receive and turn

towards the opposition goal.

The defenders drop back to prevent

the vertical pass towards the
forwards, but the pass towards the
right back breaking forward is free.

Piszczek (26) receives and is able to

deliver a cross into the penalty area.

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Overloading on the Flank or in the Centre with a Forward Moving to Receive

Tactical Analysis: Overloading On The Flank

Or In The Centre With The No.9 Moving
To Receive
Situation 1

Hummels has the ball on the left again and as

Mkhitaryan is on the weak side, Lewandowski
drops back in front of Reus to create a 2 v 1
situation (because No.4 does not follow his
movement).

Bender moves into an advanced position

and No.29 is also in an advanced position.
Sahin (18) drops back to retain balance. The
pass is directed to Lewandowski who has the
chance to turn as No.2 stays with Reus (11).
So Lewandowski receives unmarked, turns
and passes to No.29 who makes a forward
run. 3 Dortmund players enter the box to for
the cross.

Situation 2

As soon as Sahin receives and is able to pass

forward, Lewandowski (9) drops back in
front of Blaszczykowski (17) to receive. This
movement creates an overload in the blue
area in the diagram.

The red left back (3) is not able to mark 2

players so he leaves Lewandowski to receive
without marking. Mkhitaryan (10) moves
forward into a centre forward’s position to
retain balance.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 6

Lewandowski turns and as the defenders

do not drop back, he can pass either to
Mkhitaryan (10) who makes a diagonal
run or to the right back breaking forward
(Piszczek - 26).

Situation 3
In this situation, when Sahin passes to
Lewandowski, the red left back (3) decides
to put pressure on him even though
Aubameyang (17) is already within his zone
of responsibility.

As soon as Aubameyang (17) notices this

movement, he moves towards the sideline
to provide a passing option. Lewandowski
makes a first time pass without turning
towards him high up on the right flank.

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Overloading on the Flank or in the Centre with a Forward Moving to Receive

Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices)

1. Creating a Numerical Advantage On the Flank with a
Forward Moving to Receive

Objective
We work on combination play to create a numerical advantage on the flank.

Description
In a 30 x 30 yard area, the practice starts with Player A and Player F at the same time.

Right: Player A passes into B’s path who moves forward, receives and dribbles the ball through the cone gate.
Player C makes a movement in front of D. Player B passes to C as soon as he dribbles through the cone gate
(trigger). Player C turns within the blue area (5 x 7 yards) and passes into the path of D who has already opened
up to get free of (the mannequin’s) marking. Player D receives on the move, plays a 1-2 combination with Player E
and then passes to F.

Left: Player F passes into G’s path who moves forward, receives and dribbles the ball through the cone gate. H
drops back in front of the mannequin (the player who puts pressure on him) and Player I opens up to provide a
passing option immediately. G passes to H when he dribbles the ball through the cone gate (trigger) and then
receives and makes a first time pass without turning towards Player I. Player I plays a 1-2 combination with Player
J and then passes to A. All players move one position forward.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 6

PROGRESSION
2. Overloading - Forward Moving to Receive Towards the
Flank in a Functional Practice

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Overloading on the Flank or in the Centre with a Forward Moving to Receive

Description
In this progression we play in 2/3 of a full pitch. There is a blue zone (15 x 35 yards) divided into 8 equal sections
as shown in the diagram. The centre forward and the two wingers take up positions inside the higher sections of
the zones and the No.10 moves freely inside the lower sections.

The practice starts with the 2 centre backs who pass the ball to each other, before deciding when to move
forward (diagram 2) or pass towards a red zone for the full back (diagrams 1 and 3). This action determines if the
full back will be able to take part in the attack or not (in diagrams 1 and 3 he is unable to take part due to his low
position).

As soon as a centre back moves forward with the ball (trigger), the No.10 moves to receive and turns into the
appropriate area where a teammate already is to create an overload. He can then either pass towards the
sidelines (option 1) or makes a killer pass (option 2). The new man in possession either shoots at goal or crosses
into the box. There can be 4 forwards ready to take up positions inside the blue areas in order for the practice to
be executed quickly and for the players to have a rest.

Variation
The overload can be obtained by the centre forward dropping back. In order for this to take place, the No.10 stays
on the weak side (or at least away from the strong side).

Restriction
The wingers stay inside their zones, whereas the centre forward can move freely in or out of the 2 high central
zones.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 6

PROGRESSION
3. Overloading on the Flank with a Forward Moving to
Receive in a Dynamic Zonal Small Sided Game

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Overloading on the Flank or in the Centre with a Forward Moving to Receive

Description
In this progression of the previous practice, we add 4 red defenders. The practice starts with the goalkeeper or
coach and the two teams play 4 (+3) v 2 (+1) within the low zone. One of the red defensive midfielders (6 or 8)
enters this area to provide help to his teammates.

The aim of the yellow players is to find a way to pass the ball forward, while the reds try to win possession and
score in the 2 mini goals.

As soon as a yellow player can make the forward pass, the No.10 or the centre forward move to create an
overload on the flank and try to take advantage to score a goal.

In the diagram examples, the No.10 receives, turns and passes towards the sidelines for either the advancing full
back (diagram 1) or the winger who makes a curved run (diagram 2). The player who receives crosses the ball into
the box for the oncoming runners to finish and score.

Restrictions
1. The red defenders have to stay within their zones until the ball has been played towards the sidelines and
beyond the red line.
2. Only one of the red defensive midfielders can enter the first zone.

Coaching Points
1. The No.10 (or No.9) needs to display high quality and speed when turning.
2. There needs to be the correct weight and accuracy in all passes.
3. Players need to have good synchronisation in their movements to create space and then score.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 6

PROGRESSION
4. Overloading on the Flank with a Forward Moving to
Receive in an 11 v 11 Zonal Game

Description
In another progression, the two teams play 11 v 11 and we add a second full sized goal. The first zone (6 (+GK) v
5) is now the full width of the pitch and an extra white zone is added as shown.

As soon as the yellows are able to pass the ball forward, the No.10 or the centre forward try to create an overload
and take advantage of it in order to score a goal as shown in the previous practice. If the reds win the ball, they
counter attack and must score within 8-10 seconds.

Restrictions
1. The red defenders have to stay within their zones until the ball has been played towards the sidelines and
beyond the red line.
2. Only one of the red defensive midfielders can enter the first zone.
3. Once the forward pass is successful for the yellows or if the reds gain possession, there are no restrictions in
regards to the zones.
4. Restrict the amount of passes required e.g. 3-4 before the forward pass can be made.

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Passing Combination: Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass

ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATION 7

Passing Combination: Vertical or

Diagonal + Square Pass

Analysis Of Passing Combinations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

The Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Tactical Analysis: The Winger And The ‘No.10’ Use A Vertical Or Diagonal + Square Pass Combination. . . . . . . . . . . 143
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
1. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Attacking Combination Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
2. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combination in a 5 Zone Possession Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
3. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combination and Decision Making Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
4. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combinations and Finishing in a 4 Zone 11 v 11 Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

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Attacking Tactical Situation 7

Analysis Of Passing Combinations

Borussia Dortmund’s players used specific passing combinations in order to create scoring chances.

The most used passing combinations were:

a. The vertical or diagonal + square pass combination.

b. The lay off combination.
c. The third man run combination.

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Passing Combination: Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass

The Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass

Combination
This kind of passing combination was used by two players who were positioned between the lines level with
each other (e.g. winger and No.10). The main aim was to direct the ball towards a player between the lines with a
good body position (facing the opposition goal) in order to make the final pass quickly.

Basic elements:
a. Good synchronisation in the players’ movements.
b. Accurate passing with good technique.

Situation 1
The players move towards the
available passing lanes and they are
level with each other.

The passing lane towards No.10

Mkhitaryan is narrower than the one
towards Blaszczykowski (16).

The pass is directed towards

Blaszczykowski who passes first time
to Mkhitaryan who receives on the
half turn to face the opposition’s
goal. Blaszczykowski could have
turned with the ball, but this could
lead to him being closed down as
the attention is on where the ball is
directed after the first pass. The quick
passing between the players forces
the defending players to change
direction twice as they first focus on
No.16 and then on No.10.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 7

Situation 2

This time the right winger

Blaszczykowski is too far away to
provide a passing option.

The centre forward Lewandowski

drops back towards the available
passing lane. Blaszczykowski moves
into a centre forward’s position to
retain balance.

Lewandowski receives and passes first

time to Mkhitaryan who receives with
a good body position and dribbles
the ball quickly forwards.

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Passing Combination: Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass

Tactical Analysis: The Winger And The ‘No.10’

Use A Vertical Or Diagonal + Square Pass
Combination
Situation 1
Hummels moves forward with the ball. Mkhitaryan
(10) tries to create an overload by moving towards
the left, but the passing lane towards him has
been blocked. Lewandowski is on the weak side, so
Blaszczykowski (16) shifts across to provide a passing
option for Hummels.

Hummels passes to Blaszczykowski who passes first

time to Mkhitaryan. He receives facing the opposition
goal and is ready to make the final pass.

Situation 2
Mkhitaryan makes a movement to overload the
left side again. As the passing lane towards him is
narrow due to red No.8’s position, Lewandowski
drops back and Blaszczykowski (16) moves into the
centre forward’s position. Lewandowski receives
and passes first time to Mkhitaryan who is facing
the opposition goal. He moves forward with the ball
and has 2 passing options. The full back on the weak
side Piszczek (26) is in a deep position because both
defensive midfielders are beyond the forwards.

Situation 3
The ball is directed to Bender (6). As the pass towards
Mkhitaryan (10) is a risky choice due to the narrow
passing lane, Aubameyang (17) drops back and inside
to provide a passing option. Bender passes to him.

The red left back (3) follows Aubameyang’s run as

there is no player near to take advantage of the
created space. Aubameyang passes first time to
Mkhitaryan who is facing the opposition goal and
after moving forward, he has 2 passing options.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 7

Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices)

1. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Attacking
Combination Play

Objective
To develop a passing combination; vertical or diagonal pass followed by a square pass in limited space.

Description
In a 30 x 30 yard area, the practice starts with Players A and E who dribble through the cone gates at the same time.
This acts as a trigger for the players who are positioned behind the mannequins (B and C / F and G) to move towards
the potential passing lanes. Players A and E pass through the wider passing lane and then a square pass is played.

The combination is carried out within the blue zone (10 x 3 yards) and then a forward pass towards the path of
D and H within the dark blue zone is made. The new players in possession (D and H) pass back to the start on the
other side. All the players move one position forward.

Coaching Points
1. Players need high accuracy and speed when passing within limited space.
2. The weight of the passes needs to be well synchronised with well timed runs.

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Passing Combination: Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass

PROGRESSION
2. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combination in a
5 Zone Possession Game

Description
In a 20 x 40 yard area we create 5 zones as shown and the practice starts with the 3 yellow players in possession
inside zone 1 (20 x 17 yards) who play against 2 red players. The yellow players must complete at least 3 passes
before they are allowed to try and pass towards their teammates inside zone 3 (20 x 3 yards).

The 3 red players who are positioned inside zone 2 (20 x 2 yards) try to intercept the through balls. The 2 yellow
players within zone 3 carry out a vertical/diagonal + square pass combination and then aim to pass towards their
teammates in zone 5.

As soon as this final pass is made, the 2 red players in zone 4 (20 x 2 yards) enter the high zone to defend. At the
same time, their 3 team mates move from zone 2 to zone 4 and the 2 red players inside zone 1 move into zone 2.
The practice then continues in the same way, but in the opposite direction.

The yellow players try to obtain as many switches of play as possible within 2-4 minutes. The teams then switch
roles. One red player stays outside and runs for as long as the practice takes to conclude.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 7

If the reds win the ball, they try to maintain possession for as long as possible. If the ball goes out of play, the
coach passes a new ball into zone 1 or 5 immediately and the outside red player swaps with a teammate.

Variation
If it is difficult for the team in possession to pass the ball towards the players inside zone 3, one of the 3 red
players can also move to the outside.

Coaching Points
1. The players need to utilise intelligent off the ball movement to be able to receive.
2. Accuracy and speed in the passes is key in the limited space.

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Passing Combination: Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass

3. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combination and

Decision Making Practice

Description
This practice is played within 2/3 of a full sized pitch. The goalkeeper starts and the two teams play 4 (+3) v 2 (+1)
within the 30 x 20 yard zone. Only one red centre midfielder (6 or 8) can enter.

The yellow players with the help of the full backs (29 and 26) and No.1 find a way to pass the ball forward to the 3
midfielders inside the blue zone (25 x 3 yards). The centre forward (9) is positioned outside. As soon as the pass is
made and the midfielders carry out the vertical/diagonal + square passing combination as shown, the new man
in possession searches for the final pass. The other players move forward with the aim of receiving and scoring
past the goalkeeper.

If the reds win possession inside the first zone, they try to score in the 2 mini goals.

Restrictions
1. Only one red defensive midfielder (6 or 8) is allowed to enter the first zone to defend.
2. The outside yellow players (1, 29 and 26) are limited to one touch for as long their teammates retain
possession within the zone.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 7

PROGRESSION
4. Vertical or Diagonal + Square Pass Combinations and
Finishing in a 4 Zone 11 v 11 Game

Description
In this progression of the previous practice, the first zone is extended to the full width of the pitch, we add an
extra full sized goal and 6 red players so we are playing 11 v 11. The centre forward (9) is now within a white zone
with the 4 opposition defenders as shown in the diagram.

The goalkeeper starts the practice and the two teams play 6 v 4 (+1) within the first zone (45 x 25 yards). The
yellow players try to pass to the 3 midfielders inside the blue zone (25 x 3 yards). As soon as the pass is received
and the midfielders carry out the vertical/diagonal + square passing combination as shown, the new man in
possession searches for the final pass. The other players move forward with the aim of receiving and scoring past
the goalkeeper. If the reds win possession, there are no restrictions in regards to the zones and they try to score
within 8-10 seconds.

Restrictions
1. Only one red defensive midfielder (6 or 8) is allowed to enter the first zone to defend.
2. The red midfielders and forwards are allowed to track back to defend. The red defenders can leave the white
zone to put pressure on the man in possession, but they cannot defend beyond the red line.

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The Lay-Off Passing Combination

ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATION 8

The Lay-Off Passing Combination

The Lay-Off Combination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

Tactical Analysis: The Lay-Off Combination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
1. Attacking Combination Play with a Lay-Off Pass. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
2. Passing Through the Centre with a Lay-Off Passing Combination in a 6 (+4) v 6 End to End Possession Game.153
3. Building Up Play Under Pressure and Passing Through the Centre with a Lay-Off Passing Combination . . . . . . 154
4. Passing Through the Centre with a Lay-Off Passing Combination in an 11 v 11 Dynamic Zonal SSG . . . . . . . . . . 155

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Attacking Tactical Situation 8

The Lay-Off Combination

The lay-off passing combination was used by two players between the lines, one in an advanced position and
one in a deeper position (e.g. centre forward and the No.10).

The main aim was to direct the ball towards a player between the lines with a good body position (facing the
opposition goal) in order for him to make the final pass quickly.

In order for this combination to be successful, the centre forward must receive in an advanced position and there
should be:

a. Good synchronisation in the players’ movements.

b. Quality passing technique with good accuracy.

Bender (6) has the ball and

the other players (Reus and
Mkhitaryan) move towards the
passing lanes.

Lewandowski is in an advanced
position.

Bender plays a forward pass and

while the ball is travelling to
Lewandowski, Mkhitaryan (10)
makes a movement towards the
potential receiver.

Lewandowski lays the ball back

to Mkhitaryan who has a good
body position to quickly play a
forward pass towards either Reus
(option 1) or towards Lewandowski
(option 2).

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The Lay-Off Passing Combination

Tactical Analysis: The Lay-Off Combination

Situation 1
In this situation, Reus (11) makes an up and down
movement which unbalances the opposition right
back (2) and then moves to receive.

Lewandowski also makes a movement to get free

of marking and provides a passing option. The pass
is directed to him and Reus receives the lay-off
pass. Reus has several options to pass or he can
shoot at goal (5 v 4 situation).

Situation 2
Bender receives the pass from Sokratis. Mkhitaryan
is behind red No.8 and is unable to receive a pass.
Lewandowski (9) moves towards the available
passing lane and receives the ball high up the
pitch. Mkhitaryan has already moved towards
him and Lewandowski lays the ball off to him.
Mkhitaryan moves forward with the ball before
he is able to pass towards either No.9 (option 1),
No.17 (option 2) or towards the right back (option
3) breaking forward if the potential forward passes
are blocked.

Situation 3
The same kind of combination is used between
the centre forward and the left winger Reus in this
example.

Reus (11) receives the lay-off from Lewandowski

(9) and moves towards the inside. Mkhitaryan (10)
and Aubameyang (17) make diagonal runs and the
right back Piszczek (26) moves forward.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 8

Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices)

1. Attacking Combination Play with a Lay-Off Pass

Objective
To develop an attacking combination with a lay off in a limited space.

Description
In a 30 x 30 yard area, Players A and D start the practice at the same time. They both dribble the ball through the
cone gate and at the same time, the players positioned on the white cones (B and E) move towards the potential
passing lanes in the blue zones. The players in more advanced positions make an up movement to touch the
mannequin and then drop back at the right moment to receive the pass.

As soon as the players in possession move through the cone gate (trigger), they make the forward pass. The pass
is directed towards these players who lay the ball off into the blue zone and then open up. B and E receive and
pass towards one of the two forwards who move to receive behind the mannequins.

The forward who receives the final pass shoots first time into the mini goal and joins the queue on the other
side, while the other forward returns to his position. All the other players move one position forward and the
sequence starts again.

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The Lay-Off Passing Combination

PROGRESSION
2. Passing Through the Centre with a Lay-Off Passing
Combination in a 6 (+4) v 6 End to End Possession Game

Description
In a 30 x 30 yard area, the two teams play 3 (+1 neutral) v 3 inside the both halves. An additional 2 neutral players
are inside the 2 semi-circles in the centre.

The aim of the team in possession is to pass the ball to the advanced neutral player inside the semi-circle who
plays a lay-off pass to the deeper neutral player. After this, the ball is passed to a player on the same team inside
the other half as shown.

If the defending team (reds in diagram) win the ball, they continue the practice with the same aim. This is a game
and the team that wins achieves the most switches of play within 4-5 minutes.

Coaching Points
1. Players need to check away from their marker before moving to receive to make sure that they retain
possession for their team.
2. Accuracy and speed in passing and when dribbling the ball is required in the limited space.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 8

PROGRESSION
3. Building Up Play Under Pressure and Passing Through
the Centre with a Lay-Off Passing Combination

Description
The goalkeeper or coach starts the practice which is played in 2/3 of a full sized pitch and the two teams play 6 v
4 (+1) in the first zone (45 x 25 yards). Only one red defensive midfielder can enter the zone (6 or 8).

The yellow players try to pass the ball forward towards the centre forward (9) while the 3 midfielders are inside
the blue zone (35 x 3 yards) which is divided equally into 3 sections.

The centre forward (9) makes a lay-off pass towards one of the 3 midfielders (depending which of the 3 sections
the forward pass was played through). The other 3 players move forward to receive in behind and score. In the
diagram No.9 is option 1, No.10 is option 2 and No.17 is option 3.

If the reds win the ball inside the first zone, they try to score in the 2 mini goals.

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The Lay-Off Passing Combination

PROGRESSION
4. Passing Through the Centre with a Lay-Off Passing
Combination in an 11 v 11 Dynamic Zonal SSG

Description
In this progression, we add a second full sized goal and add 4 red defenders in place of the mannequins.

The practice works in exactly the same way as the previous practice for the yellows. The red midfielders or
forwards can track back to defend in the blue zone. The red defenders inside the first zone can move forward to
put pressure on the man in possession within the blue zone, but they are not allowed to defend beyond the red
line.

If the reds win the ball, there are no restrictions in regards to the zones and they must finish their counter attack
within 8-10 seconds.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 9

ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATION 9

Passing Combination with a Third

Man Run

Passing Combination With A Third Man Run. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Tactical Analysis: Passing Combination With A Third Man Run. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
1. Passing Combination with a Third Man Run. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
2. Passing Combination with a Third Man Run in a 6 (+5) v 6 End to End Possession Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
3. Building Up Play Under Pressure, Passing Combination with a Third Man Run and Finishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
4. Passing Combination with a Third Man Run and Finishing in an 11 v 11 Dynamic Zonal Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

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Passing Combination with a Third Man Run

Passing Combination With A Third Man Run

This kind of passing combination was used by two players who were positioned between the lines and moved in
synchronisation (e.g. centre forward and the No.10). The main aim was to direct the ball behind the opposition’s
defence immediately.

Basic elements:
In order for this combination to be successful, the players involved (in most of the situations) used synchronised
movements (opposite runs) and would also start at the same level in the pitch.

E.g. When the centre forward drops back, the third man (midfielder) should move forward at the same time.
When the ball reaches the centre forward’s feet, the players should be at approximately the same level in the
pitch. The third man should receive on the move and there needs to be good passing technique and accuracy.

Bender (6) is the man in possession.

Lewandowski takes up a position
towards a passing lane.

Mkhitaryan is not able to take up

a position towards an available
passing lane, so he makes a
movement towards the centre
forward.

Bender makes the pass towards

Lewandowski while Mkhitaryan is
already moving forward.

The good synchronisation shown

is essential for this combination
in order for the third man (10) to
receive the ball on the move and in
behind the defence.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 9

Tactical Analysis: Passing Combination With

A Third Man Run
Situation 1

The aim is to move the ball to a player

in behind the defence. In order to be
successful, the third man (10) should not
be in a deep position. As soon as Bender
receives the ball and turns, No.9 makes a
movement to receive (but not too deep).
As soon as the pass towards Lewandowski
is played, Mkhitaryan (10) is already on the
move. Lewandowski passes first time to
Mkhitaryan. It is the No.10 that determines
where the pass should be played by
choosing to move towards the appropriate
path.

Situation 2

This is a variation of the previous situation

as Mkhitaryan chooses a different path to
make his forward run.

With this combination, Mkhitaryan is able

to receive in behind the defence again.

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Passing Combination with a Third Man Run

Situation 3
This is another variation of the previous
situation, but the combination is between
the centre forward (9) and the left winger
(11) this time.

ASSESSMENT:
The positioning of the players on the right side were similar to the ones displayed here
in the diagrams which display the left side.

In order for the third man run combination to be effective, the third man should be high
up the pitch and the opposition defence must be stretched in order for there to be gaps
in between the defenders.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 9

Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices)

1. Passing Combination with a Third Man Run

Objective
To develop an attacking combination through tight spaces with a third man run.

Description
In a 30 x 30 yard area, Players A and D start the practice at the same time. They both dribble the ball through the
cone gates. As soon as they move through the red cone gate (trigger), the players in the advanced positions (B
and E) on the yellow cones drop back in front of the mannequins and the players in the deeper positions (C and
F) move forward at the same time.

The pass is made when they dribble through the blue cone gate. Players B and E receive the pass and play a first
time pass between the mannequins towards the path of C and F. These players receive the ball and make an
accurate pass/shot into the mini goals. All players move one position forward.

Coaching Points
1. Monitor the correct weight and accuracy of the passes which should be timed for the runs.
2. This requires synchronisation in the players’ movements and good reactions to the ‘triggers’.

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Passing Combination with a Third Man Run

PROGRESSION
2. Passing Combination with a Third Man Run in a
6 (+5) v 6 End to End Possession Game

Description
In a 30 x 65 yard area, there is a blue zone (30 x 20 yards) which is divided into 2 equal high and low sections. A
neutral player (9) is positioned in the high one and there are 2 neutral players (midfielders) in the low one who
play as outside players. There is also one neutral player inside each end zone.

The practice starts with the yellows in the first zone who play 3 (+1 neutral and 2 outside players) v 3 red players.
The yellows complete 3 passes before passing to the neutral No.9. As soon as a player can pass forward, No.9
drops back into the low blue zone and the 2 neutrals move forward.

No.9 plays a first time pass into the high blue zone for either No.10 or 11 and they pass to a teammate in the far
zone. The 2 neutral attacking midfielders (10 and 11) stay in the high blue zone to provide support to the team in
possession. If the reds win possession, they have the same aim.

Restrictions
1. During the passing combination the ball must be received within the high blue zone.
2. Outside players have 1 touch when supporting, but can play freely after the passing combination.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 9

PROGRESSION
3. Building Up Play Under Pressure, Passing Combination
with a Third Man Run and Finishing

Description
In this progression, we use 2/3 of a full sized pitch and the two teams play 4 (+3) v 2 (+1) within the first zone
(30 x 25 yards). The yellows aim to pass the ball forward towards the centre forward (9). At the same time, the
3 attacking midfielders (10, 11 and 17) inside the second zone (30 x 15 yards) time their runs with the centre
forward’s dropping back movement and receive the pass beyond the mannequins.

After the passing combination, the new player in possession tries to score past the goalkeeper as soon as
possible. If the reds win the ball, they try to score in the two mini goals.

Restrictions
1. Only one of the two red defensive midfielders can enter the first zone and support his teammates.
2. The outside players (1, 29 and 26) are limited to one touch.
3. The midfielders must time their runs for the same time as the ball reaches the centre forward.

Coaching Points
1. The players need accurate passing and good synchronisation in their movements.
2. The focus for the forwards/midfielders should be for quick and accurate finishing.

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Passing Combination with a Third Man Run

PROGRESSION
4. Passing Combination with a Third Man Run and
Finishing in an 11 v 11 Dynamic Zonal Game

Description
In this progression, we add a second full sized goal, create an extra white zone and add 6 red players in place of
the mannequins. The two teams play 6 v 4 (+1) within the 45 x 25 yard low zone.

The yellow players try to pass to the centre forward (9) who drops back into the white zone (35 x 3 yards) to
receive. The yellow attacking midfielders (10, 11 and 17) positioned inside the light blue zone (35 x 15 yards) time
their runs in order to receive a pass beyond the red line as soon as the ball reaches the centre forward’s feet. If the
reds win possession, there are no restrictions in regards to the zone and must finish their counter attack within
8-10 seconds.

Restrictions
1. Only 1 red defensive midfielder can enter the first zone to provide support for their teammates.
2. As soon as the forward pass is made, the red midfielders and forwards are allowed to track back and defend.
The red defenders can push up to defend, but are not allowed to defend beyond the red line.
3. The red defenders are not allowed to contest No.9 within the white zone.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 10

ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATION 10

Direct Play

Analysis Of Direct Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

Long Pass To The Centre Forward Who Directs It Towards An Attacking Midfielder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
The Team’s Reaction To The Long Pass Towards The Centre Forward (Second Ball). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Tactical Analysis: The Team’s Reaction To The Long Pass Towards The Centre Forward (Second Ball). . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
1. The Centre Forward Directing a Long Pass to the Forward Running Attacking Midfielder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
2. The Centre Forward Directing a Long Pass to the Forward Running Attacking Midfielder (2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
3. Long Passes and Timing Forward Runs in a 5 Zone 7 (+2) v 7 Small Sided Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
4. Long Passes and Timing Forward Runs in a 4 Zone 11 v 11 Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175

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Direct Play

Analysis Of Direct Play

Direct play is the attempt of the man in possession (usually a defender) to move the ball forward and close to the
opposition penalty area as soon as possible by using a long pass with the aim of creating a scoring chance.

Borussia Dortmund used this kind of direct play not only as an attacking option, but also when the defenders
were under pressure from the opposition forwards. So instead of attempting a risky short pass towards one of
the midfielders, Dortmund’s defenders would sometimes try a long pass towards the centre forward.

The long balls can be classified into 2 categories:

1. Long passes directed to the centre forward.

2. Long pass directed in behind the opposition’s defence into the forward’s path.

When the long passes were made near the sidelines they were made in the form of a cross, but from an angle
that is not very effective.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 10

Long Pass To The Centre Forward Who Directs

It Towards An Attacking Midfielder
When building up from the back, Borussia Dortmund’s defenders did not try risky passes when they had to deal
with the opposition’s pressure. Instead they used to play long passes targeting Lewandowski or they passed
the ball back to the goalkeeper (Weidenfeller). How the midfielders dealt with long passes depended on their
positioning in relation to Lewandowski’s position.

Situation 1
As the man in possession
(Subotic) moves forward, the
centre forward (9) and the
attacking midfielder (10) are close
to each other.

When the ball is directed

towards the centre forward
(Lewandowski), the No.10
Mkhitaryan moves into the space
behind him to receive the header
or pass.

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Direct Play

Situation 2
In this situation there is a long distance
between the two players.

As soon as the long pass is played, the

No.10 moves into a supporting position to
receive the back header or the lay off pass
from Lewandowski.

Because the distance between the two

players is larger, the ball is directed into a
deeper position in this example.

The centre forward drops back to win the

ball and the No.10 moves into a centre
forward’s position to receive the header
or pass.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 10

Situation 3

In this situation there is a long distance between the As soon as the ball is directed towards the centre
two players with the winger (17) in a wide position, forward, the right winger (Aubameyang) moves
however they are at about the same level/depth in forward into the space behind him to receive the
the pitch. header or pass.

Situation 4

In this situation there is a long distance between the In this situation, the winger is deeper than in the
two players with the winger (17) in a deeper position. previous situation, so when the long pass is made, he
moves into a supporting position to receive the back
header or lay-off.

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Direct Play

The Team’s Reaction To The Long Pass

Towards The Centre Forward (Second Ball)
Borussia Dortmund’s players reacted rapidly after the long pass towards the centre forward. They moved quickly
and in a synchronised way towards the target area. This was done because a long pass is not a 100% accurate
pass. This means that the team that has more players near the area of the pitch where the ball is directed has a
better chance of winning the second ball.

As soon as the long pass is played, the midfielders moved to positions near the target player to occupy the areas
the ball may be directed to after the forward’s header or the defender’s clearance.

This diagram shows the positioning of the players

when building up play from the back.

As soon as the long pass is made, Dortmund’s players

move towards the target area so they are in position
for the second ball after the header of the centre
forward or the defender’s clearance.

The full backs converge near to the opposition’s

wingers so they are ready to fight for the ball in case
there is a long clearance.

The centre backs also move forward to retain the

team’s cohesion.

ASSESSMENT:
The long passes and the aggressive way Borussia Dortmund’s players moved to win the
second ball altered the tempo of the game.

The players moved in the same aggressive way after winning the second ball to attack
the opposition.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 10

Tactical Analysis: The Team’s Reaction To

The Long Pass Towards The Centre Forward
(Second Ball)
Situation 1

Subotic (4) is forced to play a long pass towards As the ball travels to the centre forward, the players
Lewandowski due to the red centre forward’s (9) move near the ball area. This reaction creates
pressure on him. superiority in numbers for Dortmund and increases
the chances of winning the second ball.

Situation 2 Situation 3

Subotic plays the long ball. The players move The long pass is directed towards Lewandowski.
according to where the ball is directed. Both No.10 No.10 is deeper this time and No.17 is higher.
and No.11 move towards the strong side (black Mkhitaryan (10) moves towards the potential back
arrows) and make runs in behind the defence after pass while Aubameyang (17) moves to receive the
the back pass is made towards the free space (red forward pass or the header in behind the defence. The
arrows). The defenders create a 3 man defence defenders create a 3 man defence against the 2 red
against the 2 red forwards. forwards again.

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Direct Play

Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices)

1. The Centre Forward Directing a Long Pass to the
Forward Running Attacking Midfielder

Objective
To develop accurate long passing and heading with good synchronisation between the centre forward and a
midfielder.

Description
Within a 30 x 40 yard area, we mark out two blue zones (25 x 10 yards) and four red zones (10 x 10 yards). The
practice starts with Players A and F at the same time.

Right: Player A passes to B as soon as he has made a movement to touch the red cone and then back. Player B
passes to C who moves forward and receives on the run. Player C dribbles forward and plays a long ball towards
one of the red zones where Player E has moved back into and heads the ball forward into Player D’s path. Player
D has made a run forward, receives on the move within the blue zone and then passes/shoots into the mini goal.
All players move one position forward.

Left: The practice is executed in exactly the same way on the left with Players F, G, H, I and J.

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VARIATION
2. The Centre Forward Directing a Long Pass to the
Forward Running Attacking Midfielder (2)

Description
In this variation, the distance between the centre forward and the midfielder is bigger.

Right: The difference in this variation is that Player E starts in a different position (as shown) and Player C now
plays a long ball into the blue zone. E moves back and plays the ball back into a red zone from the long pass.
Player D moves forward to receive within the red zone, dribbles forward and then passes/shoots into the mini
goal. All players move one position forward.

Left: In this part player J takes up a position on one of the yellow cones. The man in possession (H) should direct
the aerial pass towards the respective red area and J drops back to head the ball into the blue zone and into the
path of I who moves forward to receive and score in the mini goal.

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Direct Play

PROGRESSION
3. Long Passes and Timing Forward Runs in a 5 Zone
7 (+2) v 7 Small Sided Game

Description

In a 30 x 70 yard area, the pitch is divided into 7 sections. There are two blue zones (30 x 20 yards) divided into
high and low sections. The central zone and the two end zones are all 30 x 10 yards.

The goalkeeper starts and the yellows have possession in the low blue zone where there is a 3 (+1 blue neutral
+2 outside players) v 3. Their aim is to work the ball using the outside/neutral players to create space/time for a
long ball towards the centre forward (9) who is positioned inside the high blue zone.

As soon as the long ball is played, the second neutral midfielder (inside the low part of the high blue zone) moves
to receive the potential header or pass within the high part and score.

The two midfielders (5 and 18) who were outside players, enter the blue high blue zone to provide support and
win the potential clearance from the defenders. Furthermore, two of the low blue zone players (26 and 29) move
into supporting positions inside the central zone.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 10

If the defender makes a clearance and the yellow players win the second ball, they try to score against the 3 reds
within 8 seconds.

If the red defenders win possession, they start in the low blue zone with the same 3 (+1 blue neutral +2 outside
players) v 3 situation and the same aim to play a long ball towards their centre forward and provide support
immediately.

If the ball goes out of play, the coach behind the goal throws a new ball into the air and the players fight for it.

Restrictions
1. The neutral midfielder should receive the centre forward’s header within the high part of the blue zone and
shoot as quickly as possible.
2. Only one defender is allowed inside the high part of the blue zone when the long ball is made.
3. After the header or the clearance there are no restrictions.
4. The goalkeepers are not allowed to enter the blue zones.

Coaching Points
1. The players need to create enough space and time in the low blue zone so that the long ball is very accurate
towards the centre forward.
2. The header also needs to be very accurate as the neutral player must receive within a limited area.
3. The forward run of the neutral player needs to be timed very well and anticipate the header so that they can
receive and shoot before the defender is able to react.
4. The players making the supporting runs (5 and 18) need to anticipate the defensive clearances and attack
quickly if they receive. As there are no longer any restrictions, the players need to capitalise on the 4 v 3
situation before more red players are able to track back and defend.

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Direct Play

PROGRESSION
4. Long Passes and Timing Forward Runs in a 4 Zone
11 v 11 Game

Description
This practice is played in 2/3 of a full sized pitch and we mark out 4 zones as shown.

The yellow team aim to play a long pass towards the centre forward from within the low blue zone and then take
advantage of the centre forward’s header into the white zone. If there is a clearance, the players move towards
the ball area to win the second ball.

If the yellow players win the second ball after a defensive clearance, they must then finish their attack within 8
seconds. If the reds win possession, they try to score within 10 seconds.

Restrictions
1. The red defenders are not allowed to enter the white zone when the long ball is made. However, after the
header or the clearance there are no longer any restrictions.
2. The opposition goalkeeper is not allowed to enter the white zone.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 11

ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATION 11

Long Passes in Behind the

Defence

Long Passes In Behind The Defence (From The Centre). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

Tactical Analysis: Long Pass In Behind The Defence (From The Centre). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
1. Direct Play: Long Diagonal Pass in Behind the Defence on the Blind Side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
2. Building Up Under Pressure + Long Diagonal Pass in Behind the Defence on the Blind Side of the Defender. 180
3. Building Up Under Pressure + Long Diagonal Pass in Behind the Defence
on the Blind Side of the Defender (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
4. Long Diagonal Pass in Behind the Defence on the Blind Side of the Defender in a 9 v 7 Dynamic Game. . . . . . 182
Long Passes In Behind The Defence (From The Sidelines). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Tactical Analysis: Long Passes In Behind The Defence (From The Sidelines) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184

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Long Passes in Behind the Defence

Long Passes In Behind The Defence

(From The Centre)
There were several situations when the technically skilled players such as Hummels, Sahin and Gundogan played
long passes in behind the defensive line towards the path of one of the forwards.

Basic elements:
a. Passing quality/accuracy from the man in possession (e.g. Hummels, Sahin, Gundogan).
b. Well timed run from the target player towards the space in behind the defensive line.
c. Available space in behind the defenders’ backs.

The man in possession is

Hummels, a player with good
passing technique.

As Hummels has available time

and space, he moves forward with
the ball. Lewandowski notices
this and makes a movement to
take up a position on the centre
back’s blind side. This positioning
makes it difficult for the defender
to keep an eye both on the ball
and on his direct opponent at the
same time.

The defender is unable to see that

the forward is ready to make a
forward run on his blind side and
he is not ready to drop back. So as
soon as Hummels plays the long
pass, the forward is already on the
move and retains an advantage
against the defender.

The run must be well timed and

the long pass must be accurate in
order for the combination to be
successful.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 11

Tactical Analysis: Long Pass In Behind The

Defence (From The Centre)

Hummels receives from Sokratis (25) and moves forward with the ball.

Lewandowski makes a movement towards the blind side of the red centre back (5). When Hummels notices his
position and good movement, he plays a long pass and Lewandowski receives in behind the defender’s back.

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Long Passes in Behind the Defence

Session For This Tactical Situation (4 Practices)

1. Direct Play: Long Diagonal Pass in Behind the Defence
on the Blind Side

Objective
To develop good synchronisation between the centre forward and the player who plays the long pass.

Description
In a 30 x 40 yard area, the practice starts on the left and right at the same time. Player A passes to B as soon as he has
made a movement to touch the red cone and then back. Player B passes to C who moves forward, receives on the run,
dribbles forward and then plays a diagonal long pass into the opposite blue zone (10 x 10 yards). As soon as C receives,
Player D times his run on the blind side of the mannequin and receives the long ball on the move within the blue zone.
Player D is limited to 2 touches (receive and shoot as quickly as possible. The players move one position forward.

Coaching Points
1. The accuracy of the long pass is particularly important in this practice with only a 10 x 10 yard zone to aim for.
You can increase the size of the zone depending on the age/level of the players.
2. There needs to be good synchronisation between the timing of the long pass and D’s movement.
3. Player D needs to execute a quality first touch and quick/accurate finishing.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 11

PROGRESSION
2. Building Up Under Pressure + Long Diagonal Pass in
Behind the Defence on the Blind Side of the Defender

Description
The goalkeeper or coach starts and the two teams play 4 (+3) v 2 within the white zone (25 x 15 yards) which is
divided into four equal sections. The aim is to play a long pass within the high part of the white zone to the weak
side’s forward (diagonal ball into the blue zone). The forward makes the run as soon he man in possession has
time and space, receives the pass within the blue zone (10 x 10 yards) and tries to score. The red defenders switch
positions with another two every 2 minutes.

Restrictions
1. The long ball must be made within the high part of the white zone towards the weak side.
2. There should be 1 red player inside the low half and another inside the high half of the white zone.
3. The 3 outside players (1, 29 and 26) are limited to 2 touches.

Variation
Remove one forward. The yellow players in the white zone read the tactical situation and play a diagonal pass to
where that forward is positioned on the weak side.

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Long Passes in Behind the Defence

PROGRESSION
3. Building Up Under Pressure + Long Diagonal Pass in
Behind the Defence on the Blind Side of the Defender (2)

Description
In this progression, the goalkeeper starts and the two teams play 4 (+3) v 2 (+1) within a 35 x 20 yard dark blue
zone which is again divided into 4 equal sections.

The aim is to play a long ball within the high part of the zone to the weak side’s forward (diagonal pass into the
light blue zone). The red players try to win possession and score in the 2 mini goals.

The forwards and red defenders are positioned in the white zones. The forward on the weak side must time his
run and receive the long pass within the light blue zone (10 x 10 yards) in order to then score.

Restrictions
1. The long diagonal pass must be made within the high part of the zone towards the weak side.
2. Only one of the red midfielders (6 or 8) can enter the low zone.
3. The 3 outside players (1, 29 and 26) are limited to 2 touches or must pass within 3 seconds.
4. The red defenders are not allowed to leave the white zones they are in.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 11

PROGRESSION
4. Long Diagonal Pass in Behind the Defence on the Blind
Side of the Defender in a 9 v 7 Dynamic Game

Description
In this progression to the previous practice, we simply add a full sized goal in place of the 2 mini goals, so that if
the red players win possession in the dark blue zone, they now try to score past the goalkeeper.

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Long Passes in Behind the Defence

Long Passes In Behind The Defence

(From The Sidelines)

Situation 1

If build up took place near the sidelines and the full Schmelzer (29) receives the ball high enough and
back could receive high enough up the pitch, the delivers a cross into the available space behind the
direct play had the form of a cross in behind the defenders. The forwards move to receive the ball on
defensive line. the move.

Situation 2

Schmelzer is in a deeper position this time. As Schmelzer has limited space and time before the
opposing winger (red No.7) manages to close him
down, reaching an effective angle to cross the ball is
not possible. So he makes a pass towards No.11 who
makes a well timed run.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 11

Tactical Analysis: Long Passes In Behind The

Defence (From The Sidelines)
Situation 1

Hummels receives and moves forward while the red In this simple situation, the left back Schmelzer
No.7 and No.6 narrow the potential vertical passing receives in a position close to the opposition’s penalty
lane. As the red No.7 has shifted towards the centre to area. As he has available space and time on the ball,
block the vertical pass, the pass towards the sideline No.2 and No.7 are unable to close him down before he
is left free. Schmelzer (29) is in an advanced position crosses the ball in behind the defenders (aiming for
with available space in front of him. No.9 or No.16 who make runs into the box).

Situation 2

Schmelzer is deeper this time in order to receive. Schmelzer receives the ball in a deeper position this
Piszczek (26) stays in a deep position to provide time and is not at a good angle to cross the ball before
balance as both red defensive midfielders are beyond No.7 closes him down. Reus (11) makes a well timed
the opposition forwards. run in behind the right back (2), receives the ball and
crosses for No.10, No.9 and No.16 who all make runs
into the box.

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Switching Play

ATTACKING TACTICAL SITUATION 12

Switching Play

Analysis Of Switching Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186

Tactical Analysis: Switching Play - The Full Back Providing Width & The Winger Inside. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
Session For This Tactical Situation (7 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
1. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back and the Winger in a Central Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
2. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back and the Winger in a Central Position (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
3. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back in a 7 v 2 (+2 Mannequins) Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
4. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back in a 7 v 2 (+2 Mannequins) Practice (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
5. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back in a 7 v 4 Practice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
6. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back in a 4 Zone 11 v 10 Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
7. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back in a 6 Zone 11 v 11 Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With The Full Back Wide And The Winger In A Deep Position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With The Full Back Wide And The Winger In An Advanced Position. . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With The Winger Providing The Width. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With Both The Full Bac. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200

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Attacking Tactical Situation 12

Analysis Of Switching Play

Switching play is moving the ball from the strong side towards the weak side. During the switching of play,
Borussia Dortmund used the appropriate attacking combinations to break through the opposition defence. The
combinations used depended mainly on the positioning of the winger and the full back on the weak side. Their
main aim was to outnumber their opponents on the flank.

Tactical Analysis: Switching Play - The Full

Back Providing Width & The Winger Inside
Situation 1
In this situation, the right back (Piszczek) is the player
who creates width, while the winger (16) is positioned
in a central position between the lines. Piszczek (26) is
in an advanced position due to the tactical situation
at the back (deep position of the defensive midfielder
No.6 which creates a 3 v 2 for Borussia at the back).

As soon as Bender (6) is able to switch play, Piszczek

moves further forward and receives the ball. The reds
are compact (short distance between the defensive
and midfield lines).

Piszczek dribbles forward and the red defensive

midfielder (6) has managed to drop back quickly. Red
No.3 moves to close Piszczek down and as there is not
enough available space in the centre, Blaszczykowski
(16) makes a diagonal run to help outnumber the
opposition on the flank. As 3 players (9, 10 and 11)
are ready to enter the box, the red defender (5) has a
dilemma whether or not to follow No.16 near the flank
and leave a 2 v 3 inside the box. No.26 passes to No.16
who delivers a cross for his teammates in the box.

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Switching Play

Situation 2

No.3 is ready to put Piszczek under pressure. No.5

In a similar situation to the previous one, the distance moves to cover No.3’s position so he is unable to
between the defensive and midfield lines of the prevent No.16 from receiving. The red No.6 has
opposition is greater. not managed to reach an effective position so as
Blaszczykowski (16) moves into a supporting position,
The long ball (switch of play) is directed towards he is very likely to receive unmarked. Piszczek passes
Piszczek again. This time the red defensive midfieler to him while 4 players are outside the box against
(6) has not managed to get back in time. 3 defenders. No.9 makes a diagonal movement to
receive the final pass while 11 and 10 provide passing
options.

Situation 3 Situation 4

This is a variation of the previous situation. No.16 No.5 moves to close down No.16 and prevents the
moves into a supporting position again and plays a pass, but this action creates space behind him (option
one-two combination with the centre forward. He is 2). Red No.3 is left without cover in a 1 v 1 situation
then able to take a shot (option 1) or cross for No.11 (option 1) and No.2 is left alone inside the box against
(option 2). No.11 and No.10 (option 3). The man in possession
should read the tactical situation and choose the best
of the 3 options.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 12

Situation 5

In this situation Hummels directs the ball towards Blaszczykowski receives and has available space
the winger (16) who is positioned between the lines to move forward and towards the inside with the
on the right, while at the same time the right back ball, while the opposition defenders drop back. This
(Piszczek) makes a forward run. This action prevents action creates a 5 v 4 situation in favour of Borussia
the red left back (3) from moving forward and putting Dortmund.
pressure on Blaszczykowski as a direct pass from him
to Piszczek would enable Dortmund’s right back to No.9 and No.11 move diagonally to receive the killer
receive unmarked with plenty of space in front of him. pass, but if this kind of pass cannot be made, the right
The red team is not compact enough. back breaking forward (26) provides a passing option
on the flank.

Situation 6

This time the opposition is more compact and as soon No.26 moves forward with the ball and
as the right winger (16) receives, he is unable to move Blaszczykowski (16) helps create a numerical
towards the inside as the red midfielder (6) manages advantage on the flank, so he passes to him and he
to close him down. So No.16 passes to the right back crosses. In case outnumbering the opposition is not
(26) and makes an overlapping run. possible due to No.11’s quick reaction, the ball can be
passed back towards No.18 or No.4.

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Switching Play

Session For This Tactical Situation (7 Practices)

1. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back
and the Winger in a Central Position
Objective
To develop attacking combinations used during the switch of play to the full back on the weak side.

Description
In half a full sized pitch, this practice is executed on the right and then on the left. Player A starts and as soon as
he dribbles through the cone gate, B drops back to provide a passing option. A plays a 1-2 combination with B
and then plays a long ball towards the full back on the weak side who receives on the move. The players then
carry out 4 different combinations, as displayed in the 4 different diagrams.

You can add 4 attacking players, so as soon as the first 4 have finished the practice, the other 4 are ready to start
the practice towards the other side immediately.

Diagram 1
The winger exploits the space
behind the mannequin, receives
and crosses into the box.

Diagram 2
The winger receives the pass from
the full back and has 3 available
passing options as shown.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 12

Diagrams 3 and 4
In this situation it is supposed that the centre back has moved towards the winger and prevents him from
receiving unmarked. So the full back either directs the ball towards the created space (blue zone shown in
diagram 3) or crosses towards No.11 and No.10 (option 1, diagram 4) or finally goes for the 1 v 1 and then crosses
(option 2, diagram 4).

As there are 2 cones in the centre, the No.10 takes up a position towards the strong side’s cone when the practice
is about to start. The centre backs and the defensive midfielders take up the A and B positions and move from
one position to another.

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Switching Play

VARIATION
2. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back
and the Winger in a Central Position (2)

Objective
To develop attacking combinations used during the switch of play to the winger on the weak side.

Description
In this variation of the previous practice, the difference is that the ball is directed towards the winger instead of
the full back. The practice is again executed on the right and then on the left.

Player A starts and as soon as he dribbles through the cone gate, B makes a forward movement to touch the
mannequin and then drops back to provide a passing option. A plays a 1-2 combination with B and then plays
a long pass towards the winger (16) on the weak side who receives on the move, moves forward and has 3
available passing options as shown.

Option 1 is for the full back on the flank, option 2 is for No.9 who makes a diagonal run and option 3 is for the
No.10 who makes a run into the centre of the penalty area.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 12

PROGRESSION
3. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back
in a 7 v 2 (+2 Mannequins) Practice

Description
In this progression to the previous practice, we add two red centre backs. As soon as the switch of play is made,
the yellow players have to deal with the defender’s reaction to the tactical situation.

In the example shown in the diagram, if the red defender No.4 does not move close to close down the winger
(11), then No.11 can receive free of marking and make a final pass.

If the red No.4 moves to close down No.11 ,the yellow players have to make different movements and decisions
according to the new tactical situation.

The practice is again executed on the left and then on the right.

Coaching Points
1. The players now need to read the tactical situation and react to the decision making of the red centre backs,
so they make the correct decisions.
2. With the active defenders added, quick and accurate finishing is required.

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Switching Play

VARIATION
4. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back
in a 7 v 2 (+2 Mannequins) Practice (2)

Description
In this variation, two red full backs are added and the red centre backs are replaced with mannequins. As soon as
the switch of play is made, the yellow players have to deal with the full back’s reaction to the tactical situation.

In the example shown in the diagram, if the red full back (2) moves to close down the winger (11) then free space
is created on the left flank.

If the red No.2 stays and defends his zone of responsibility, the yellow players have to make different movements
and decisions according to the new tactical situation.

The practice is again executed on the left and then on the right.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 12

PROGRESSION
5. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back
in a 7 v 4 Practice

Objective
To develop attacking combinations used during the switch of play to the full back or the winger on the weak
side.

Description
This is a progression of the previous practices as we now have all 4 red defenders and no mannequins.

The switch of play can now be made to either the full back or the winger. As soon as the switch of play is made,
the yellow players have to deal with the defenders’ reaction to the tactical situation.

In the example shown in the diagram, the red centre back (4) moves to close down the winger (11) so No.9 moves
towards the created space and No.5 follows him. A 2 v 1 situation is created at the far post and No.29 delivers a
cross towards the space in which No.10 and No.16 move into.

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Switching Play

PROGRESSION
6. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back
in a 4 Zone 11 v 10 Game

Description
This progression is played in 2/3 of a full sized pitch. There is a low zone (30 yards) which is divided into two equal
sections (left and right). There is also a central zone (10 yards) for the yellow attacking midfielders and a high
zone (30 yards) for 4 red defenders and the yellow No.9.

We play an 11 v 10 game and the goalkeeper starts the practice with a 6 (+3) v 5 in the low zone. The aim is to
switch play towards the weak side’s full back within the central zone. The red defenders in the high zone are
not allowed to enter the central zone and the red players from the low zone can only enter it once the full back
receives. The yellow team should use the appropriate combination in order to score and the reds try to win
possession and must then score within 10 seconds.

Restrictions
1. In the low zone, the 3 attacking midfielders play as outside players and are limited to one touch.
2. If reds win possession, there are no restrictions in regards to the zones.
3. If the ball goes out of play, the game starts again with the yellow goalkeeper.

Variation
The switch of play is directed to the winger on the weak side instead of the full back.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 12

VARIATION
7. Switching Play with the Width Provided by the Full Back
in a 6 Zone 11 v 11 Game

Description
This is a variation of the previous practice and the difference is that the red team now also have 11 players and
the two red defensive midfielders (6 and 8) are positioned inside the central area we have added. Only one of
them is allowed inside this area while the other one is ready to provide support to his teammates as soon as the
switch of play is obtained.

The two teams play 6 (+3) v 5 inside the low zone again with the same aims.

The red defenders in the high zone are not allowed to enter the central zone and the red players from the low
zone can only enter it once the full back receives. The red defensive midfielder (6) who is inside the extra area can
immediately provides support to his teammates. The yellows use the appropriate combination in order to score
and the reds try to win possession and score within 10 seconds.

The restrictions are the same as the previous practice.

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Switching Play

Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With The Full

Back Wide And The Winger In A Deep Position
In this situation the switch of play is
made by the long pass from Hummels.

Piszczek (26) moves into an advanced

position as the winger (16) is deep and in
a central position.

Piszczek (26) receives and moves

forward.

The red No.6 drops into an effective

position in the centre and it is impossible
for No.16 to receive in the centre and
create a numerical situation outside the
box. So he makes an overlapping run
to outnumber the opposition on the
flank. He receives and crosses for his
teammates inside the box.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 12

Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With The Full

Back Wide And The Winger In An Advanced
Position
Hummels receives the ball from Bender (6) and is
ready to play a long pass.

Blaszczykowski (16) is in an advanced position this

time.

As soon as Hummels is ready to play the long pass,

Blaszczykowski (16) makes a movement towards
the inside to receive the potential pass or header
from Lewandowski (if the ball is directed to No.9)
in behind the defensive line. This forces the red left
back (3) to follow his movement.

Space is created on the right flank and Piszczek (26)

can receive high up the pitch and deliver a cross into
the box for his teammates.

If the left back (3) does not follow Blaszczykowski’s

(16) movement towards the inside and moves
to close down Piszczek (26) immediately,
Blaszczykowski moves to provide support for a 1-2
combination (as shown in the diagram) or he can
turn and move with the ball towards the inside
depending.

This situation all depends on the positioning of the

opposition midfielders.

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Switching Play

Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With The

Winger Providing The Width

The ball is directed towards the winger (16) near

the sideline and the right back (26) makes a
forward run.

The red left back (3) moves to close

Blaszczykowski down and Piszczek continues
his forward run in behind the red left back. This
action creates a 2 v 1 situation on the flank and
the man in possession directs the ball to him.

Piszczek (26) has the time and space to deliver a

cross for his teammates inside the box.

In a similar situation to the previous one,

Blaszczykowski (16) receives and is being double
marked.

As the forward pass is blocked, Piszczek (26)

makes a run to receive the pass in between the
two players. He then dribbles forward and is able
to make a final pass in behind the defensive line.
Lewandowski (9) can also move to provide an
option for a 1-2 combination.

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Attacking Tactical Situation 12

Tactical Analysis: Switching Play With Both

The Full Back And Winger Providing Width

In this situation both the winger

Blaszczykowski and the full back Piszczek
are positioned near the sideline.

As soon as Bender (6) directs the ball

towards the attacking midfielder
Blaszczykowski (16), Piszczek (26)makes
an overlapping run.

The two players try to create superiority

in numbers on the flank.

The two Borussia Dortmund players

manage to create a 2 v 1 situation
against the red left back (3).

Blaszczykowski passes to Piszczek up

the line who crosses into the box for his
teammates.

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Switching Play

CHAPTER 6
THE TRANSITION FROM
DEFENCE TO ATTACK
Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1: Direct Positive Transition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Positive Transition Tactical Situation 2: Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
Positive Transition Tactical Situation 3: Indirect Positive Transition with a Switch of Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Positive Transition Tactical Situation 4: Direct Positive Transition (Both the Centre Forward & the No.10
on the Strong Side) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
Positive Transition Tactical Situation 5: Indirect Positive Transition (Both the Centre Forward and the No.10
on the Strong Side) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249

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Chapter 6

The Transition From Defence To Attack

It is important to note that the transition from defence to attack is related to the aims of the team during the
defensive phase and the positioning of the players when defending. The full defensive phase and the transition
from attack to defence is fully outlined in the second part of this book set.

As Borussia Dortmund mainly used a combination of either pressing high up the pitch and waiting within the
middle third, the positive transition (transition from attack to defence) was carried out after winning the ball high
up the pitch and within the middle third.

The way Borussia Dortmund carried out this specific phase can be classified as:

Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1: Direct Positive Transition

The direct positive transition was carried out when the ball was intercepted high enough up the pitch and there
was no pressure on the ball carrier. The forwards could make forward movements towards the free spaces in
order to receive a pass on the move into their path.

Positive Transition Tactical Situation 2: Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass
This kind of indirect positive transition was carried out after regaining possession high enough up the pitch, but
because there was pressure on the ball, the forward pass towards the free space was not possible.

The most advanced forward had to move towards an available passing lane in order to provide a passing option
for the man in possession. This provided the opportunity to pass the ball forward (but not towards the free
space). After the forward pass there was usually a back pass to one of the midfielders and then as an open ball
situation was created, there was usually a forward pass into the free space.

Positive Transition Tactical Situation 3: Indirect Positive Transition with a Switch of Play
When neither the forward pass towards the free space or the a pass towards the advanced forward’s feet was
possible, the man in possession used a horizontal pass (switching play).

This switching play pass was usually directed towards the full back who broke forward immediately after Borussia
Dortmund regained possession. This kind of positive transition took more time to achieve than the other two
kinds.

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Direct Positive Transition

POSITIVE TRANSITION
TACTICAL SITUATION 1

Direct Positive Transition

Available Spaces During The Positive Transition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204

Exploiting The Available Spaces (The Centre Forward Is The First Defender). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Tactical Analysis: Direct Positive Transition (Centre Forward On Strong Side). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Exploiting The Available Spaces (The No.10 Is The First Defender). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Tactical Analysis: Direct Positive Transition (No.10 On The Strong Side). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
1. Defensive Movements and Quick Counter Attack on the Flank with the Centre Forward on the Strong Side. . 215
2. Collective Defensive Movements, Press High and Quick Counter Attack on the Flank in an 8 v 4 Practice. . . . . 217
3. Collective Defensive Movements, Press High and Quick Counter Attacks in an 8 v 8 Transition Game. . . . . . . . . 218
4. Winning the Ball High Up and Quick Counter Attacks in a 3 Zone 9 v 9 (+GK) Dynamic Transition Game. . . . . . 219
5. Winning the Ball High Up and Quick Counter Attacks in a 3 Zone 11 v 11 Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1

Available Spaces During The Positive

Transition

When the opposing team was in the attacking phase and Borussia Dortmund defended within the middle third,
free spaces were created. These spaces were the target of the forward runs from the forwards and midfield
players as soon as possession was gained.

The available spaces were exploited by certain players. The movements of the players depended on the
defensive positions when gaining possession.

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Direct Positive Transition

Exploiting The Available Spaces (The Centre

Forward Is The First Defender)
In situations when the centre forward was the player who put pressure on the centre back in possession on the
strong side, the movements of the players in order to exploit the available spaces are presented in the diagram
below.

The positive transition phase was mainly carried out through the available spaces on the strong side. The
exploitation of the available space on the strong side was the job of the centre forward or the No.10 according to
who was the first defender putting pressure on the ball. In the situation shown here, it is the centre forward.

When the ball is intercepted, the centre forward moves towards the available space near the sideline in order to
receive the first pass or force his direct opponent to stay close to him and leave the central zone unoccupied. The
No.10 exploits the available space in the central zone and the weak side’s attacking midfielder (17) attacks the
available space on the weak side.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1

Tactical Analysis: Direct Positive Transition

(Centre Forward On Strong Side)
When defending in the middle third, there were times when the centre forward had the role of the first defender.
When possession was gained high enough up the pitch and there was no pressure on the ball, the centre forward
used to exploit the available space near the sideline and in behind the opposition full back.

Most of the time, the No.10 made forward runs between the two centre backs and the winger used diagonal runs
towards the opposition’s goal. One of the defensive midfielders moved into a supporting position outside the
penalty area, while the other defensive midfielder stayed in a deeper position.

Situation 1
The left winger (11) intercepts the
centre back’s forward pass.

The centre forward (9) is positioned

on the strong side and No.10 is in the
centre.

After No.11 intercepts the ball, he

is free to pass forward as red No.8
has not closed him down on time.
No.9 takes advantage of the open
ball situation and moves towards
the available space on the left. No.10
makes a run between the 2 centre
backs who drop back and converge
to secure the central zone. The winger
(17) on the weak side makes a run
towards the goal in an attempt to
reach an effective attacking position
inside the box before the red left back
(3) manages to mark him.

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Direct Positive Transition

Lewandowski (9) delivers a cross towards

Mkhitaryan (10) and Aubameyang (17) who
have effective attacking positions inside the
penalty area.

Another option could be the diagonal pass to

the edge of the penalty area for either Reus
(11) or Gundogan (8).

The team is balanced and retains a good

shape.

Situation 2

In a similar situation to the previous one,

the red No.4 does not converge towards
the centre. Instead he stays close to
Lewandowski (9) in order to control a pass
towards him.

Mkhitaryan (10) exploits the space between

the two centre backs, receives and shoots on
goal.

Situation 3

After two consecutive passes, the ball ends

up in the red No.8’s possession.

Mkhitaryan (10) moves to contest him.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1

Mkhitaryan (10) manages to win

possession and moves forward with the
ball. Lewandowski (9) moves towards the
available space on the left and receives the
pass.

At the same time Aubameyang (17) moves

between the two centre backs who converge
to secure the central zone and the winger
Reus (11) on the strong side moves towards
the centre as Lewandowski has exploited the
space in front of him.

Lewandowski (9) dribbles inside and he

is ready to either deliver a cross for No.17
or pass to the edge of the penalty area for
No.11.

No.10 and No.8 move into supporting

positions. The team is balanced and retains
good shape.

As the right back Piszczek (26) stays in a deep

position, the left back (29) can move into a
more advanced position.

If the red No.4 stays in a wide position

to control Lewandowski (9) instead of
converging to reduce the available space in
the central zone, Mkhitaryan’s (10) pass can
be directed towards the path of Aubameyang
(17).

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Direct Positive Transition

Situation 4
The red centre back (4) passes towards No.7,
but the Dortmund defensive midfielder Kehl
(5) intercepts the ball.

Lewandowski (9) moves towards the

available space, Reus (11) moves towards the
inside and Mkhitaryan (10) between the two
centre backs.

On the weak side, Aubameyang (17) tries to

leave the red left back (3) behind and take up
an effective position inside the penalty area.

The pass is directed to Lewandowski high up

on the left flank.

Lewandowski can deliver a cross for

Mkhitaryan and Aubameyang inside the
box or pass to Reus (11) on the edge of the
penalty area.

The team is again balanced and retains good

shape.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1

Situation 5
The red centre back (4) plays a long pass
towards No.10, but Dortmund’s defensive
midfielder Gundogan (8) shifts across and
wins the header.

The ball is directed towards Mkhitaryan (10).

Mkhitaryan receives and moves forward with

the ball. A 3 v 2 situation is created and the
two red centre backs drop back and converge
towards the centre.

Mkhitaryan has two passing options towards

either Lewandowski (9) or Aubameyang (17).
Both of them take advantage of the available
space between the full backs and the centre
backs.

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Direct Positive Transition

Exploiting The Available Spaces (The No.10 Is

The First Defender)
In situations when the No.10 was the player who put pressure on the centre back in possession on the strong
side, the centre forward usually stayed high up the pitch in order to attack immediately after Borussia Dortmund
won possession.

When Borussia Dortmund’s players won possession, the two forwards made their movements to exploit the free
spaces and the two wingers then moved according to their movements.

Option 1

In this situation it is the No.10

who puts pressure on the man
in possession on the strong side.
So when Borussia Dortmund win
possession, No.10 is the player who
moves towards the available space on
the left.

The No.9 exploits the space in the

middle and the right winger (17)
exploits the space on the weak side.

Option 2

In a similar situation to the previous

one, the man who intercepts the ball
makes a first touch towards the inside.

No.9 makes a run towards the space

on the weak side and No.17 exploits
the free space in the central zone.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1

Tactical Analysis: Direct Positive Transition

(No.10 On The Strong Side)
When the No.10 was the player who moved to put pressure on the centre back in possession, he tried to exploit
the available space near the sideline after gaining possession.

The centre forward (9) was usually in an advanced position and either moved to attack the space in the central
zone or moved towards the blind side of the weak side’s centre back. Dortmund’s attacking midfielder on the
weak side adjusted his movement according to the movement of the centre forward.

Situation 1

The red No.4 tries to make a forward

pass, but Dortmund’s left winger Reus
(11) intercepts the ball.

Reus has available time and space

before No.8 manages to close him
down. Mkhitaryan (10) exploits the
free space on the left and receives the
pass from Reus.

Lewandowski (9) moves between the

two centre backs and Aubameyang
(17) moves towards the free space on
the blind side of red No.5. Gundogan
(8) moves into a supporting position.

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Direct Positive Transition

Mkhitaryan (10) has two options:

1. To deliver a cross into the penalty area for

Lewandowski (9) and Aubameyang (17).
2. Pass to the edge of the penalty area for
Gundogan (8) or Reus (11).

Situation 2

Red No.4 passes to No.8 and Dortmund’s

defensive midfielder (5) immediately puts
him under pressure.

Kehl (5) wins the duel and moves forward

with the ball. Lewandowski (9) makes a
movement to receive behind the two centre
backs (option 2).

Mkhitaryan (10) moves towards the

sideline into the free space (option 1) and
Aubameyang (17) makes a forward run on
the blind side of red No.5 (option 3).

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1

This is another example of how the players

exploited the free space. Lewandowski (9),
instead of moving between the two centre
backs, makes a movement towards the
blind side of red No.5. This action forces
Aubameyang (17) to move towards the
available space in the central zone.

Kehl (5) has 3 passing options again and has

to make the best choice.

Situation 3

In this situation, possession is won by the full

back in a deep position.

After two consecutive passes, the ball is

directed to No.7 near the sideline. The
Borussia Dortmund left back (29) puts the
new man in possession under pressure
immediately in order to prevent him from
turning.

Schmelzer (29) wins the ball and as he

has space and time available before No.8
manages to close him down. His teammates
move forward to exploit the available spaces.

Lewandowski (9) makes a diagonal run

between the two centre backs and receives
the long pass from the left back.

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Direct Positive Transition

Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices)

1. Defensive Movements and Quick Counter Attack on the
Flank with the Centre Forward on the Strong Side

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1

Objective
To practice the positive transition (win the ball and counter attack) with either the centre forward or the No.10 on
the strong side.

Description
In 2/3 of a full sized pitch, we position 4 mannequins with different colours (or 4 large coloured cones) as shown.
There are also 10 small cones in the positions shown and 3 blue zones to help players attack certain spaces in
order to receive the first pass.

The players take up positions on the cones according to their position. The centre forward (9) and the No.10 take
up positions on opposite sides (if the forward takes up a position on the left advanced cone, No.10 takes up a
position on the right lower cone).

The practice starts as soon as the coach starts calling out colours. The players have to move according to the
colour called out and take up defensive positions as if the mannequin with the specific color called out had
possession of the ball.

As soon as the coach passes a ball to one of the players on the strong side (winger, full back, defensive midfielder
or No.10) as they are the most likely players to win possession when defending on the flank. The players attack
the spaces as there is an open ball situation and a direct transition is possible. All players must take part in the
forward running and take up the appropriate position (the defenders too). They must score within 6 seconds in
order for the goal to count.

The coach can put two players on each cone so when one attack is finished, another one can start immediately
after. No.9 takes up a different position each time (one on the left, one on the right).

Variation
The coach passes the ball into play when the No.10 is the player who puts pressure on the strong side. The
practice is then executed with him as the forward on the strong side (diagram 2).

Coaching Points
1. Players need to have quick reactions in order to respond properly to the colours called out by the coach.
2. The players need to act as in a game situation, taking advantage of the free spaces.
3. The focus of this practice is also on accurate passing and quick/accurate finishing (fast counter attack).

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Direct Positive Transition

PROGRESSION
2. Collective Defensive Movements, Press High and Quick
Counter Attack on the Flank in an 8 v 4 Practice

Description
This practice is a progression of the previous one and we add 4 red defenders who are positioned on cones
with different colours. The centre forward is the player who applies the first pressure on the strong side and will
receive the first pass into the blue zone (in behind the defensive line).

The coach calls out colours and the yellow players move according to which colour is called out. The coach
passes a ball to one of the yellow players who then has to start the positive transition (counter attack). Refer to
the description of the previous practice.

The yellows play against the 4 red defenders and must complete the attack within 8-10 seconds. The red players
track back to defend their goal.

Variation
Make the No.10 the first player to apply pressure on the strong side and therefore the first player to receive in the
blue zone.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1

PROGRESSION
3. Collective Defensive Movements, Press High and Quick
Counter Attacks in an 8 v 8 Transition Game

Description
In a 55 X 45 yard area, we play an 8 v 8 transition game with a red end line and 2 mini goals. In a 15 x 45 yard area,
the coach starts the game by passing to one of the red centre backs.

The aim for the red team is to score in the 2 mini goals. The yellow players try to win the ball and then counter
attack (scoring within 6-10 seconds). They can either dribble the ball through the red end line or receive a pass
beyond it to score a goal (the offside rule is applied).

Restriction
The red players are not allowed to defend beyond the red end line.

Coaching Points
1. The players need to act as in a game situation, taking advantage of the free spaces.
2. The focus is also on accurate passing and quick/accurate finishing (fast counter attack).

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Direct Positive Transition

PROGRESSION
4. Winning the Ball High Up and Quick Counter Attacks in
a 3 Zone 9 v 9 (+GK) Dynamic Transition Game

Description
In 2/3 of a full pitch for this progression, we play 9 v 10 and divide the playing area into 3 zones as shown. There
is a full sized goal with a goalkeeper at one end and 3 mini goals at the other. The red centre backs are positioned
within the dark blue zone and start by receiving from the goalkeeper.

The red players try to find a way to pass the ball towards the 3 forwards inside the light blue zone. If the forwards
manage to retain possession within this area for more than 4 seconds they score a goal. A goal is also scored after
scoring in any of the 3 mini goals.

The yellow players first defend against the yellow team’s aims, then aim to win the ball and finish their counter
attack 8-10 seconds by scoring in the goal past the goalkeeper.

Restriction
The red team are not allowed to use long (aerial) passes.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 1

PROGRESSION
5. Winning the Ball High Up and Quick Counter Attacks in
a 3 Zone 11 v 11 Transition Game

Description
In this progression of the previous practice, we now play 11 v 11 and add an extra full sized goal with a
goalkeeper.

The red players again aim to pass the ball to the 3 forwards inside the light blue zone and if they retain
possession within this area for more than 4 seconds they score a goal.

Both teams can also score by shooting in the goals past the respective goalkeepers (the reds must again do so
within 8-10 seconds of winning the ball).

Restriction
The red team are not allowed to use long (aerial) passes.

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Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass

POSITIVE TRANSITION
TACTICAL SITUATION 2

Indirect Positive Transition with a

Forward Pass

Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Forward Pass (Centre Forward Is On The Strong Side). . . . . . 222
Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Forward Pass (The No.10 Is On The Strong Side) . . . . . . . . . . . 223
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
1. Moving to Receive in the Passing Lanes: Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
2. Moving to Receive in the Passing Lanes: Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass
in a 6 v 6 (+GK) Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
3. Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass in a 3 Zone Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
4. Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass in a 9 v 9 (+GK) Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
5. Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass in an 11 v 11 Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 2

Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition

With A Forward Pass (Centre Forward Is On
The Strong Side)
As has already been mentioned, when Borussia Dortmund gained possession and there was immediate pressure
on the ball from the opposition, the forward pass was not possible. In these kinds of situations, the most
advanced player tried to take up a position towards a potential passing lane in order to provide an option for a
forward pass (rather than make a forward run towards the space for a pass that was impossible to be made). By
doing this, the players tried to create an open ball situation and then move to the available spaces.

Situation 1
The red centre back (4) tries to pass forward towards
red No.7, but Reus (11) intercepts the pass.

As the new man in possession is put under pressure

immediately, Lewandowski (9) does not make a
movement towards the available space on the left as
there is no available time and space for Reus (11) to
make this pass. Instead he moves quickly to provide a
passing option.

Reus passes to Lewandowski and he lays the ball off to

Mkhitaryan (10) who moves to receive. An open ball
situation is created.

Mkhitaryan moves forward with the ball and as the two

red centre backs converge to secure the central zone,
Lewandowski and Aubameyang (17) move towards the
available spaces, providing the man in possession with
2 passing options.

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Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass

Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition

With A Forward Pass (The No.10 Is On The
Strong Side)
When Borussia Dortmund gained possession and there was pressure on the ball immediately from opposition
players, there were usually two players (the centre forward and the No.10) in advanced positions. These two
players tried to take up positions towards the available passing lanes in order to provide the man in possession
(who lacked available time and space) options for a forward pass.

The midfielders made forward runs towards the available spaces at the same time, in order to receive the
potential back pass from the forwards so that an open ball situation could be created. As soon as an open ball
situation was created, the team could proceed with their counter attack by exploiting the free spaces.

Situation 1
The red centre back (4) attempts to make
a forward pass, but Kehl (5) intercepts the
ball.

As Kehl (5) is immediately put under by red

No.8 and there is no available space/time
for the man in possession, the two players
who are in advanced positions move
towards the available passing lanes.

Kehl passes to Lewandowski (9) who lays

the ball off to the forward moving winger
Aubameyang (17).

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 2

Aubameyang (17) moves forward with

the ball and No.9, No.10 and No.11 move
forward to receive the final pass.

The right back Piszczek (26) moves forward

on the right to provide a passing option
in case the forward pass cannot be made
(option 2).

The rest of the players move into positions

which ensure balance, good shape and
safety at the back.

Situation 2

In this variation to the previous situation,

Kehl (5) this time decides to pass to
Mkhitaryan (10) who lays the ball off to Reus
(11) who moves forward.

At the same time Aubameyang (17) makes a

forward run on the weak side.

Reus (11) receives the pass and moves

forward with the ball. There are 3 passing
options provided by Borussia Dortmund’s
players who exploit the available spaces.

The full back on the weak side (26) provides

another passing option in case the forward
pass is not possible.

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Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass

Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices)

1. Moving to Receive in the Passing Lanes: Indirect Positive
Transition with a Forward Pass

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 2

Objective
To practice moving to receive and the indirect positive transition with a forward pass.

Description
Using half a full sized pitch, the players are positioned on the yellow cones (and the centre forward and the No.10
are positioned on opposite sides). There are several large cones placed in rows of three which act as obstacles for
the potential forward passes.

The players practice a counter attack and must score within 6-10 seconds. Either the centre forward (diagram
1) or the No.10 (diagram 2) is on the strong side. The 4 mannequins are all different colours. The practice starts
when the coach calls out colours which represent where an opposition player has possession of the ball.

The players should take up their defensive positions in relation to the colours called out. As soon as the coach
makes a chipped pass (or throws a ball) to one of the players on the strong side, the forward(s) who is placed in
an advanced position moves to provide a passing option for a forward pass and then pass to a player who moves
into a supporting position.

Coaching Points
1. All the players need to demonstrate quick reactions after winning possession.
2. The key for a quick counter attack is to make a good movement into an available passing lanes (blocked by
the sets of 3 large cones).
3. Players need to take advantage of the free spaces which are signified by the blue zones.
4. The other key elements are the weight and accuracy of the passes (out in front of the players into the space so
they are able to run onto the ball), well timed runs and quick and accurate finishing.

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Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass

PROGRESSION
2. Moving to Receive in the Passing Lanes: Indirect Positive
Transition with a Forward Pass in a 6 v 6 (+GK) Practice

Description
In this progression of the previous practice, there are now 4 red defenders positioned on different colour cones
and two midfielders positioned in the centre (on the red cones).

The coach calls out colours and the yellow players must move accordingly again as if that player has possession
of the ball.

As soon as the coach plays a chipped ball (or throws it with his hands) the yellow players start to carry out the
positive transition. With an aerial ball, the transmission phase takes longer so the red players have enough time
to react and put immediate pressure on the ball.

There should be an indirect type of transition so the forward(s) move into available passing lanes to offer
forward passing option(s).

The yellow players should counter attack and must score within 6-10 seconds. Either the centre forward (9) or the
No.10 is on the strong side.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 2

PROGRESSION
3. Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass in a
3 Zone Transition Game

Description
In a 55 x 45 yards area we play an 8 v 8 small sided game. The first zone where the coach starts is 10 x 45 yards
and the blue zone which is marked out as shown is 20 x 45 yards.

The coach starts the game by passing to the red centre backs within the blue zone. The aim of the red team is to
score in the 2 mini goals. The yellow players try to win the ball, counter attack and score either by dribbling the
ball through the red end line or by receiving a pass beyond it (the offside rule is applied) within 6-10 seconds.

If after winning possession, the yellow team manage to produce a passing combination which involves a forward
pass and a back pass (or a forward pass and a pass for a third man run) within the blue zone, the goal counts
double.

Restriction
The red players are not allowed to use long (aerial) passes.

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Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass

PROGRESSION
4. Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass in a
9 v 9 (+GK) Transition Game

Description
In this progression, we play a 9 (+GK) v 9 game in 2/3 of a full pitch. There is one full sized goal with a goalkeeper
at one end and 3 mini goals at the other end.

The red players try to find a way to pass the ball towards the 3 forwards inside the light blue zone. If the forwards
manage to retain possession within this area for more than 4 seconds they score a goal. A goal is also scored after
scoring in any of the 3 mini goals.

The yellow players try to first defend against the yellow team’s aims, then win the ball and finish their counter
attack within 8-10 seconds by scoring in the goal past the goalkeeper.

If after winning possession, the yellows manage a passing combination involving a forward pass and a back pass
or a pass to a forward moving teammate within the central zone, the goal counts double.

Restriction
The red players are not allowed to use long (aerial) passes.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 2

PROGRESSION
5. Indirect Positive Transition with a Forward Pass in an
11 v 11 Transition Game

Description
In this progression to the previous game, the teams now play 11 v 11 and both try to score in full sized goals. The
red team can also score a goal if they manage to pass the ball towards the 4 forwards in the light blue zone and
maintain possession for more than 4 seconds.

The yellow players defend, try to win possession, then counter attack and score within 8-10 seconds. If they
manage to produce a combination which involves a forward pass and then a successful back pass or a pass to a
forward moving teammate within the dark blue zone, the goal counts double.

Restriction
The red players are not allowed to use long (aerial) passes.

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Indirect Positive Transition with a Switch of Play

POSITIVE TRANSITION
TACTICAL SITUATION 3

Indirect Positive Transition with a

Switch of Play

Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Switch Of Play (The Centre Forward On The Strong Side). . . 232
Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Switch Of Play (The No.10 On The Strong Side) . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
1. Defensive Movements and Quick Counter Attack with a Switch of Play to the Full Back on the Weak Side. . . . 234
2. Defensive Movements and Quick Counter Attack with a Switch of Play to the Full Back in an 8 v 4 Practice. . . 235
3. Indirect Positive Transition with Switch of Play in an 8 v 8 Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236
4. Indirect Positive Transition with Switch of Play in a 9 v 9 (+GK) Dynamic Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237
5. Indirect Positive Transition with Switch of Play in a 6 Zone 11 v 11 Dynamic Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 3

Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition

With A Switch Of Play (The Centre Forward
On The Strong Side)
If it was not possible to make the forward pass due to the heavy pressure of the opposition, the man in
possession had to direct the ball towards the weak side. The weak side’s full back provided a passing option by
making a forward run.

The red centre back (4) attempts to make a forward

pass, but Kehl (5) intercepts the ball.

Kehl (5) is put under immediate pressure and there is

no way for him to pass the ball forward.

Kehl dribbles the ball horizontally while Aubameyang

(17) makes a forward run which creates space for the
right back Piszczek (26).

Kehl plays a long ball (switch of play) towards

Piszczek and he has 2 passing options.

Borussia Dortmund’s attack can be carried out in the

same way as it was presented in the switching of play
section (Attacking Tactical Situation 12).

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Indirect Positive Transition with a Switch of Play

Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition

With A Switch Of Play (The No.10 On The
Strong Side)
The No.10 is on the strong side and Kehl (5) intercepts
the forward pass from the red centre back (4).

Kehl is put under immediate pressure by red No.8,

while both No.2 and No.6 shift across towards the ball
area. This makes the forward pass impossible, despite
the attempt of Lewandowski (9) and Mkhitaryan (10)
to take up positions towards the potential passing
lanes.

Aubameyang (17) makes a forward run to create

space for the right back Piszczek (26).

Kehl (5) plays a horizontal pass to No.8 who directs

the ball towards the weak side where the right back
(26) has already made a forward run.

Piszczek (26) receives and makes the pass towards

Aubameyang (17) in behind the red left back (3).

Aubameyang receives and delivers a cross for No.9,

No.10 and No.11.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 3

Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices)

1. Defensive Movements and Quick Counter Attack with a
Switch of Play to the Full Back on the Weak Side

Description
In 2/3 of a full sized pitch, there are 4 mannequins in deep positions and 2 blue zones near the sidelines which
act as target areas. There are also 4 big cones with different colours positioned as shown. The yellow players are
positioned on the red cones (No.9 and No.10 on opposite sides).

The cones represent an opposition player in possession and the players move into defensive positions according
to the colours called out. As soon as the coach passes the ball to the strong side (to the winger, full back,
defensive midfielder or No.10) the new player in possession must pass directly (or through a link player) to the
blue target zone on the weak side.

When the full back receives the ball in the blue target zone, he has 2 options for a final pass in behind (as shown
in the diagram). All players must take part by running forward to take up the appropriate position (the defenders
too). The attack should last no longer than 8-10 seconds. The coach can put two players on each cone, so when
one attack is finished another can start immediately. No.9 takes up a different position each time (one on the left,
one on the right).

Variation
The coach passes the ball into play with the No.10 as the player who applies pressure first on the strong side. The
practice is then executed with him as the forward on the strong side.

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Indirect Positive Transition with a Switch of Play

PROGRESSION
2. Defensive Movements and Quick Counter Attack with a
Switch of Play to the Full Back in an 8 v 4 Practice

Objective
To develop collective defensive movement and a quick counter attack with a switch of play.

Description
In this progression of the previous practice, 4 red defenders are added in place of the mannequins. They try to
prevent the yellows from scoring and are positioned on large cones of different colours.

As soon as the coach passes the ball to the strong side, the yellow players move according to the colour called
out and the new player in possession should direct the ball towards the blue target zones. The full back runs
forward and receives in the blue zone and the yellow team try to score (within 8-10 seconds)against the 4 red
defenders who drop back and can only defend within the red zone.

Coaching Points
1. The players need to utilise quick reactions to respond to the tactical situation.
2. The full back needs to time the run well to attack the free space and take advantage of it.
3. Well timed and accurate passes are needed, preferably out in front of players to run onto.
4. Quick combination play (1 touch if possible) as the team must finish the attack within 8-10 seconds.
5. There should also be emphasis on quick and accurate finishing.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 3

PROGRESSION
3. Indirect Positive Transition with Switch of Play in an
8 v 8 Transition Game

Description
The two teams play an 8 v 8 game in a 55 x 45 yard area. There is a blue zone (20 x 45 yards) marked out and two
yellow zones near the sidelines as shown.

The goalkeeper or coach passes a ball into play and the reds try to find a way to score in the 2 mini goals without
using long passes.

The yellows’ aim is to win possession and pass towards the target area (yellow zone) on the weak side. The full
back on the weak side should time their run to receive in the zone, exploit the space, receive and combine
with his teammates in order for his team to score a goal. The yellow team can score by either dribbling the ball
through the red end line or by receiving a pass beyond it within 8-10 seconds.

Restrictions
1. The red defenders can only defend within the low blue zone.
2. The red players are not allowed to contest their opponents within the 2 yellow zones.

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Indirect Positive Transition with a Switch of Play

PROGRESSION
4. Indirect Positive Transition with Switch of Play in a
9 v 9 (+GK) Dynamic Transition Game

Description
In this progression, the two teams now play a 9 (+GK) v 9 game.

The red team’s aim alters as they try to pass the ball towards the 3 forwards in the low light blue zone. If the red
forwards manage to retain possession within this area for more than 4 seconds they score a goal. A goal can still
also be scored in the 3 mini goals.

The yellow team’s aim remains the same as the previous practice.

Restrictions
1. The reds are not allowed to play long passes.
2. The red defenders can only defend within the high dark blue zone.
3. The red players are not allowed to contest their opponents within the 2 yellow zones near the sidelines.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 3

PROGRESSION
5. Indirect Positive Transition with Switch of Play in a
6 Zone 11 v 11 Dynamic Transition Game

Description
This is another progression of the same game and the two teams play 11 v 11. We now have two full sized goals
and both teams try to score against the goalkeepers.

The yellows aim to either score or maintain possession for 4 seconds in the light blue low zone. As soon as the
yellows win possession, they have to score within 8-10 seconds by first directing the ball towards the weak side’s
yellow target zone and then combining to finish the attack. The same restrictions apply.

ASSESSMENT:
All the previous practices can also be used in the next attacking situation to train the
players in situations where both the No.9 and No.10 were positioned on the strong side,
by simply putting the 2 starting cones for No.9 and No.10 in the centre (one in a more
advanced position). So when the practice or game starts, both the No.9 and No.10 can
take up positions on the strong side.

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Direct Positive Transition (Centre Forward & No.10 on Strong Side)

POSITIVE TRANSITION
TACTICAL SITUATION 4

Direct Positive Transition

(Both the Centre Forward & the
No.10 on the Strong Side)
Exploiting The Available Spaces (Both The Centre Forward And The No.10 On The Strong Side) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
Tactical Analysis: Direct Positive Transition (Both The Centre Forward And The No.10 On The Strong Side). . . . . . 241
Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244
1. Direct Positive Transition with Both the Centre Forward and No.10 to Attack on the Flanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244
2. Direct Positive Transition with Both the Centre Forward and No.10 on the Flank in an 8 v 6 (+GK) Practice. . . . 245
3. Direct Positive Transition to Create a 2 v 1 Situation on the Flank in a Dynamic Zone Play Transition Game. . . 246
4. Direct Positive Transition to Create a 2 v 1 Situation on the Flank in a 9 v 9 (+GK) 6 Zone Transition Game. . . . 247
5. Direct Positive Transition to Create a 2 v 1 Situation on the Flank in an 11 v 11
Dynamic 6 Zone Transition Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 4

Exploiting The Available Spaces (Both The

Centre Forward And The No.10 On The Strong
Side)
There were situations when the No.10 was positioned on the strong side and was also the player who put
pressure on the centre back. The weak side’s attacking midfielder shifted towards the strong side in order to
retain balance and be able to take over the role of the centre forward.

In situations like the ones to follow, the two forwards could both move towards the available space on the strong
side. This action could create a numerical advantage near the sideline and help Borussia Dortmund move the ball
higher up the pitch much more easily. However, both forwards were near the sideline, so someone else would
take over the role of the centre forward. This was the weak side’s winger who would move into the available
space in the central zone, while the other one usually arrived behind him just outside the penalty area. The
available space on the weak side was left unoccupied.

The left winger (11) intercepts the

ball. The centre forward (9) makes the
first movement towards the available
space on the left and the No.10 moves
afterwards to create a numerical
advantage against the red centre back
(4).

No.17 takes over the role of the centre

forward by moving towards the space
in the central zone and No.11 moves
behind him.

The left back (29) helps to apply

double marking on red No.7 together
with No.5 and Dortmund win
possession.

The No.10 moves towards the

available space on the left and the
centre forward (9) moves afterwards
to create a 2 v 1 situation. No.17 takes
over the role of the centre forward
and moves towards the space in the
central zone and No.11 moves behind
him.

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Direct Positive Transition (Centre Forward & No.10 on Strong Side)

Tactical Analysis: Direct Positive Transition

(Both The Centre Forward And The No.10 On
The Strong Side)
In situations when Borussia Dortmund were defending within the middle third, the centre forward and the No.10
were both positioned on the strong side. There was a strong possibility for these players to create a numerical
advantage near the sideline if possession was won on the strong side.

However, this action forced them away from the penalty area and they were unable to enter the box to make the
finishing touches. So the wingers would have to move into the central zone instead of them.

Situation 1

Reus (11) wins possession after the

red centre back’s (4) attempted pass is
intercepted.

Reus passes to the centre forward

Lewandowski (9) on the left, while
Mkhitaryan (10) makes a run in
behind red No.4. This creates a 2 v 1
situation.

Aubameyang (17) makes a

movement towards the central zone
and Gundogan (8) moves into a
supporting position.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 4

Borussia Dortmund’s players take advantage

of the 2 v 1 situation and Lewandowski (9)
passes to Mkhitaryan (10) who has made a
run in behind red No.4’s back.

Mkhitaryan moves forward with the ball and

can either deliver a cross or pass to the edge
of the penalty area.

Situation 2

Lewandowski (9) moves to apply pressure on

the ball and as Mkhitaryan (10) is already on
the strong side, Borussia Dortmund create a
numerical advantage near the ball zone.

After two passes, the ball is directed to the

red No.7, so Schmelzer (29) and Kehl (5) move
across to double mark him as shown.

Schmelzer passes to Mkhitaryan who exploits

the space on the left. At the same time,
the red No.4 moves to close him down and
Lewandowski makes a run in behind him. This
creates a numerical advantage (2 v 1) near
the ball zone again.

Aubameyang (17) moves into the central

zone and Reus (11) moves towards the inside.

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Direct Positive Transition (Centre Forward & No.10 on Strong Side)

Mkhitaryan (10) plays the pass into the path

of Lewandowski (9) high up on the flank.

Lewandowski dribbles the ball inside and

either delivers a cross for Aubameyang (17)
or passes to the edge of the box for Reus (11).

The team has a good shape and retains

balance.

Situation 3

In this situation, the red centre back (4) plays

a long ball towards the red centre forward (9).

Borussia Dortmund’s centre back Hummels

(15) moves to put him under pressure.
He manages to intercept the ball and the
ball is directed to the defensive midfielder
Gundogan (8).

Gundogan (8) moves forward with the ball

and has available time and space to make
the forward pass. No.9, No.10 and No.17 take
advantage of the open ball situation and
move forward to receive. As the red No.4
follows No.9’s movement towards the centre,
space is created for No.10, while No.17 takes
advantage of the available space on the weak
side. The man in possession has 3 available
passing options and he should make the best
choice.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 4

Session For This Tactical Situation (5 Practices)

1. Direct Positive Transition with Both the Centre Forward
and No.10 to Attack on the Flanks

Objective
To practice the positive transition with both the centre forward and the No.10 on the strong side.

Description
In this practice, the centre forward and the No.10 are positioned in the centre of the pitch on red cones. Both
players move towards the strong side as soon as the coach calls out a colour.

When the coach calls out a colour, the yellow players shift across to take up defensive positions as if the relevant
mannequin was a potential receiver of the next pass. The coach passes into play towards one of the players on
the strong side and the yellows counter attack (and must score within 6 seconds).

There are 2 extra mannequins, one in each blue zone near the sidelines. No.9 or No.10 moves to receive in the
blue zone and the other player moves to receive in behind (2 v 1 situation on the flank) and then delivers a cross
into or to the edge of the box.

Coaching Point
Players need to have quick reactions initially, before taking advantage of the free spaces for the attack.

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Direct Positive Transition (Centre Forward & No.10 on Strong Side)

PROGRESSION
2. Direct Positive Transition with Both the Centre Forward
and No.10 on the Flank in an 8 v 6 (+GK) Practice

Description
In this progression of the previous practice, we add 6 red players in place of the mannequins. The 4 defenders
are positioned on large cones with different colors and the defensive midfielders (6 and 8) are positioned on the
yellow cones as shown.

When the coach calls out a colour, the yellow players shift across to take up defensive positions as if the player on
that cone could receive the ball. The coach passes into play towards one of the players on the strong side and the
yellows counter attack (and must score within 8-10 seconds against 6 red players).

If the ball is passed to a player (No.9 or No.10) within the side blue zone, a 2 v 1 situation should be created. The
yellow players have to take advantage of this, dribble the ball through the red line or receive a pass beyond it
(the offside rule is applied) before making the final pass.

Restrictions
1. The red centre back on the strong side is not allowed to defend beyond the red end line.
2. The red full back can enter the blue zone only after both yellow players have entered it.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 4

PROGRESSION
3. Direct Positive Transition to Create a 2 v 1 Situation on
the Flank in a Dynamic Zone Play Transition Game

Description
In a 55 x 45 yard area, we mark out two yellow zones which is where the yellow players will seek to create a 2 v 1
situation and two blue low zones where there is a 3 v 3 situation in each. The two red centre backs are positioned
inside the yellow zones and the yellow No.9 and No.10 are positioned on the blue cones in the central area as
shown.

The coach starts the practice by passing to one of the red centre backs in a yellow zone and they pass to each
other, while the No.9 and No.10 take up positions according to the position of the ball. As soon as the ball enters
a blue zone near the sideline, No.10 enters the area and creates a 4 v 3 situation.

The reds try to score in the mini goal and the yellows try to win the ball, move the ball to the yellow zone, then
create and take advantage of the 2 v 1 situation against the centre back. They can score if they dribble the ball
through the red end line or receive a pass beyond it (offside rule is applied).

Restriction
The red centre back on the strong side is not allowed to defend beyond the red end line.

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Direct Positive Transition (Centre Forward & No.10 on Strong Side)

PROGRESSION
4. Direct Positive Transition to Create a 2 v 1 Situation on
the Flank in a 9 v 9 (+GK) 6 Zone Transition Game

Description
This 9 (+GK) v 9 game is played in 2/3 of a full pitch. The centre forward (9) and No.10 are positioned on the blue
cones. As soon as the goalkeeper passes towards one of the red centre backs, both No.9 and No.10 can take up
positions on the strong side. The reds’ aim is to pass the ball to the players inside the low blue zone and maintain
possession for more than 4 seconds. They can also score in the 3 mini goals.

The yellow players defend, try to win possession and then finish their counter attack within 8-10 seconds. If
they move the ball into a yellow zone, they can take advantage of the 2 v 1 situation and either dribble the ball
through the red end line or receive a pass beyond it before they attempt to score.

Restrictions
1. The red centre backs must receive outside the dark blue zone to leave space for the counter attack.
2. The attack should be developed on the side that the first pass from the goalkeeper is directed without the use
of long balls.
3. The red centre back on the strong side is not allowed to defend beyond the red end line.
4. The red full back can only enter the yellow zone after both yellow players have entered it.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 4

PROGRESSION
5. Direct Positive Transition to Create a 2 v 1 Situation on
the Flank in an 11 v 11 Dynamic 6 Zone Transition Game

Description
In this progression of the previous game, there are now 2 full sized goals. The two teams play an 11 v 11 game
with the same aims and restrictions, but they both try to score against the goalkeepers.

Coaching Point
In this session, the players need to be tactically aware to create and take advantage of the numerical superiority
(2 v 1) inside the side yellow zones.

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Indirect Positive Transition (Centre Forward & No.10 on Strong Side)

POSITIVE TRANSITION
TACTICAL SITUATION 5

Indirect Positive Transition

(Both the Centre Forward and the
No.10 on the Strong Side)
Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Forward Pass
(Both The Centre Forward & No.10 On The Strong Side). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250
Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition With A Switch Of Play
(Both The Centre Forward & No.10 On Strong Side). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 5

Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition

With A Forward Pass (Both The Centre
Forward & No.10 On The Strong Side)
When Borussia Dortmund gained possession and there was immediate pressure on the ball by the opposition
players, the most advanced forward tried to take up a position towards the available passing lane, in order to
receive and lay the ball off to the other forward or to the forward moving midfielders. Then, as there was an open
ball situation the counter attack was carried out the same way as the direct positive transition was carried out.

Situation 1

The red centre back (4) passes

towards No.7, but Reus (11) intercepts
the ball.

Reus (11) is immediately put under

pressure and only has a few seconds
available on the ball.

Lewandowski (9) moves towards

the available passing lane, while
Mkhitaryan (10) makes a forward
movement towards the space in the
central zone and Aubameyang (17)
moves to receive in the space on the
weak side. Lewandowski receives
and passes first time to Mkhitaryan.
An open ball situation is created for
Borussia Dortmund.

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Indirect Positive Transition (Centre Forward & No.10 on Strong Side)

Mkhitaryan (10) moves forward and has 3

available passing options:

1. Pass to Aubameyang (17) on the right

2. Pass to Lewandowski (9) on the left
3. Shoot

Situation 2

In this situation, the ball is directed into

No.7’s path after two passes.

Schmelzer (29) moves quickly and intercepts

the ball and then directs it towards Kehl (5).

Mkhitaryan (10) moves towards the available

space on the left and No.9 moves towards
the available passing lane at the same time.

Lewandowski (9) receives and passes first

time to Mkhitaryan on the flank, while
Aubameyang (17) takes advantage of the
space in the central zone.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 5

Mkhitaryan (10) moves forward with the ball

and he can either cross for Aubameyang (17)
or pass to Lewandowski (9) on the edge of
the penalty area.

The team is well balanced and retains good

shape again.

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Indirect Positive Transition (Centre Forward & No.10 on Strong Side)

Tactical Analysis: Indirect Positive Transition

With A Switch Of Play (Both The Centre
Forward & No.10 On Strong Side)
If the forward pass was not possible due to the heavy pressure of the opposition, the man in possession had to
direct the ball towards the weak side. The weak side’s full back provided a passing option by making a forward
run.

Hummels (15) intercepts the long pass towards

the red No.10 and directs the ball towards
Gundogan (8).

The new man in possession is immediately put

under pressure by No.6, while No.8 and No.11
shift back behind him and block the potential
forward passes.

Gundogan (8) directs the ball towards the weak

side where the right back Piszczek (26) has made
a forward run towards the available space. No.9,
No.10 and No.17 move into advanced positions.
Kehl (5) also moves forward between the lines.

Piszczek (26) moves further forward with the ball

and has two passing options.

He can either pass into the path of No.17 down

the line (option 1) which will enable him to make
the cross or pass towards the inside for No.5
(option 2), which will give him the chance for a
final pass in behind with several available passing
options.

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Positive Transition Tactical Situation 5

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Indirect Positive Transition (Centre Forward & No.10 on Strong Side)

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