Soccer Drills - 1v1 Closeout

The 1v1 Closeout Drill is a fundamental defensive training exercise that helps players improve their ability to shut down attackers, maintain proper positioning, and force play away from dangerous areas.

Train defenders to quickly close down space, stay balanced, and force attackers away from goal or into less threatening areas.

• Players: 2 (1 attacker, 1 defender)
• Area: 10x15 yards or similar
• Equipment: Cones to mark the area, ball

1. Start Positions:
   • Attacker has the ball at one end.
   • Defender starts 5–7 yards away, directly in front.
2. On the Coach's Signal:
   • Attacker tries to dribble past the defender and reach a target line or small goal.
   • Defender sprints to close the gap quickly while staying under control.
3. Defender Focus:
   • Approach fast, then slow down to control.
   • Use side-on body position (not square) to guide the attacker to their weaker side or away from goal.
   • Stay low and balanced, ready to shift side-to-side.
   • Watch the ball, not the attacker's feet or body feints.
4. Goal:
   • Defender prevents the attacker from scoring or crossing the target line.
   • Rotate roles after each turn.

• "Close fast, arrive slow" – Sprint to close space, then get low and under control.
• Keep arms out and knees bent for balance and reaction.
• Don't dive in—wait for the attacker to make the mistake.

• Add a small goal behind the defender for the attacker to shoot on.
• Limit the number of touches for the attacker to increase defender pressure.
• Add recovery defenders or make it a 2v1 to work on cover support.