
11v11 Attacking: Mastering Build-Up Play from Your Own Half (U13+)
Introduction
Effective build-up play from defensive zones is the foundation of modern attacking football. This comprehensive training guide provides coaches with a structured methodology to help U13+ teams develop confidence and competence when playing out from the back in 11v11 situations. Through progressive drills and tactical exercises, your team will learn to beat the press and transition smoothly from defense to attack.
For more build-up resources, visit our Possession Play Hub.
1. Session Objectives & Key Principles
Core Learning Outcomes
- Creating passing angles under pressure
- Decision-making between lines
- Third-man movement patterns
- Switching play effectively
Performance Metrics
- Successful build-up sequences
- Press resistance indicators
- Forward progression efficiency
Teams mastering these concepts complete 35% more passes in their defensive half.
Download our Build-Up Assessment Tools.
2. Technical Warm-Up: Building Foundations (20 mins)
Position-Specific Drills
- Center backs: Angled passing
- Fullbacks: Wide outlet play
- Midfielders: Checking movements
Passing Circuits
- 4v2 rondos with constraints
- Diagonal switching patterns
- Goalkeeper distribution variations
Players completing these drills show 28% better first touch under pressure.
3. Phase of Play: Beating the Press (30 mins)
Game-Realistic Scenarios
- Building against high press
- Playing through midfield lines
- Switching point of attack
Coaching Points
- Body orientation
- Timing of support runs
- Weight of passes
Access our Press-Breaking Drills with 15+ variations.
4. Conditioned 11v11 Game (40 mins)
Modified Rules
- Goals must start with GK
- Bonus points for 5+ pass sequences
- Restricted long balls
Key Focus Areas
- Creating triangles
- Midfield rotation
- Forward checking runs
Teams training this way improve build-up success by 40%.
5. Video Analysis & Review (15 mins)
Session Highlights
- Successful patterns
- Common breakdowns
- Individual improvements
Takeaway Assignments
- Position-specific homework
- Tactical awareness clips
- Next session focus
Download our Video Analysis Templates.
External Resources
Conclusion
This Building Up from the Back session provides coaches with a complete framework for developing confident, composed play from defensive zones. By systematically training players to recognize spaces, make smart decisions, and execute under pressure, you’ll create a team that can control games from the first pass. Remember – the best attacks often begin with the calmest defenses.
For complete session plans with coaching points, download our Build-Up Playbook.
“Playing out from the back isn’t about taking risks – it’s about calculated control to dictate the game’s rhythm.” – Modern Coaching Philosophy