Opening play is a key skill in football that helps the team control the flow of the game from the start. This keyword includes exercises and strategies that develop players' ability to build attacks starting from defense, improve passing accuracy, and enhance space utilization.

Mark the goalkeeper's area on the field (e.g., play on a full-size field, use cones/flat markers, or similar). The game starts with the goalkeeper's opening play. The goalkeeper can dribble or pass the ball (by kicking/throwing, considering the box area). The defending team tries to steal the ball and score. The attacking team tries to score in the goals at the other end (can also use cone goals/dribbling goals). Note: Nothing prevents the goalkeeper from scoring a goal themselves. If needed, a scoring area can be added to the field to prevent random shooting.

The aim is to avoid dangerous lateral passes between field players in their own half, instead teaching them to circulate the ball through the goalkeeper/deepest player when forward progression is blocked. Diagonal passes are okay.

Football (soccer) drill library: Opening play

Drills: Opening play

Game Opening

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