Futbol Island

9v9 lesson · Share the next job · Intermediate

Win It: Look, Then Choose

After gaining possession, use a clear forward advantage or secure the ball.

What the coach says

  1. Gold has just recovered the ball. The forward has moved into a clear lane.
  2. Look ahead before choosing the next pass.
  3. Pass forward before the defense recovers.
  4. Send the ball back so we can compare another picture.
  5. This time, an opponent moves into the forward passing lane.
  6. The right midfielder offers another route.
  7. Connect sideways and let the team spread.
  8. The passer moves to offer support for the next decision.

Quiz questions

Try to answer before you read the coach’s explanation. On the island you answer each one on the pitch.

  1. Question 1

    Which passing lane is clear?

    • Forward
    • Right midfielder

    Coach’s explanation: The opponent screens the sideways pass to the right midfielder. The forward lane is clear, so use that opportunity.

  2. Question 2

    What keeps possession in this picture?

    • Forward
    • Right midfielder

    Coach’s explanation: The opponent now blocks the forward route and has left the sideways lane. Connect to the right midfielder to keep possession.

  3. Question 3

    True or false? The pass forward to the striker is still safe here.

    • False
    • True

    Coach’s explanation: It's false. An opponent has stepped into that lane, so the pass could be cut out.

  4. Question 4

    The right midfielder has the ball. Tap where the left midfielder should move to support.

    • A short angle behind the ball
    • Behind the opponent, in the blocked lane
    • Far out wide, away from the play

    Coach’s explanation: A short angle behind the ball gives a clear, safe pass for the next decision.

  5. Question 5

    Now an opponent blocks the sideways pass instead. Which pass is best?

    • Pass forward to the striker
    • Pass sideways to the right midfielder
    • Pass up the line to the left winger

    Coach’s explanation: The forward lane is clear, so we pass before the defense recovers.

Play it on the island