Get your kicks out of tactical awareness. (offensive and defensive strategies in soccer)

After winning the ball, a team must provide width and depth to create space for ease of possession

As a soccer coach over the years, I have developed the essential qualities of tactical awareness through the use of small-game play. In my article last May/June, I explained how the 4v4 game could provide the hard facts needed to assess the players' strengths and weaknesses and to lay the foundation for tactical awareness.

To play the 4v4 game well and take something positive away from the experience, most players require a better understanding of the underlying strategy. Without such instruction, the game could easily deteriorate into a farrago of 1v1 offense, ...