Developing diagonal movements in possession

DIAMOND RONDO

We set up on a quarter pitch. Four red players form the points of a 10x10m diamond, with two blue defenders inside. Outside red players maintain possession with diagonal passes, evading defenders to build quick circulation and awareness. Red players pass diagonally: A to C, B to D, and so on. As the blue defenders press, red players adjust to keep possession [1]. We run this for ten minutes.

[1]

1. Red A passes diagonally to Red B
2. Blue defenders press
3. Reds continue and seek to retain possession throughout

POSITIONAL GAME

We set up in a 30x30m square, split into four zones, with two teams of five, plus two neutral players. The objective is for teams to move the ball through zones using diagonal passes to neutrals or teammates, simulating structured build-up play. Teams occupy zones 1-3 (in this example, the reds) or 2-4 (the blues); neutrals (yellows) position centrally. Start with one team building from their zone. They must pass diagonally to advance, and they score with five consecutive passes [2]. Players stay in zones but can shift along lines; neutrals roam freely. We run this for 20 minutes, rotating players between teams and neutral, and providing rest.

[2]

1. Reds building from their zone
2. Reds seeking five consecutive passes then diagonal pass to progress
3. Blues pressing
4. Neutral yellow roaming freely

9v9 WITH DIAGONAL GOALS

We set up in a space 60x40m, with full size goals positioned at the top right and bottom left corners, and mini goals at the top left and bottom right. The aim here is for teams to score while prioritising diagonal play, getting two points if they score in the full size goal [3a] and one point if they score in the mini goal [3b]. We operate with standard rules, with diagonal offside lines 10m from each end, set out with cones. Teams set up in a 3-3-2 formation, and begin play from their full size goal. They should build with diagonal passes and runs into half-spaces. Play restarts from full size goals after scores or stoppages. We run this for 30 minutes.

This game tests players’ ability to apply diagonal play in a competitive setting. The diagonal goal set-up and scoring rules encourage build-up and penetration, mirroring real match demands.

For an extra progression we can play full-field 11v11 and require three diagonal passes before scoring, increasing the demand for speed and precision.

[3a]

1. Reds begin play
2. They exchange passes, seeking diagonal move where possible
3. Blues press
4. Reds score in full size goal, gaining two points

[3b]

1. Reds begin play
2. They exchange passes, seeking diagonal move where possible
3. Blues press
4. Reds score in mini goal, gaining one point

coaching points

What are the key things to look out for? 

• Diagonal runs into half-spaces or behind defenses, rewarding well-timed efforts
• Diagonal line-breaking passes that pack opponents, urging players to quicken their play
• Players seeking to maintain triangles and adjust positions and rotations for clear diagonal passing lines.

What are the typical mistakes players might make and how do I avoid them?

• Timing movements and arriving in the space to receive a diagonal pass from teammate
• Arriving too early could create tension for the ball before it’s played.

Timing diagonal passes and runs under pressure is tough. The rondo tests their awareness, the positional game demands constant scanning for lanes, and the 9v9 integrates these skills into fluid play. These challenges push players technical and tactical limits, improving their ability to break lines and move out of the cover shadow effectively.