The art of set pieces involves creating opportunities for scoring by effectively utilizing free kicks, corner kicks, and penalty kicks. Here are some examples of how coaches can use set pieces to create scoring opportunities:

1. Free Kicks – When a team is awarded a free kick, the coach can use this opportunity to create a strategic play that can result in a goal. For example, the coach might have the players line up in a certain formation to create confusion for the opposing team or have a designated player take the free kick with a specific technique to create a dangerous ball in front of the goal. Another approach could be to create a distraction, where a player runs over the ball or makes a false start to throw off the opposing team’s defense.

2. Corner Kicks – Corner kicks are another great opportunity for a team to score a goal. Coaches can use a variety of set plays, such as having a player make a run from the far post or having players create a screen to block the opposing team’s goalkeeper from making a save. Alternatively, a coach may opt to have players take a short corner kick to start a new play that can catch the opposing team off-guard and create a goal-scoring opportunity.

3. Penalty Kicks – Penalty kicks are some of the most high-pressure situations in soccer, but a coach can still take steps to increase the chances of success. One approach might be to have a designated player who is confident and skilled at taking penalty kicks, or to have a set routine that the players practice regularly in order to build confidence and consistency. Additionally, a coach might have players practice shooting from penalty kick positions during training sessions, which can help the team develop the skills necessary to convert these opportunities into goals.

One thing that many teams, players, or coaches may not think about when it comes to set pieces is the importance of quick and efficient transitions from defense to attack. Set pieces often involve a large number of players moving into the opposing team’s penalty area, leaving few players behind to defend against a possible counter-attack. This can leave a team vulnerable if the opposing team gains possession of the ball and quickly transitions to attack.

To prevent this, coaches can work with their team to develop a set of clear and concise instructions for quickly transitioning from defense to attack following a set piece. For example, players who are not involved in the set piece can be designated to stay behind and defend, while others can be assigned to quickly move into positions to receive a potential counter-attacking pass. Additionally, coaches can emphasize the importance of maintaining shape and balance, even during the attack, to ensure that the team is well-positioned to defend against any potential counter-attacks.

By considering the importance of quick and efficient transitions from defense to attack following set pieces, teams, players, and coaches can better utilize these opportunities to create scoring chances while minimizing the risk of conceding goals.

Set pieces can be a valuable tool for soccer coaches looking to create scoring opportunities for their teams. By developing strategic plays for free kicks and corner kicks, and building players’ skills and confidence for penalty kicks, coaches can help their team take advantage of these opportunities and score more goals. With proper planning and execution, set pieces can be a powerful tool in a coach’s arsenal to lead their team to victory.

For more information on how Sogility can help coaches focus on tactical work and not have to worry about technical as much, visit sogility.net/coaches.