Drill: 3v1 to 5v3 Rondo Transition Drill

Drill: 3v1 to 5v3 Rondo Transition Drill

Organization:

Set up a small rondo area (10x10 meters) in the center of a larger 25x25 meter area.
In the small rondo (inner area), play 3v1—three attackers keep possession against one defender.
Surrounding the small rondo is the larger area, where the teams will transition into a 5v3 once the ball moves outside.
After a loss of the ball, players transition from the 3v1 to the larger 5v3 rondo.
If the last attackers (now defenders), take the possession again - they play again 3v1 in the middle.

Objective:

Improve quick transitions from small-area play to larger space, encouraging players to adjust positioning and awareness.
Reinforce possession and support angles in both tight and expanded spaces.
Train transitional moments, where players move quickly between attack and defense phases.

Progressions:

Limit Touches: Allow only two touches in the larger 5v3 area to increase speed of play.
Add a Second Defender: Start with 3v2/4v2 and etc in the small rondo to increase pressure.

Key Coaching Points:

Speed and Timing of Transition: Encourage players to quickly reorganize when transitioning between the small and large rondo.
Awareness and Scanning: Players need to scan for space, teammates, and opposition movements as they move into the larger area.
Communication and Support: Reinforce communication between players to maintain shape and provide support angles during the transitions.
Pressuring the Ball: Defenders should apply immediate pressure upon transition to create urgency and increase recovery speed.
Coaching Questions:

To the players:
"How can you position yourself to make the transition smoother?"
"What should you focus on when moving from the smaller to the larger rondo?"
"How can you help your teammate when they’re under pressure?"
To the coach:
"Are players adapting to the change in space and pressure?"
"Are they maintaining composure while moving between zones?"
"Is the defensive team quick in their transition and pressure?"