Designing games for development

The role of player numbers and space

At the centre of game-based training is the ability to exaggerate elements of real matches. In Part 1, we introduce the concept of game-based training by exploring the impact of player numbers and space.

The importance of targets and rules

After introducing the role of space and player numbers in Part 1, the second part of the series explores how targets and rules influence what players are trying to achieve during practice games – and how they choose to achieve it.

3v3 Funino – Developing game understanding and decision making

The first game of the series is Funino, which has become one of the most influential small-sided game formats in youth football. Its value lies not only in the amount of involvement it creates, but in how it develops game understanding and decision-making.

3v3 break the press, turn and finish: Developing well-rounded players

In the second game of the series, players take part in a small-sided format that exaggerates football’s defining moments. Explore more to see how you can use this game to create a rich learning environment for your players.