8. Recovery runs - FIFA Training Centre

Given that transitions are such a key feature in futsal, exercises that work on players’ ability to transition from the attacking to the defensive phase – a prerequisite to compete at elite level – should feature in any fitness training programme within the sport. This exercise focuses specifically on attacking players transitioning to make recovery runs.

After finishing the attack, the orange player must start a recovery run to defend against the blue player.

Organisation

Use a full pitch.
Place a goalkeeper in each goal.
Divide the group into 2 teams of 6 (oranges and blues).
Line each team up beside a goal and give each player a ball.

Explanation

The first orange player in the queue dribbles as fast as they can towards the goal at the opposite end of the pitch.
As soon as they enter the end zone (delimited by the 10-metre mark), the first blue player in the queue dribbles as fast as they can towards the opposite end of the pitch.
Immediately after making an attempt on goal, the orange player chases the blue player and tries to prevent them from scoring.
If the ball goes out of play by passing over a touchline, the move is over, and the next player advances towards goal.
The sequence is repeated until all players have had a go.

Coaching points

Players should perform all actions at maximum intensity.
When making an attempt on goal at maximum intensity, players should pay extra attention to hitting the target and challenging the goalkeeper.
Players should focus on recovering quickly and preventing the opposition player from scoring.