Three-Goal Decision Game
Decision Making
Legend
- team player
- opponent
- ball
- mini goal
How it works
Attack three different mini goals in a small-sided game, requiring constant scanning and decision-making about which goal to attack.
What you need
- cones
- soccer ball
- scrimmage vests
- mini goals
Your focus
Having multiple goal options forces players to read the game before receiving and make real-time decisions about the most advantageous attack. This replicates the scanning and decision demands of actual match play.
Set up a 25x20 yard area with 3 mini goals spread around the perimeter.
Play 4v4. Players can score in any of the 3 goals.
After a goal is scored in one goal, that goal is 'locked' for 30 seconds.
Teams must switch which goal they attack, forcing continuous re-assessment.
Coach awards 1 bonus point for goals that follow a direction change.
Play 12 minutes.
Goal
Success is attacking the right goal based on where the space is, not just the nearest one. Three different goals means three different decisions, right choice, right moment.
Helpful cues
- Scan all three goals before you receive the ball
- Where are the defenders? Which goal is most open?
- Be ready to switch direction, don't commit until you see the space
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Two goals only; no locking rule.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
One goal is worth double, but changes every 2 minutes. Players must track which.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.