Passing Combinations with Finishing: La Trenza

Three players executing la trenza passing combinations on both wings of the pitch.
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“La Trenza” (the braid) is a classic South American pattern that strings together diagonal passes, overlaps, and a final finish. This variation keeps three field players plus a goalkeeper in constant motion, demanding sharp first touches and pace on the ball.

Setup

  • Players: 3 outfielders + 1 goalkeeper. Run twin groups if you have half a squad.
  • Area: Half pitch with two mirrored running lanes (5 cones each) leading to the goal.
  • Equipment: Cones for lanes, plenty of balls to keep the rhythm, one full-size goal with a goalkeeper.

Stagger the cones so each lane offers space to cross the ball from inside to the opposite channel. Player 1 starts centrally on the halfway line, while Players 2 and 3 begin on the outside lanes beside cone two on each side.

Instructions

  1. Player 1 plays into Player 2 on the right lane and overlaps to the next cone.
  2. Player 2 clips a diagonal pass to Player 3 on the far lane, then sprints to follow the ball.
  3. Player 3 crosses back to Player 1, now running the opposite lane.
  4. The braid continues until the group reaches the final cones by the box.
  5. The wide player at the final cone lays the ball to the penalty spot.
  6. The original central player arrives to finish first time against the keeper.

After the shot, recycle quickly: the shooter collects a new ball and becomes the passer for the next repetition while the other two rotate into the opposite lanes. Give every player at least three shots per rotation.

Animation of la trenza passing drill

Coaching points

  • Demand angled first touches that set the next pass.
  • Cross the ball firmly across the pitch—floaty passes ruin the rhythm.
  • Time the final lay-off so the finisher hits the ball on the move.
  • Goalkeeper holds the line until the ball is played to the penalty spot, mimicking match tempo.

Variations

  • Add a trailing defender to chase the final cross and pressure the shot.
  • Limit touches to one-touch in the lanes once players are confident.
  • Mirror to both goals if you have 6+ players and a full pitch.

Takeaways

  • First touch & passing—players must cushion and fire the ball accurately while sprinting through cones.
  • Crossing awareness—diagonal passes teach players to visualise the opposite lane and weight the ball correctly.
  • Quick finishing—arriving at pace and striking without extra touches sharpens timing in the box.
  • Goalkeeper reactions—keepers learn to read angled balls before explosive close-range saves.

Run La Trenza lately? Share your tweaks or video clips in our Facebook group or tag @footballtechnik on Instagram—we love seeing how you adapt these passing braids.

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