Have you always felt that soccer was one of those games where you needed to be born with the skills to play? However, you are about to find out that is false. A bit of research and solid advice can help nearly everyone become skilled with the game of soccer. Continue on for great advice.

Do not attempt to take the ball into the goal if you not not in an optimal position. If there isn’t an open field, locate a teammate in a better position. Pass the ball to them vs running yourself towards the goal.

Always attempt collisions if you can. Watch where the other team is at all times. Doing this not only allows you to keep possession of the ball, but it also greatly reduces the possibility that you might be injured.

It might be obvious, but you have to watch the ball all the time. This is a fast-paced game and the ball could go from one person to another quite quickly. If you happen to lost sight of the soccer ball, you may give the other team an advantage.

Throw off defenders via dribbling in the direction that’s opposite to the one that you’re going. The defender will probably go after you and then you can change your path quickly once they are moving with you. This is great for bypassing defenders.

Come up with strategies with the help of your teammates. They ought to be able to tell when you’ll cross the soccer ball, so they’re able to get it. You may cross to the right during a couple plays and then to the left for another.

To earn a spot on the soccer team, make sure your competitive spirit shows. Do not give up on any play. Always give it your best when you are defending and attacking the ball. If your teammates are in trouble, do your best to help them out. Make sure you show every player your dedication in the game. If the coach thinks you are devoted, he will pick you.

All of the different surfaces across your foot have a different purpose in the game of soccer. Usually you will be using your instep and front of your foot as you dribble. Using both the outside and the inside of the foot makes your dribbling more effective. This is a good way to reduce pressure so you can easily keep the ball under control.

To keep your game at its best, you have to stay in good shape. If you gain weight, it will be difficult to play the game. Be sure to eat a healthy diet and eat healthy portion sizes.

Try practicing with people who have more experience than you. Practicing with experienced player will help you improve your soccer skills. Ask these players any questions you have and learn from them. Most players like to teach skills to other players. If you do not know any experienced players, go to games and ask players if they could help you learn.

Soccer is extremely physical, even if it seems less so than football. Don’t be afraid to run into someone. Physical play is not the same thing as playing dirty. Purposely kicking a player is dirty, but physical play in general is not. If you don’t like to be physical, you really should try getting over that. Wear your shin guards and a mouth guard to protect yourself.

As this article has shown you, soccer can be a game that anyone can succeed in. Research and determination is all it takes. The above article has given you some great tips to help you out. Keep learning to find out more.