Most people that play soccer want to do their best. Just wanting to get better isn’t enough, though. As well as reading about how to improve your game, it’s imperative to practice regularly. Below is some great advice you can begin to try out for yourself.

Avoid going to the goal with the ball unless you’re in the right position. Look for a person on your team that is in a good position if the field isn’t open. Pass the ball to them vs running yourself towards the goal.

Always attempt to avoid a collision between yourself and another player whenever possible. Learn to anticipate where a given opponent will be so that you don’t have to make contact. This technique helps you maintain control of the ball, as well as reducing your chances of getting injured.

As obvious as it seems, you must maintain full visual of the ball at every minute. The game is really quick and the ball is able to cross the field quite quickly if you’re not paying attention. Losing the ball will give your opponent the chance they need to take it to the goal and score.

Surprising your opponent is a great way to attack them. Skilled soccer players will be able to quickly spot plays you are doing, and if you do the same plays over and over again, they will predict them every time. If defenders are rushing at you, move the ball behind you or to the opposite field side.

For a couple of plays, try to cross the ball the same way. The defense will quickly notice this pattern and anticipate it. Then, you can surprise them by not doing it.

Work out a set of strategies and plays with your team. They should be aware of all of the moves you plan to make. For example, you veer right for a couple of plays, then veer left.

If you have possession of the soccer ball and an opponent is rushing you, fake a pass. You should see them stop momentarily and that will give you additional seconds to figure out your next move. Really animate your movements so the tactic will be more successful.

Trying to catch your opponent off guard is a good soccer strategy. Dribble to the right and pass to the left. This move may be unexpected and open the field for an action by your teammates. Your teammates may also express surprise, but they will quickly adapt to your new moves.

Identify a pro player at the same position as you and watch their techniques. You’ll improve your play by copying some of their moves. Start adding their signature moves to your play.

Don’t make the same mistake twice. If you happen to see that you always have the ball stolen from you during the dribble, learn from that. Ask others who don’t have this problem how they avoid it. Practice kicking the ball on your own time to perfect your accuracy and control.

If you try out as a player on a soccer team, show off what you know well instead of moves you are not comfortable with. If you haven’t been successful in practicing a move, a tryout is not the place to try it again.

Speak with parents and ask that they get soccer balls to bring to practice. That makes certain all the players can practice at home. However, you should also ensure you have a couple spare just in case one is left at home inadvertently. To prevent this from constantly happening, have players that forget the ball run some extra plays.

Now it’s time to quit reading and start putting your newly-gained knowledge to the test. Practice these skills and teach them to your teammates as well. When you practice together, your team skills will improve and it will give a better chance at winning that important game.