If you play soccer, you should always strive to improve your skills. The information that follows will aid you in learning the skills of the game. Read on to learn tips from other expert soccer players.

If you’re looking for cleats, you have to get ones that fit properly. The cleats should have good arch support and fit snugly. You will also want to ensure that your ankles will move well. You can hurt yourself if you buy incorrect cleats, so be careful.

Never make the assumption that you’re out of the current play once you’ve passed a ball. Follow the recipient of your pass and look for an opportunity to help them. A good team member will pass it to you if you’re open.

Always try your best not to collide with other people when you’re on the soccer field. Therefore, you should aim to predict the movements of your opponent so that you do not crash into him. This will help you hold on to the ball and decreases your chances of being hurt.

Cross the ball to the same side for a few plays to establish a pattern. This will make the defense try to anticipate what’s going to happen next. Then, you can surprise them by not doing it.

Distance Runs

To help increase your stamina when playing soccer, train during your off season by doing long distance runs. A lot of soccer players are running about 8 miles during each game. By doing long distance runs, you will increase your stamina on the field.

If you are located in mid-field, notice what is happening on both ends. You should be ready to receive the ball from one side and transfer it to the other side immediately. By knowing where every defender is and where the open players are, you can be ready to help in scoring a goal.

Surprise is a useful tool when on the soccer field. Dribble to the right and then rush to the left. The opponent may be caught off guard, giving your teammates an advantage. While it could surprise your teammates at first, in the end they’ll start to get used to how you play.

As with so many things, good communication is a must in the game of soccer. Your team will improve if you all talk on the field. Professional players also count on good communication in order to win.

Try to practice with players that have more experience than you. This will stretch your abilities and will help improve your skills. Don’t be shy about asking good players for tips and assistance. Since they are accustomed to being on a team, they should be eager to help. If you don’t know anyone who is better than you, talk to players at games played nearby.

Play soccer indoors rather than outdoors on occasion. This forces you to play on a field that is smaller. Therefore, more emphasis on ball control and decision making will be needed. Doing this can really improve your game on the outdoor field.

Find a professional player who plays the same position you do and watch how he plays throughout a game. By mimicking the pro, you’ll naturally become a better player. If they have signature moves, learn those and start using them in your game.

Break tight defenses by triangulating. Keep the ball moving rapidly between teammates to keep the opponents confused. This passing can effectively break down a tight defense. Stay aware of teammates trying to do it as well.

Learn to kick the ball with your weaker foot. If the opposing team always knows which foot is your strongest, you essentially give them an advantage to steal the ball. The ability to shoot with either foot will make you a much more valuable player on your team.

Finally, it’s time to take what you’ve learned onto the field and put it to the test. Now that you have learned more about soccer, you can start using these new tips on the field. Keep all of this information on mind to make yourself a better player and teammate. But most importantly, have fun!