If you’re hesitant to play soccer because you’re afraid you won’t be good enough, keep reading. Maybe you are already a player, but want to get better. Read these tips for some great advice for both experts and beginners to better their game. Don’t be left in the dark about soccer anymore.
Do not take the ball toward the goal if you are not in an ideal position. If you are blocked from advancing the ball, search for an open teammate that can help you advance the ball. Pass the ball to them vs running yourself towards the goal.
It is always best to avoid collisions with other players. Therefore, you should aim to predict the movements of your opponent so that you do not crash into him. This helps you not lose possession and helps you to avoid those unwanted injuries.
When a defender is moving to you, pass the ball. Maintain ball control and advance safely. Pass as soon as defenders have closed in on you. This will allow your teammates some seconds before the defenders change targets and close in.
Using the instep to kick provides great accuracy. Kicking the ball dead on with the top of your foot is best for kicking a long pass. It is important to not only maintain control of the ball, but to kick with accuracy as well.
An important skill to become familiar with is called the “Outside Elastico.” When you are at the flanks, this move can help transition to an inside cut. For starters, place a cone or something similar as a marker on the ground. Take 5 steps away from the cone. Start dribbling back in its direction. Once you are close, touch outside and to the inside. It is the outside touch which tricks the opponent. Understand that the second touch should always be larger than the first.
If your area is teeming with defenders, pass the ball out to an open spot. There needs to be a couple seconds before those defenders cross and this can reduce the risk of losing the soccer ball when the area is crowded.
Soccer is, at its essence, a team sport. You must always keep this in mind. If you are not working together with your teammates, you’re much more likely to lose the game. Play for the whole team. Forget about the solo glory and make the sacrifices that will help your team succeed, thus helping you succeed.
Work with your teammates to establish game strategies. Learn when each of you will be crossing the ball. For instance, you could cross each ball towards the right during a couple of plays, and the third time go to the left.
Practice and commitment is the only way to get better. Becoming a good player does not happen overnight. Practice daily to ensure you get better. You should always practice all skills even if they seem simple. Don’t stop practicing the things you’re good at because you need to maintain and improve those skills too.
Now that you have this new body of knowledge, you need not fear about peaking your skills. Use this information when you practice to better your game. No one enjoys losing; everyone would like to win.