Soccer is a fun game that you love, but may not completely understand. Are striving to be a certain type of soccer player? This article will give you some great advice to play better. Continue on and look over the advice in this article that will show you how to become a better soccer player.

When a defender is moving to you, pass the ball. Try to keep the soccer ball as long as possible, then pass it off. Another player can then have a bit of time before they’re attacked.

Always be seeking out methods of surprising the opposing team. Good players are going to recognize and predict all of your plays if you are someone who doesn’t do anything new. You need to get the ball away from you quickly and pass it elsewhere if you’re dealing with a bunch of defenders charging at you.

Trick defenders by dribbling away from your intended direction. Your defender will go with you, then you can lose them by switching sides quickly. That will help you get around them.

Adding long distance running into your off-season training can be very beneficial. It is hard to imagine, but the average distance each soccer player runs per game is about 8 miles! By completing lots of distance runs, your stamina will grow, making you a much better player during games.

Learn to use all of the surfaces on your foot when you play soccer. During fast dribbling, the instep and front of the foot are commonly used. You will improve your dribbling skills if you learn to use the outside and inside of your feet. That way, you will have heightened control of the ball regardless of what the defense players do.

If you’re trying to play soccer well, you have to remember that staying fit is key. Too much weight is going to make the game harder for you to play. Eat right, exercise and keep yourself healthy.

Identify a pro player at the same position as you and watch their techniques. By learning to imitate his strategies and techniques, you will become a better soccer player. If you notice the player has their own special moves, study them and begin using them in your game.

Learn from the mistakes you’ve made. If you’re dealing with the ball getting taken away, work on skills that prevent that from happening. Watch successful players dribble and learn from them. Go to your coach or teammates with any questions you may have.

To ensure you get drafted by the best soccer team possible, concentrate on highlighting the skills you have fully mastered. Wait until you’ve made the team before you try moves you’re not as good at.

Both feet need to be trained equally during soccer practices. Having two strong feet will allow you to be a lot more versatile. By having two strong feet, you can play both sides of the field and can defend the ball better.

It is important that your properly care for your goalie gloves. Begin by soaking your gloves in warm water with a small amount of soap added to the water for about an hour. Then, rinse the gloves until the water is clear. Then gently wring the glove and put the palm side facing down on the sink.

Keep learning when you make mistakes to be a great soccer player. To help, video record your practice sessions. Then, you can revert back to review the footage and find areas that need improvement. For instance, you might see that you’re not passing that well.

Weaker Foot

Work on focusing on your weaker foot when kicking the ball. If you only practice with your dominant foot, your weak foot will be a liability during a game. Practice with your weaker foot as much as possible to make it equal to your stronger foot. The most desirable and sought after players are those can use either foot effectively.

Prior to performing a soccer workout, it is important that you warm up properly. You’ll increase blood flow to your muscles by warming up. Begin your exercise routine doing gentle stretches alternated with walking so your muscles are ready for a soccer training workout.

Confidence is something you should play with. The game of soccer is equally mental as it is physical. Being able to control your mine will help you on the field. If you are worrying about making a mistake, you probably will. Consider what needs to happen in order to score, not what’s going to happen when you don’t score.

When you have possession of the ball, try running it in the direction of the ball. If you can’t do that, get to open space quickly. Speed is key to beating the defenders. Don’t let other players close in on you. Force them to defend.

You now have the knowledge you need to play a good game. Share it with your teammates as well, so that your entire team benefits from it. This article’s knowledge will surely benefit you; however, it is equally important that you continue to educate yourself all you can. Focused effort and continued practice will help you become a better soccer player.