Because it is so popular across the world, it is easy to see why so many want to learn all they can about soccer. You can become a good player if you are ready to work hard and train regularly. This article is chock full of great tips to make you a better player.
Once a defender is closing in on you, pass the ball. If you must dribble, dribble as far as possible, but pass as soon as a defender advances on you. The other player will then have a few seconds before defenders close in on them.
If there is a lot of action on the side of the playing field, do what you can to get the ball to an unguarded player. The defenders will be seconds behind, but it should be enough time for the ball to move out of a busy area.
Find ways to shock the opposing team. All good players know how to take advantage of an opponent’s weakness, especially if you’re doing the same thing over and over again. Therefore, try mixing your plays up. Dribble the ball on an opposite side or behind you whenever defenders are quickly closing in.
Pass the ball in one direction several times to start a noticeable pattern. The opponent will take notice of the pattern and expect the same move a third or fourth time. Then, you can surprise them by not doing it.
Get some strategies in place by working with your team. They need to know what you’ll be doing with the ball so they’re able to get to it at the right time. For example, you may cross the ball in one area for a couple of plays and then switch sides for the subsequent play.
Few players know how to control lofted balls. If you want to pass the ball to your teammate without the other team getting it, your passes should be low so you can whip it. However, if a player is within an empty spot, then lofted balls can be utilized.
In order to maximize your stamina, it is important that you run long distances frequently, even during off seasons. Within a typical soccer game, a player will run around eight miles. Running distances will improve your stamina, improve your soccer skills and reduce the number of breaks you need each game.
Always wear the correct shoes when you play soccer. Football cleats and tennis shoes are never acceptable. Wearing the wrong shoes can cause injuries.
Don’t make the same mistake twice. For instance, you may notice that each time you dribble you get the ball taken away. Watch someone successfully dribble to find out what you are missing. If dribbling is something you can’t do well, see if a teammate can help.
If you try out for a team, focus on the things you do best and feel comfortable with rather than showing off and trying to do something you cannot fully master. If you haven’t practiced it enough, don’t do that move.
Practice kicking the ball with your non-dominant foot. Many people waste a lot of time trying to switch the ball to the stronger foot, which gives the opposing team a chance to steal it. The ability to shoot with either foot will make you a much more valuable player on your team.
Try watching professional games online and on the TV to learn better soccer skills. This makes learning the rules easier and can also show you how to play well. While this can’t replace practice time, it is a very important element of improving your game and helps reinforce what you’re learning on the field.
There is no other sport that is better loved across the world than soccer. However, it’s not well understood or easily mastered by most. Hopefully, these tips have given you the edge you need.
