Knowing how to play soccer is one thing, but continuing to learn more skills is how you make progress with your game. This article is here to discuss some major tips that you can take with you to the soccer field. Think about the following advice, and use it to better your game.
Communication is integral to the sport of soccer. You must communicate with your teammates to let them know when you want the ball. Tell your teammates what is happening on the field. A player who is trying to control the ball may not see a player from the other team coming up from behind.
To make the transition from receiving the ball to directing it more fluid, don’t trap or stop the ball completely. Instead, as the ball approaches, aim to make contact with the top or middle of the ball then tap it in the direction you want it to go and continue to maneuver down the field.
When a defender is rapidly approaching, pass the ball away. Keep the ball for as long as you can advance safely and pass it to another player once the defenders are on you. The other player is going to have a little while to get somewhere before defenders get there.
In order to become a good soccer player, you need to learn how to dribble. To properly dribble, keep your head down so you can see what you are doing, but still keep an eye on your opponent. Also, keep the ball near your feet at all times. Do this by using the outside and inside of your foot to carry the ball.
Both short and long passes are important in keeping the ball away from defenders. When you get close to the goal, short passes can be important in getting the ball to a teammate who is in better position. Long passes can be useful when a lot of activity is happening on one side of the field to keep your team in control of the ball.
When playing soccer, move the ball more than your body. This can help you save energy. If you’re running down the field frequently, you’ll be tired early into the game. Keep in mind that the ball always moves faster than you do. It’s better move it faster than moving yourself with it. Save your energy for when you need to run.
You should feel comfortable about pointing out issues to the other members of your team, even if you recently joined the team. Suggest some new strategies or draw their attention to mistakes you noticed. A team can usually benefit from a fresh perspective on the strategies and habits they have adopted.
Adding long distance running into your off-season training can be very beneficial. Soccer players run many miles during an average soccer game; estimates are that 8-10 miles are the average. By completing lots of distance runs, your stamina will grow, making you a much better player during games.
Practice passing by placing two small cones approximately a foot apart. Kick the ball through the obstacles to help you learn to pass between opponents and get it to your teammate. As you get better at this passing technique go for longer passes and move the cones closer together.
Be sure you are focusing on your weaknesses. Your game of soccer is only as good as your weakest technique. If your weakness is accuracy, then line up several balls in a row and continue shooting balls into the net. On the other hand, if your weakness is trapping, get someone to throw balls to you repeatedly. By improving the areas you are weakest at, you will notice your skills increase substantially.
If you are kicking the ball and you notice someone running towards you, do not panic. There is a very simple method of avoiding them. First, kick the ball to one side of your body. Once you do this, quickly kick the ball to the other side. If you do this fast enough, you will avoid your opponent and be ahead of them. As a result, you will be better prepared to score.
You can break apart tight defenses by triangulating. Having good awareness of your teammates is key, and moving the ball between each of you in order to get your opponent on their heels and allow you to move the ball quickly upfield. Stay focused on working with your team. Always be willing to help out teammates who are in the same situation.
As a soccer player, you need a good exercise regimen on the side of your regular practice and playing time. Core strengthening exercises are ideal, and can help you prepare for the hits you’re going to take to your stomach at times. These exercises also help with your stamina to keep moving vs feeling tired and in pain.
Surely you now feel much better with the acquired soccer knowledge from this article. You can now get out there on the soccer field and have fun utilizing the tips that have been described. No matter how far you go with your passion for soccer, learning the necessary skills will help you have much more fun.