Soccer is just like any other sport when it comes to the basics. You need a foundation of dedication, determination and lots of practice. But it also takes skill, so here are some tricks for you to master. Read up on ways to become a better player and then take to the field and show what you have learned.
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.
Each soccer team has two or three play makers. These players are more talented than others and always get the ball since they are able to go past the other team’s defense. They will then score or pass the ball to a player who is ready to score. You can become one of these players if you practice.
Just because you don’t have possession of the ball, doensn’t mean you aren’t still in play. You may want to follow the receiver and search for a way to help. If your teammate is a good player, he will know when to pass the ball back to you if he gets into trouble.
When a defender is moving to you, pass the ball. Hold onto the ball as long as possible, but advance steadily and pass when necessary. Your teammate whill have a couple seconds before the defender close in on their position.
You can improve your defense with a simple drill. Dribble the ball in a small space and have another player try taking it away from you. Keep the ball for as long as possible by shielding it with your entire body. Your defensive skills will improve as you practice with this simple drill.
Try pushing the ball with the inside of your foot if you need to defend it. This will give you more control and make it hard for the defender to steal it from you. Use your entire body to shield the ball from the defender and look for another player you can pass the ball to.
Although it is obvious, always keep your eye towards the ball throughout the game. This game is lightning fast, and the ball can get passed from one player to another in a blink of an eye. Losing the ball will give your opponent the chance they need to take it to the goal and score.
Switch the ball from one side to the other if you are trying to get away from a defender. Kick the ball with the inside of your foot and try gaining speed so you can escape the defender. Shield the ball with your body if the defender catches up to you.
Try to find ways that you can surprise the opposing team. Players that are good can figure out your moves and are going to predict what you’re doing. Mix-up the game and send the ball to different spots on the field to keep the opponent guessing.
Play with someone more experienced than you. It is one of the best ways to learn how to be better. By watching their style, you can mimic aspects of it in your own game. You may not even realize what you are doing in some cases, as you can pick things up without even trying in many cases.
Now you have gained some valuable knowledge on how to become a better soccer player. But just reading about it isn’t enough. You need to put that knowledge into action and start mastering those skills today. So grab your soccer ball and a good buddy and get out there and start practicing today.