Soccer Fundamentals

"Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all,
love of what you are doing or learning to do." ~Pele

Paul Scholes

Reuters

Here are the fundamental aspects of soccer to keep in mind, both defensively and when attacking,
for soccer players of all levels. Of course, don't forget to enjoy yourself when playing, try new things
on the pitch and take players on. What separates the great soccer players from the average players is
their ability to do that something extra special on the ball - beat a player on the dribble and score or
cross the ball to a teammate with precision.

However, a soccer player must learn to do all the simple things pefectly before moving on to the
those tricky moves. Master dribbling, shooting, passing, juggling, crossing, and the other
fundamentals of soccer before trying to do those Cristiano Ronaldo type step overs. If you look at
someone like Manchester United's Paul Scholes, here's a player who has exceptional control and
touch on the ball. Scholes is someone who rarely makes a bad pass or loses the soccer ball. He plays
smart and simple one and two touch soccer. He's extremely focused. His only weakness might be his
tackling ability - since he usually fouls the other player.

At the same time though, look at a player like Ronaldinho, who in his glory days at Barcelona was
deadly focused but also had fun and enjoyed himself. Ronaldinho was always smiling and cheering
his teammates on. Above all, he wants the ball at his feet and wants to make things happen on the
soccer field. That's infectious and that's something you should add to your game if you don't have it
already.

General Soccer Fundamentals

Keep high concentration at all times no matter what the score.

Stay fit - build endurance and strength.

Be positive and play your best.

Have realistic expectations of teammates.

Communicate on the field (don't scream or blame each other). Give direction, 'you have time', 'man
on'.

Have the ability to combine with players through overlaps, wall passes, and take overs on the
dribble.

Show creativity and vision.

Play the way you're facing (play simple).

Control the ball out in front of you so you can make the next play and don't have the ball trapped
under your feet.

Defensive Fundamentals of Soccer

Be aware at all times.

Play smart and anticipate what's going to happen.

Always get behind the ball on defense.

Stay on the goal side when defending.

When challenged, make the play predictable so your teammate can anticipate the next pass or play.

To make a player commit, take a quick step forward and quickly back off using your body to block
the run. Not obstructing the player but anticipating the play.

When faced with a two on one: buy time until help arrives (concede space a bit of space, don't dive
in); take away the pass and force the ball in one direction.

Always recover centrally (toward the penalty spot).

Always find a free player and mark-up.

Communicate to your teammates who you are marking.

Offensive Fundamentals of Soccer

Keep it simple.

Have vision of the entire field.

Play the way you're facing.

Play the ball back when options are limited or dangerous and switch play.
Always look around before collecting a pass so you know what you're going to do with the ball
before you get it.

Have a first time pass in mind before collecting the ball.

Be calm with the ball.

Always be in position to support teammates.

Ask for the ball.

Give options to player with the ball (check in and check out asking for the ball).

Keep your elbows up and use your body to protect and shield the ball.

Take on players in offensive third of the field.

Dribble toward the defender until he leaves his mark and then pass or beat him.

Take shots if you're open.

Key Soccer Training Tips

Get lots of touches on the ball.

Small sided games help develop creativity and skill (keep the training area small so players have less
time on the ball and therefore must make quick decisions since they're always under pressure).

There is perhaps no other better practice game for any level of player than 'piggy in the middle' - it's
just all about keeping the ball away from defenders.

Don't hit dead balls unless you're practicing free kicks. (Have players pass the ball into players
before they shoot or cross; this way players must control the ball and then shoot or cross, which is
more game realistic).

Set aside a time where players have the freedom to try new things and take more risks.

Get your players to play one touch soccer for a period of time (Even if the players don't have the
skill level yet, get them exposed to how hard it is and how useful it is when you can pull it off).

The ball never gets tired and always moves faster than any player can.

Extras

What is one soccer skill you can do that others can't. Can you cross the ball particularly well. Can
you take players on with a change of pace. Develop a soccer skill that others can't do as well as you
can. Specialize and focus on perfecting that one skill that separates you from other soccer players.
This way the coach will say, we have to have this player on our team because he or she is a superb
crosser of the ball, header, tackler, dribbler, passer....and so on.

Stretch out before and after training. A light jog and some stretching prior to playing and then a
cool down afterwards. Get the key muscle groups when stretching, the hamstrings, quads, calfs, and
groin muscles are the most important.

To avoid injury, it's important to use proper equipment from day one of soccer practice. Sweats,
cleats, shin guards, socks, and the proper sized ball can make a huge difference in your team's
success. Make sure you have the right sized shoe and take care of your feet.
Game-Like Soccer Patterns

While you cant predict the twists and turns that every soccer game brings, the team can and should
run through patterns of play at a slow pace to start and then eventually at a game like pace to
simulate live playing conditions.

Essentially, its like setting up a dress rehearsalexcept that instead of wearing the team uniforms,
you wear the mentality and the effort you hope to create during the actual game as you walk
through a series of passing movements.

The idea with soccer practice patterns is to walk through the runs and movements all the players, at
each position on the soccer field, will experience during a game. After you've walked through the
passes and movements you pick up the pace to a jog, and then at a real game like pace. After that,
you can add in passive defenders and eventually just go right into a full field scrimmage.

Walk through all the combinations in soccer, from give and goes, to dribble exchanges, to overlaps,
to long switches, to the third man running through the middle, dummy plays (let the ball run through
to the player behind), angled runs behind the defense, and so on. Walk through them until they are
perfect and do them at a faster pace and slowly add in defenders.

Do this all as a team and on a full sized field, making each pass crisp and sharp, as if you're under
pressure by an opposing team. This means each players' first touch must be sharp and all the passes
played to the correct foot, away from an imaginary defender.

Up, Back, Through

Run through passing plays that are common in the game. For example, have a defender, who is
positioned on the right side, play a forty yard ball towards the top of the box. There, a forward is
checking back to receive the ball with his foot, thigh or chest. This run back by the forward can be
just a five yard run, dragging the imaginary defender towards the goal, away from where they want
to receive the ball, and creating the space they want to check into and receive the ball.

The forward then lays the ball back to a center midfielder, who plays the ball down the line to the
wide midfielder, who crosses the ball into the box. The central midfielder and the forward make near
and far post runs, and the wide midfielder picks one of them out with a cross.
 This is a very common pattern that's seen in games over and over in a again. The ball is played up to
the forward and then back to the midfield and through to a player, in this case a wide midfielder,
who's making a run down the line to cross the ball.

Create Soccer Patterns

Next, develop and create your own patterns. For instance, a defender plays the ball into the
midfielder, who plays it back to him or her and then serves the ball into the forward. The forward
lays the ball back to the midfielder, who then plays the ball to the defender who has made a run
down the line.

Then the defender crosses the ball (picking out a player with the cross). Vary the passes, make all the
passes in the air, keep all passes one touch, add in a cross-over exchange (where a player dribbles at
a teammate and then exchanges the ball), and or make it so all passes are played with the players'
weaker foot.

Again, make sure the passes are sharp and play them away from where a defender would be.

Slowly add more players and increase the number of passes that are made before a cross or a shot is
taken on goal. Have a forward or wide midfielder overlap the defender and serve the ball in for a
cross; have the midfielder begin the play with a pass to the defender who then plays it to the forward
and back to the midfielder. Have the ball played down the line to the defender, who instead of
playing in a cross lays the ball back to a midfielder who switches the ball back to the central defender
who plays the ball to the oustide midfielder on the other side of the field.

Put in Rules

Put in a rule that there must be one switch of the field beore they can go towards goal. Tell the
players that there must be twenty passes before a cross or shot can be taken. Or, tell the players
must have one dribble exchange in the pattern before they can go to goal.

Each set of pattern might contain the types of passes listed below. Put in restrictions or rules where
these plays must be included in a pattern of play before the players can score:

Long diagonal ball

Driven ball

Wall pass

Overlap

Dribble exchange

Chip or lofted ball over the top

Sprint with the ball

One touch only

Two touch only

Always try to finish with a shot on goal after running through a few patterns. Also, make sure every
player or position gets a touch on the ball before a shot or cross is taken.

Walk Through Scenarios

When working on passing movements and patterns, it's a good idea to setup certain scenarios and
think about what you would do as in a team in those situations. For example, if you have a throw-in
near the attacking third of the field or when your keeper has the ball on a goal kick or the ball is in
their hands, what will you, in your position do. Think about what ways players would get open to
receive the ball, and what kinds of runs would be made off the ball. Walk through these scenarios.

Then, take a look at passing plays when the ball is on the foot of the attacking midfielder or the
center back. Who are the players making the runs into the attacking third and what players are
offering support. Ideally, what do you want to have happen? Obviously you want to keep possesion
and try create a goal scoring chance, so what types of runs or passes will be made.

Different Styles of Play

When running through patterns work on different styles of play, everything from direct play, where
you try to pick out your forward with a long ball and win the knock down, to slowing the game down,
switching the ball from side to side and trying to keep possession, if you have a lead.
It's helpful to map things out with your team, put each player in their position and figure out where
they will make a run or what they are responsible for, when you're playing a different style of play or
adjusting to what the other team might be doing.

Setup Grids

Sometimes it's helpful to create grids on the field with a set of cones marking off the zone where the
forward, midfielder, and defenders will operate - just rough area marked off with cones.

These don't have to be hard and fast grids, as the players can come out of their area to receive a
pass or control the ball, but it gives players a good idea of where they most likely will spend most of
their time on the pitch. And, it let's other players know where they will be on the field.

Intensity

Make the patterns game-like by playing the ball with pace and making all of your touches sharp, as if
you are under pressure. Start out walking through these patterns and then build up to a jog and
finally go to full speed as your team becomes accustomed to the runs (patterns). When you are
beginning to run through the patterns at a faster pace, make sure the angles of the passes are sharp
and the runs are at a game-like pace.

All the players should try to check back to the ball as if they have a defender on them, and make
angled runs back to the ball. These runs don't have to be long - even just two or three yards (quick
cuts). Again, the overall idea is to concentrate and make these patterns game-like, turning them
almost into set plays, and to the point where your team could run through them in their sleep.

Once the players are confident with the movements and the passes, add in passive defenders who
cut out weak passes and put a little pressure on the players as they check back to receive the ball and
make runs.

Rotate Positions
 As you move through each pattern or play, say after you've run through the patterns a number of
times, each player should rotate into a new position. The forward becomes the defender, the
midfielder becomes the forward, and the defender becomes the midfielder. This way each player
gets a chance to experience playing a new position.

Next: Learn more about passing and crossing at these pages:

The Stock Ball

Passing Skills

Crossing the Ball

Two Touch Soccer

Play the Way You're Facing

Passing Standards

The Stock Ball

Do you think you have to cross the ball before you get to the endline? Do you think you have to
always cross the ball in the air? No, of course not.

Why not go for the nearly unstoppable stock ball, which is when you cut the ball back to a player
running into the box on the ground.

This pass by Manchester United's Ryan Giggs in their Champions League match versus Chelsea is an
example of stock ball, as he cuts the ball back to Wayne Rooney for a first time shot. The concept of
the stock ball is to remove everyone else from the picture so to speak, so all the attacker has to do is
pass the ball into the back of the net.
Sure, it's hard to beat players and get to the endline, but if you can get there, you're more likely to
score. For this play youre trying to lay the ball back to a teammate who is ready for a first time shot
and making a run into the box.

As a team you can try to seek this kind of situation out. Get the ball wide to a midfielder, someone
who can take the defender on and cut the ball back across the goal mouth. If you can cut the ball
back across the goal, it makes it difficult for both the goalkeeper and the defense to keep their eyes
on the ball and the player theyre marking.

Try to make the keeper and the defenders have to close you down. When they do, release the ball to
an open player in the middle or at the far post.

Often, if the player trying to lay the ball back across the goal is marked well and it's tough to beat the
player on the dribble. So if they can't get the ball across the goal mouth they can at least win a corner
kick, since the ball will come off the defender and over the goal line if the ball gets blocked. Better
yet, if they get tackled they might be able to win a penalty kick.

And, the player trying to cross the ball on the ground (the stock ball) can send the ball in early if the
player is open, there's no set rule of course, you're just trying to get the ball to the player who is best
chance of scoring.

There are numerous other ways to set this play up. For instance, a ball played down the line to a
forward, who has made a diagonal run, so they can then turn and cut the ball back to a teammate
across the goal mouth. This could be a quick early pass across the goal mouth before the defense has
time to set and prepare for the play.

The ideal stock ball though is where the player has the ball on the goal line and is looking across the
goal area for someone to cut the ball back to. Again, they're making the keeper and the defenders
commit to them by dribbling the ball along the endline. Once the keeper or the defender commits
they release the ball on the ground to a teammate making a run into the box.

As a rule, if you can beat your defender down the line then go for it - but if you can bend the ball
around the defender or feint and get enough space to get the cross in, then go for that. Again,
there's no hard and fast rule, the idea with the stock ball is just to get the ball to a player on the
ground so they can score.
The stock ball is perhaps a play that teams can use towards the end of a game or after they've sent in
a few early crosses or cut the ball in and taken shots already. It's a surprise play, where you drive
right at the goal on the dribble and look to make the goalkeeper commit, and that's when you lay the
ball back to a teammate.

When setting up for the stock ball play, know where your forwards are, so you can time the pass and
have the ball meet them at the right moment and pace, as they move towards the goal and haven't
stop their run yet: you want to hit them in stride with the cross so they don't have to stop. And it's
easier to strike a ball when you running to it rather than waiting for it and less likely to get
intercepted. Pick the the player out with your pass so they can first time the ball.

Although very hard to do, the stock ball is an ideal play that often leads to an assured goal. See if
your team can score with the stock ball in your next game.

Passing the Test - Soccer Passing Skills

Having learned the importance of strategy in soccer, one of the most critical skills to develop if you
want to implement any type of soccer strategyas well as the backbone of socceris passing the
ball. Let's learn how to be a good passer in soccer.

Just look at this incredible pass by David Beckham when he played for Real Madrid, it's a thing of
beauty. In the sections below, we'll learn how to pass the soccer ball just like that.

Yes, dribbling the ball is an amazing skill and beautiful to watch, especially when Messi or
Ronaldinho are on the ball, but there's not much better than seeing a team string six or eight passes
together and then score a goal. Everything happens so fast the opposing team can't really do
anything about it. A quick combination of passes and the ball is in the back of the net.
Passing the ball is really what soccer is all about. As the say, the ball never tires, just let the soccer
ball do the work by passing it to the open player. Pass and move is a mantra that you'll hear from
every soccer coach in the world on nearly every level.

Soccer Passing

Passing the ball in soccer allows your team to keep possession of the ball and find holes in the
opposing teams defense. It's the Tiki Taka style of play. This is what Barcelona does 70% of the
match sometimes, just keep the ball from the opposing team. And at times, it seems like a big game
of keep away for them or piggy in the middle.

How does Barcelona do this? Well, for one, they have incredible players with exceptional skill on the
ball, but they also keep the ball moving and spread the defense with one and two touch passes. And
they switch the ball from one side of the field to the other, searching for holes and spaces. They play
the ball in and out and constanly move off the ball so they're always someone offering support. It's
all about quick short passes and then a killer pass to open up the game.

But first you have to understand the fundamentals of passing the ball and learn the right technique.
As a player, if you want to pass like Andrea Pirlo and David Beckham you'll have to master the ability
to pass the ball with pace and accuracy. How? This means hours and hours of practice, striking the
ball with every part of your foot. Find a wall and just begin hitting the ball against it with the inside,
outside, and instep of your foot. Keep your ankle locked and strike through the center of the soccer
ball with pace. Get your body behind the ball and keep your feet on the ground with a strong sense
of balance - always ready to receive the ball and make a return pass.

Once you've mastered those fundamentals of passing, you can strive to hit passes like this one by
Pirlo. Notice how the player doesn't have to wait for the ball. Pirlo leads him towards the goal.

To make a good pass in soccer , strike the ball with pace so that your teammate doesn't have to wait
on the ball. A firm pass is more likely to arrive at its destination. If you play a soft pass this means you
want your teammate to come back to the ball or you might be setting them up for a cross or shot.
But if the pass is too soft you could be setting them up for a hospital ball - meaning they're bound to
get injured trying to win the ball from the defender who's closing down the space.
In terms of teamwork, the player who is the intended target of your pass must go to the ball to
receive it - they can't wait for it. At the same time though, make your teammate who's making the
pass look good by digging out a bad pass and keeping possession for your team. This might require
you to use your body to block the defender and shield the ball. But the passer has to know where to
play the ball so the defender can't get it.

And keep your passing game simple, if a defender is closing you down from behind, play the ball back
to the person who passed you the ball. This is called playing the way you're facing. This way you can
break free from your defender to receive the ball again or the passer might switch the point of
attack, where there's more space to work with.

As a team, to develop the ablity to pass the ball quickly, train in game-like situations, with the right
kind of intensity and pressure. Anybody can pass the ball or keep the ball when they aren't under
pressure, but only the good players can do it when they're surrounded by defenders.

In training, recreate game-like conditions by making the areas you are playing in small so that there is
constant pressure on those with the ball. Then, when you are getting the right intensity, open the
game up and play in a larger area. For example, start with 8 versus 8 in the goal box and then open
up and play in the whole half of the field once the intensity matches that of a real game. And get
your players to play one and two touch soccer, players should be thinking about a clean first touch of
the ball and moving off the ball to support each other.

In order to become a great passer, youre also going to need to become familiar with the different
kinds of passes, and the various ways in which they are used in soccer....

Put Your Best Foot Forward

The way in which you pass the soccer ball depends on several things, such as:

Where the ball is going - is intended target of the pass close or far

What do you want the player to do when the ball gets there - this gets back to the pace of the pass

Whos in the way - where it the defender

What part of the foot you use

The first three factors depend on your own strategy and knowledge of the game, but the last one
depends solely on technique:

Inside of the Foot: This is the most useful part of the foot to use when passing the ball. Its the part of
your foot with the most surface area, thus giving you the most control and accuracy. Turn your hips
to the side you're kicking the ball with and strike through the center of the ball.

Inside Edge of the Foot: This is the same as the above but with the upper portion of your foot to
bend the ball, as in when you wrap your foot around the ball so it curves into your teammates feet
or into an area, as with a cross. Beckham is a master at bending the ball in for a cross from any area
on the field.

Outside of the Foot: This kind of pass is used when you want to bend the ball into a teammate or into
an area. Often your body is in a position where you can't make a simple pass with the inside of the
foot. If this is the case, try to strike through the ball with the outside of your foot. Outside of the foot
is also sometimes used to flick the ball or make a surprise pass. Rather than having to turn the body
to hit the ball with the inside of the foot.

Instep or Upper Area of the Foot: This is for driving the ball into a teammate. In this situation, when
you are picking a player out, you don't need to follow through. Instead, strike the ball sharply and
stop your follow through just after hitting it so the ball flys directly into the player at pace. This is
much different than a instep shot, where you follow through and land on your shooting foot.

Upper Area of the Foot: This is used to drive the ball into a forward or make a long cross field pass
but you want the ball to land with a bit of back spin but not as much as when you chip the ball. To hit
a driven ball you don't follow through like in a shot but stop your swing once you connect with the
ball.

Upper Area/Instep of the Foot : Chipping the soccer ball is similar to the instep drive but don't use as
much force when kicking the ball. This requires a soft touch as you're trying to get more lift on the
ball and create back spin so the ball dies in the area you're aiming at.

By fine-tuning your skills as a passer, you can significantly increase your teams chances of success.
It's really impossible to dribble through an opposing team, you'll need to make a least a few passes to
score. Your victory wont be complete, however, unless you and your teammates learn to work
together and to control the

Crossing Technique: How to Cross a Soccer Ball

Gettty Images

Let's learn how to cross the soccer ball. Crossing the soccer ball is about picking out a player in the
goal box so they can score. Usually, the cross will come from a wide area on the soccer field. As when
David Beckham gets the ball out wide, has a little bit of space and time, and whips the ball into the
box - trying to pick out a player making a run.

Sure, there are times when you'll need to just get the ball in the box, serve it in to a specific spot
where a teammate should be, but it's best to get your head up prior to crossing the ball and cross the
ball to a specific player making a run - pick someone out with your cross.

Here are the key steps to crossing the ball in soccer:

Step 1) Push the ball a little ahead of you at an angle so you avoid the defender and give yourself
enough space to cross the ball without the defender being able to block the cross.

Step 2) Look up so you can pick someone out with your cross.

Step 3) Plant your standing foot right next to the ball.

Step 4) Turn your hips at an angle to the ball.

Step 5) Wrap your foot around the ball to bend it with the inside area of your foot.
Step 6) Strike the ball with pace, although not necessarily like a shot, take just a little pace off the
ball, but hit the ball with enough power so you whip the ball into the player you're picking out with
the cross.

Step 7) Cross the ball from any part of the field in the attacking third, you don't have to get to the
endline all the time to cross the ball.

Crossing in soccer is a lot like taking a free kick, you want enough power to make it on goal but
enough touch and skill to bend the ball around the wall or to get over the wall. With crossing, you're
trying to place the soccer ball on a platter for the player to score. So all they have to do is get a foot
or head on the ball and re-direct the ball into the goal.

A lofted ball or chip has a time and a place, like if you're chipping the ball over the defense for a
breakaway, but for most crosses it's much easier for the keeper to get to these balls and harder for a
player to score if the ball is hit softly in the air. If the ball is whipped in at pace, all the player has to
do is redirect the ball into the goal. All the forward has to do is get a touch on the ball to get it past
the keeper.

The majority of the time, when crossing the ball, you'll use the upper area of the inside of your foot
to hit a cross. This way you can wrap your foot around the ball and bend the ball into your intended
target. If the ball is coming into the player rather than going away it's much easier for them to score -
the ball is coming into their path rather than away.

But there are times when you'll want to cross the ball with the outside of your foot or even drive the
ball in with your instep across the goal mouth. And it's always good to surprise the defense and the
goalkeeper. Remember Maicon's goal, everyone thought the Brazilian defender was going to cross
the ball, but when he saw the keeper cheating a lilttle bit out of the goal, anticipating the cross,
Maicon bent the ball directly into the net with the outside of his foot.

What part of the foot you use when crossing the soccer ball depends upon what you're trying to do
and where the defender is positioned and how much time you have. If you have to kick the ball
across the goal line with your toe at the last minute to get the ball to a player than that's wide open
then what's you do. Just do what works in that situation. But overall, you're want to wrap your foot
around the ball with the inside area of your foot.
Take a look at Beckham whip in this cross when he played for Real Madrid that results in a goal by
Ronaldo:

Players you should watch to learn how to cross the ball better? Here's a short list of some of the best
crossers of the ball in the world. These are the experts at crossing the ball:

Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspurs)

Landon Donovan (LA Galaxy)

Jesus Navas (Sevilla)

David Beckham (LA Galaxy)

Luis Figo (Real Madrid)

Ryan Giggs (Manchester United)

More on Crossing: Get the Ball in the Box

As a winger or wide midfielder, it is important to get the ball in the goal box. That means serving the
ball across the goal mouth. Again, whip the ball in at pace. This makes it easier for the targeted
player to redirect the ball on goal and also helps avoid getting the ball cut out or blocked by a
defender.

Get accustomed to crossing the ball when you have the opportunity. You don't always have to beat
the defender before you cross the ball. The defender who is marking you will begin to think you are
going to cross the ball into the box every time you get it. Thats when you take the player on and go
down the line to cut the ball back or cut inside and take a shot yourself. Learn how to play give and
goes to get past a defender and down the line. Figure out ways to get just enough time to set
yourself up to cross the ball.

But you don't need to reach the end line to cross the ball. Really, you can cross the ball from any
point over the half line, as long as you are trying to pick out someone directly or if you are leading a
player with a cross or long pass - as that player makes a run towards goal, it doesn't matter where
you're at on the field. There's no rule saying you have to cross the ball from this part of the field. If a
player is open and making a good run, get the ball to them with a cross.

There's a certain art to crossing the soccer ball, just like taking a free kick. It takes practice and more
practice to perfect this skill. When it's done right, when the ball comes in at speed right to a player's
feet, it's a thing of beauty.

Reminder: Cross the ball when defenders are running back facing their own goal, not turned with
their back to their goal. this is when it's easy to clear the ball. In other words, cross the ball when
defenders aren't set and ready - cross it when they're rushing back to try to get in position to win or
clear the ball. Cross the ball early, whip the ball in behind the defenders if you can.

And so often, when you cross the ball early, this is when own goals occur. When defenders are
rushing back trying to block or clear the ball but miss hit the ball when they're facing their own goal
and it goes in. Plus, an early cross will surprise not just the defenders but the goalkeeper.

Teaching Two Touch Soccer

As a soccer coach, you dont want your players to become afraid of taking players on or holding on to
the ball when doing a drill where you say they can only use one or two touches. Sometimes this is
drilled into young soccer player's heads too much, playing with two touches, and they make poor
decisions in game situations when theyre thinking they must play two touch soccer.

There are times when it's good to hold on to and shield the ball or take a few more touches, you
don't want your players to become afraid to do this with strict rules during practice. However, you do
want your players to make the game simple and play one and two touch soccer - let the ball do the
work. So how do you teach and coach this?

Keys to playing two touch soccer:

First touch of the player - control the soccer ball away from your body so your next pass is easy to
make

Movement off the ball to support the play - can't play two touch soccer without two or three
players near the ball in support

Using your body to shield and protect the ball - block the defender from the ball so you can make
the next pass

Having fun and working as a team to keep and move the ball quickly - if the ball is lost it's not the
individual's fault but usually the team's, as they didn't move quickly enough to give the player an
option

Players should have the freedom to play creatively. Don't drill that out of them so to speak with rule
driven practices. Try to balance this out and show them when and where it's best to use more than
two touches or when it's smart to shield the ball and try to win a foul or get the defender to knock
the ball out of bounds.

Sometimes you can spin away or turn on a player in one touch, but then other times you need a few
more touches on the ball. Players should have the freedom to try different things - especially at a
young age. If they do something positive and then take a few more touches, there's obviously
nothing wrong with that. Of course, one and two touch soccer is the ideal, as in the tiki taka style of
Barcelona. So you want your players to learn the two touch concept, but not lose their creativity or
become fearful about making a mistake. Keep the one and two touch training sessions fun and make
a group effort to keep the ball for a record number of times with just one and two touch play.

Playing smart soccer is about doing things fast, and two touch soccer accomplishes that, but there
are always exceptions. Really, it's about using the space around you and reading the play. It's playing
fast mentally, knowing what you want to do with the ball before it comes to you.

But again, one thing you don't want your players to develop is the fear of trying new things and
taking players on. There is nothing like the ability to take players on. It's a skill that separates the
good teams from the great ones. All the great teams have a few players who can turn the game on
it's head and change the outcome of the game by a few cuts or dribbles - think Messi, Gareth Bale, or
Cristiano Ronaldo.
The art of teaching one and two touch soccer is centered in a players fundamentals and how they
control the ball. Get your players to play the ball out in front of their feet when they control it. That's
the key. Their first touch of the ball. They don't want to control it too close to their bodies or
underneath themselves. They should control the ball away from the pressure but a few feet away
from themselves so they can make their next move more easily. If the ball is 'out of their feet', it's
easier to make the next pass, turn, or cutting movement. It's easier to play two touch soccer.

Beyond two touch soccer is of course one touch soccer. Again, it's about stressing the idea to try
things, and not make these hard and fast rules. Its difficult at times but getting your players to play
one touch soccer will really get them thinking about where and how they want to play the ball. One
touch soccer forces your players to think before they get the ball and anticipate where they have to
move to receive the ball. If anything, one and two touch soccer teaches players how to move without
the ball and support their teammates. You can't play one touch unless everyone is moving to help
one another out and offer support.

But before they can do all of this they have to have exquisite touch and control how do you get
that, by spending time with the ball, whether with other teammates or knocking the ball against a
wall with both feet.

Also, players need to learn how to use their bodies to protect the ball when they receive it so a
defender cant get it this entails having the ability to play with both feet. More often than not, a
player will lose the ball because he or she is trying to play the ball with their favored foot and their
body isnt shielding the ball when they're trying to do this. If youre dribbling up the left side of the
field and theres a defender on you, then youll need to use your left foot to dribble the ball. This way
your body is between the defender and the ball. If the defender tries to win the ball it will go out for
a throw-in and your team will still have possession.

Here's an excellent example of one touch soccer that results in a goal. This is England versus the
United States in a friendly in 2008. The first goal is a Terry header off a Beckham cross, but the
second goal is a classy goal that's all about keeping the ball moving with quick one and two touch
passing. The eleventh pass results in a Steven Gerrard goal. The United States made England look like
Brazil in this play. Take a look.
Play the Way You're Facing

If theres one thing a soccer player can do to simplify their game and make the game easier, its by
playing the way youre facing.

What does this mean? This means when you are under pressure from behind dont try to turn or play
a difficult pass but just play the ball back where it came from as in the way you are facing. Keep the
game simple.

For example, if you are checking back to receive the soccer ball you should play it back to a
teammate and not try to turn and beat a defender whos marking you tightly. But you can do this
anywhere on the field.

If a midfielder receives the ball from another midfielder they can just play the ball back to someone
in their field of vision. In most cases theres no need to make the game more complex. If you're
under pressure play the ball back and then move into a new space where you have more time on the
ball. Play the ball and then get it back where you have more time and space.

Playing the way youre facing is also a good idea when you are trying to take a shot off a corner kick
or a cross. Rather than trying to redirect the ball to the far corner just keep it simple and head or
volley the ball back towards the player you received the ball from. Of course, here youre not actually
playing the ball back to the player who sent in the corner kick or cross but just directing it in the
same direction where it came from. So, if you are running towards the near post to head the ball off
a corner you head it right into the near post send the ball right back where it came from.

The concept of "play the way youre facing" is essentially: give it and get it. If you watch players like
Xavi and Iniesta of Spain and Barcelona they keep the game very simple. If they receive the ball they
might just play it right back to the player they received it from and then get it back again when they
are open a few yards away. This way they have a moment to look around and see the field when they
receive the ball the second time.

Playing the way youre facing is most common with forwards and midfielders, but defenders can do
this too. For instance, if a defender receives a pass from the last man back, or even the goalkeeper,
they often just play the way theyre facing and lay the ball right back to the keeper or to the defender
who played them the ball. Theres no sense in trying to turn and beat the player whos closing them
down when theyre in their own defensive third. Its too risky. Just play the ball back so that player
can clear it away if needed.

What's more, by playing the way you're facing your team can move the ball much more quickly via
one and two touch passes. If players are always trying to turn or beat another player the game will
slow down. They will end up holding on to the ball too long or losing it.

But to play soccer this way, simple and with one and two touch passes, players have to
communicate. Players have to let their teammates know they are under pressure or if they have time
and can turn. Because it is of course ideal and good if a player can turn and beat another player, but
there's just a right time and place for this. When a player makes a pass they should include a
message with that pass, whether the player has time, can turn, or if they should play the ball back.

Most goals are scored through a series of three or four one and two touch passes. The ball is layed
off by a forward, the midfielder plays the ball through to a winger, a cross is served in, and the
forward hammers the ball home - back to where it came from or the way he is facing.

Another crucial aspect of playing the way you're facing is movement off the ball. If one player passes
the way they're facing, they need players around them to make runs and move off the ball. When the
forward lays the ball back to a midfielder, they need the winger to make that run down the line.

Next time you watch a La Liga, Serie A, or English Premier League soccer game, notice how many
times players just keep the game simple and play the ball in the direction they are facing. They lay
the ball off and then make a run. They get the ball and then give it right back. It's all about passing
and moving - playing the way you're facing.

Soccer Passing Standards

Theres an endless variety of soccer passing patterns and soccer drills that can help your team
expand and hone its passing vocabulary. These listed below, however, are the most important
passing blueprints that you and your soccer should be familiar with.
If you watch any top level soccer game, whether it's the English Premier League, the Spanish La Liga,
or the Italian Serie A, you'll see these same passing movements - the overlap, the give and go, and
short short long passes. These runs and passing patterns are the foundation of good one and two
touch soccer that the best teams in the world play.

Xavi of Barcelona

Reuters

And if you watch a player like Xavi of Barcelona, you'll see a soccer player who rarely if ever loses the
ball. He's a master of one and two touch soccer, from the give and go to the killer through ball that
puts his teammate one on one with the keeper. What's key is Xavi knows where his teammates are
before he gets the ball at this feet.

Give and Go or Wall Pass

Make a pass at an angle to a teammate and he or she plays the ball back to you after you have made
a run behind the defender.

The key here is suckering in the defender. Let him or her get just close enough to you so they think
they have a chance of getting the ball. Once they are close to you and the angle is right, make the
pass and break into the open space behind the defender.

It is important for the person making the pass back (the wall) to put the right weight on the ball so
the person initiating the give and go can run on to the ball and not have to break stride. This means
playing the ball to the right open space and at the right pace.

There are numerous variations of the wall pass and this is the foundation for organizing an offensive
support system for your team. You can play a give and go to create a scoring chance or to relieve
pressure from a defender so you have time to make a decisive pass. You dont necessarily have to get
behind the defender in order to achieve these objectives.

Short Short Long

Make two short passes in quick succession and then a long pass to spread the defense or escape
pressure. In a way, you're inviting the defense in to close you down, and once they get tight you
release the ball long.

Try two small give and goes and then a long pass as the defense closes in on you. In soccer, your
team will generally have time and space to make two, three, or maybe four passes in a small area.
Then you'll need to escape pressure, so the next pass should be a switch or a longer pass that breaks
from the pressure entirely.

A typical play would be a few exchanges on the left with the forward and one of the midfielders and
then a switch to an open midfielder or defender on the right side of the field. This is ideal of course,
many times you'll see top players forced to play back to a defender or even the keeper when they are
closed down after a few short passes.

Third Man Running

Play a ball to someone, knowing that there is another teammate reading the play and running to
receive this pass from the player you just played the ball to. For instance, the defender plays a driven
ball into the forwards feet because he or she sees their midfielder making a run towards the
forward. Another example could be where the center midfielder plays the ball out wide to the winger
or outside midfielder and the defender makes an overlapping run. The center midfielder has seen
that the defender is preparing to overlap the outside midfielder and that is why he or she has made
the pass.

The Overlap

An overlap is when the player with the ball plays it to his teammate and then makes a run around
that player. The most common type of overlap is when the outside midfielder cuts into the middle
with the ball and the outside defender makes a run down the line. A simpler run would be having a
center midfielder make a pass to a winger and then run around him or her to receive the ball down
the line. A good method for a player to follow is to play and follow your pace (pass and move). You
don't have to follow this directive exactly but this is a good way to move without the ball.

Like the give and go, this is a stock or fundamental play in soccer, with a number of variations.
The Exchange

For the most part, the exchange is done on the dribble. One player dribbles towards a teammate and
the ball is exchanged. The player dribbles at the player with the ball on their left foot and then a
teammate makes a run towards them to take the ball with their right foot. The position of the ball on
the particular foot is crucial, so the defender can't win the ball - the attacking players body is
screening the ball from the defender.

So this is more often than not a dribbling exchange but we've put in the passing section because it's
so common and used so much in the game. For instance, a player might just shout leave it, and they
then take the ball off their teammate's foot. Or, they might be facing up field when their teammate is
facing towards their own goal, so they can see the field better and call the player off the ball.
However, this can get tricky, the key is communication, the player must let the player know, shout
leave it or I got it clearly so the player knows they have a pass or shot in plain sight.

Checking Out

Checking out is when you move from a certain position or area to make space for a teammate - open
up an area so a teammate can make a run into the space you've just left. An example would be a
wide midfielder making a run into the middle, checking out of the space they were just in, because
he or she sees the defender is moving up into attack and they would just be in the way.

The idea of checking out also refers to when you've check back to receive the ball but area marked
tightly and your teammate, smartly, doesn't want to play the ball to you, so you check out of the
space and let someone else move into that space. Once you check out you might just be able to
check right back into the space. An easy example would be checking back to receive the ball on a
throw in. You might be marked tightly for one minute but as soon as you check out and away, you
can check back into the ball. In a sense, checking out just means moving out of a space to lose a
defender or open the space up for a teammate.

Dont Pass Out

The ball will never get tired. So, make the ball do the work by spreading it around the field. Always
keep the other team chasing the ball and expending energy. If you hold on to the ball too long the
other team will win it.
Let's look at an example scenario that might develop in a game. In this case, the rule is get the ball to
your play maker.

A flow of the game might look like this: The play maker plays the ball into the forwards feet, gets
the ball back, swings it to the defender on the left side, gets it back again, plays into the forward
again, gets it back and then plays it in behind the defense to an on rushing winger who crosses the
ball into the player making near and far post runs in the box. This is all in an amoeba-like progression
up the field. Trying to move the ball forward and find the open spaces. Drawing the defense to you
and then playing it in behind them. Of course, ideally there could be one or two passes and you're
running straight at goal.

But the idea is that soccer is made up of a series of passing patterns. Sometimes these are refered to
as triangles or diamonds. These represent the support a player has around them, someone to pass to
on either side and then someone who's asking for the ball infront of them and then behind them.

Passing Tactics

There are many different styles to play and yours depends upon your team makeup and the current
score of the game. In general, vary your game. If you just won the ball back after fighting for a while
to get it, dont make a risky pass. Instead just keep possession of the ball.

Try to get the ball to your play maker and allow the team ot possess the ball and regain their energy
and feel for the ball. However, if you see an opening, like someone making a great run towards goal,
play the ball through. You can accomplish this by getting the ball to your play makers feet. Youd
rather have them make those decisions and that type of pass, in most case, rather than, say, an
outside back. So, when a defender wins it, he or she should be looking to get the ball to the play
makersthe central midfielders' feet.

Often, at the start of the game, both teams are playing with great energy, so you might need to just
clear your lines and send the ball long out of the back. Then, as your team gets more comfortable,
you can try to build out of the back. Or, you might want to make a statement when the game starts,
so you send the ball long to your winger who is breaking down the line, and then try to close down
the other team right from the kickoff. This puts them on their heels and gets your team right into the
game and in their half of the field.
The important thing is to mix things up and keep your opponents guessing. You can accomplish this
by making quick, crisp passes, plaing one and two touch soccer, and playing together, as a team, with
everyone asking and wanting the ball - offering their support. You and your team will be well on the
way to setting up that game-winning goal if you follow this advice.

The Killer Pass

Soccer in the end is all about scoring goals. And to score you need to have that one killer pass that
puts a player through on goal. This is the through ball that's sent over a defenders head or that long
ball on the ground just behind the defender.

The killer pass doesn't just happen though. It requires two players to be on the same page, one to
make the run and one to make the pass. There are really three keys to the killer pass: the
opportunity, the right moment, and the right weight of the pass.

But there's something else, players have to anticipate the play. The player has to take the chance by
making that run behind the defender without being offside. The midfielder, has to have their head up
and see the run being made. And then the pass, the killer pass, at just the right pace, has to be made
at just the right time. As a player, always be on the lookout for that angled pass that can cut through
the defense.

The Brazilian midfielder Kaka, who now plays at Real Madrid, is, like Xavi, also a master of the killer
pass. See this video of Kaka showing you how to make a killer pass.
A Few Quick Soccer Training Tips

Below are some useful soccer training tips for players who want to play at the highest level, from
how to communicate on the soccer field to how to shield the ball to how to surprise the opposing
team with a blind pass.

If you want to become a better soccer player then follow these soccer tips below. And it doesn't
matter if you're a beginner or an advanced player, these useful soccer tips apply to players of all
levels.

Carlos Tevez

Getty Images

Communicate

When you move into the professional soccer level it becomes even more important to communicate
on the field. Simple directions or alerts, such as 'man on' and 'turn' or 'you have time', make playing
the game so much easier and become more important as the game speeds up.

Communication is also about asking for the ball all the time. Yes, you'll need to ask for the ball - tell
your teammates you want it. Demand the ball even. And it really doesn't matter what position you
play, whether you're a right back or a forward, you should always want the soccer ball. The idea is
you want to help and offer support and make things happen. Otherwise, why are you out there
playing.

At the same time though, once you get the ball, give it to the player who is in the best position to
create something. Give it to the player who can do the most damage to the other team with the ball.
Often on a team there are two or three players, or maybe one, who you always want to have the ball
at their feet. These are the play makers, when they are open, pass them them ball and then make a
run to get the ball back. Watch the best teams in the world, there's always two or three players who
always get the ball at their feet and run the show.

Players like Messi and Xavi at Barcelona. Both are play makers and combine cleverly with Dani Alves
on the right side. Alves acts as support player, like a wall that Messi and Xavi can play off of and get
the ball back when they are open again. Alves of course is a unique player, as he's extremely skilled,
and can get down the line to cross the ball and into the attack. But players should work together and
share the ball, and Messi, Xavi, and Alves offer no better example of this.

Communicate through how you play the ball itself, if you play a hard ball into someone's feet that
tells the player they are under pressure. If you play a soft pass to somone that means you're trying to
draw the player back to the ball to open up space behind them. Overall, play crisp passes to your
teammates, if not, the ball will get cut out by the defense and it's easy to control a firm pass.

Play the Ball Quickly

The key though is to give the ball and get the ball - play the ball quickly in one and two touches. If
you hold on to the ball too long you will lose it. And even if you don't lose the ball, if you don't play
the ball quickly, you can kill an attack and allow the opposing team to get back on defense.

Also, this means you should be prepared to receive the soccer ball at all times, and of course want
the ball! This kind of energy, wanting to always be involved in the play, puts the other team that
much more on their heels. So play simple and smart soccer, give and get the ball and move it quickly.

Try to attack the space when you have the ball. See if you can draw a defender in, and then release
the ball just when they're about to close you down or win the ball. There's a certain flow to the game
of soccer when things are going well. Everyone is on the same page, fighting for one another and
sharing the ball. That's the type of soccer you want to play. This often comes from sharing and
moving the ball quickly with one and two touches passing.

Shielding the Soccer Ball

A simple and great exercise is to dribble in a small square and have an opponent try to take the ball
from you. Use your body to shield the ball from the defender. Always keep your body between the
ball and the defender. Tell your friend or the person who is acting as the defender to fight for the ball
with a game like intensity, pushing you and playing so hard they are almost fouling you. Add more
players into the game as you get more confident holding on to the ball and holding off the defender.
If the defender wins the ball you switch roles.
This game can eventually build into a possession game that focuses on shielding. Call out to stop play
now and again and whichever team doesn't have the ball has to do push-ups or a few sprints as
punishment.

When shielding the ball, and there's space, carry the ball into the open space - all the while shielding
the ball from the defender. Carry the ball with the inside of your foot, this is where you will get the
most control, kind of dragging the ball along as the defender pushes against you. Make sure to bend
your knees and have a strong sense about you that this person is not going to get the ball from you
no matter what. Then, try to work on cutting the ball back and forth. Carry the ball with the inside of
your foot for a few yards and then cut back with the outside of your foot and shield the ball with the
outside of your foot. As you get better, practice shielding the ball using all parts of both feet.

Shielding the soccer ball, protecting it with your body, is one of the most underrated skills in soccer.
As you get more comfortable, try shielding the ball for a few yards with the inside of your right foot
and playing it to your left and carrying it in the other direction. Next, use the sole of your foot to turn
or switch directions. Try to use all the different surfaces of your foot without letting the defender get
a touch on the ball. Chop and cut the ball back with the inside and outside of both feet. Keep the
defense honest by turning and taking the defender on from time to time. This way they know you're
actually trying to get past them and not just hold the ball.

Freeze the Defender

If you see a defender rushing to close you down and win the ball, throw in a fake to slow them down.
Before receiving the soccer ball, fake like youre going to make a long pass or about to take a shot
this will freeze the defender who is rushing towards you and give you more time. Simply pull your leg
back as if youre going to play the ball down the field, or, get more animated with it, and throw your
shoulders and whole body into selling the fake kick.

Either way, this simple move will freeze the defender who's rushing at you. Again, just before you
receive the ball (and control it), fake like youre going to shoot or make a pass by drawing your leg
back in the shooting or kicking motion to momentarily freeze the defender. This move will surprise
them a bit and slow them down so you have time to control the ball.

Switch Play
As a team keep the game flowing by ball swinging the ball from one side to the other to find the best
ratio of numbers and the most space. Release pressure by switching the ball to the other side of the
soccer field.

If you watch the best teams in the world, like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich or Manchester
United, they move the ball from one side of the pitch to the other looking for space and a numerical
advantage. You want to draw the other team to one side of the field and then quickly switch the ball
to the other side when they start to close you down.

Try playing the ball into the forwards feet, so the defense collapses into the center, and when the
forward lays the ball back, you can swing the ball out wide and into the corner to get a cross off.
There are a number of different ways to switch the ball, and open up the defense, but the key is to
keep the ball moving and play one and two touch soccer.

The Quick Switch - Blind Pass

Think about playing a pass or cross that will surprise the other team. Dribble to the right with your
right foot and then swing a pass to the left, sending almost a blind pass to the other side of the
soccer field. It's the opposite way if you use your left. Dribble to the left side of the field and swing a
ball back to the right side of the field.

The defender on the other side will not expect the pass. Hopefully you will catch the opposing team
sleeping. You are selling the idea that you're going to the side you're dribbling towards when in fact
you're intention is to swing the ball over to the opposite side. Teammates will adjust to the
expectation that a switch is coming.

Sometimes you can dribble a few times in the opposite direction you really want to play the ball - to
throw the defense off - then you swing the ball to the other side of the field. It doesn't have to be a
long switch, just a quick cut back to the other direction can create a goal scoring opportunity.

Of course, this is a pass that has to be done at the right time and the right part of the field. It might a
counter attack or when you have the ball in the attacking third.

Get the Cross In

As a rule almost, when you have the opportunity and are open, swing the ball in for a cross. Besides
finding your intended target with the cross, and them scoring, you never know what else could
happen. The ball could take a deflection and go in off the other team and into the goal or get flicked
on to a teammate who can then take a shot.

If you're out wide, try crossing the ball right when you get it. Do this the next two or three times you
get the soccer ball. Then, when the defense is anticipating you to cross the ball again, that's when
you take the player on the dribble, beat them down the line, and cut the ball back to a teammate. Of
course, you can always go to right towards goal and take a shot yourself if the opening is there. The
idea with crossing the ball on a regular basis is to make the defense think you're always going to
serve the ball into the box, and then that one time you cut by them and go at goal. It's also helpful to
your teammates you are making runs. If they know you're going to cross the ball they can time there
runs accordingly.

Need an example of how to cross the soccer ball? There is no better crosser of the ball than David
Beckham, just mimic what he does. Yeah, I know that's easier said than done. See how Beckham puts
the ball in with pace, so all the attacker has to do his redirect the ball on goal. That's what you want
to do when you cross the ball. No lofted balls when you cross it - whip the ball in at speed.

Play with Older Players

If you want to get better, try to find the best game possible near where you live when you are
training. To become a great player you should push yourself, and there is no better way to do this
than to play with more experienced players who are better than you are.

The idea is to pick up all of their tricks and skills that they have learned over the years. This kind of
mentoring process is a huge part of improving your game and you often won't even realize what
subtle skills you'll pick up, just by watching and playing with better and more experienced players.

Challenging yourself by playing with experienced players will speed up your play, make you play
stronger on the ball, and you'll learn from their experience - where to play the ball, when to pass,
when to dribble, and where to make runs.
And it's not just about playing with experienced or older players, it's about playing with players who
are better than you are. If there's one short cut to getting better it's playing with players who are
better than you are.

Slow Down

Essentially "slowing down" means making the easy pass to the open player. It doesn't mean
necessarily slowing down your speed of play, rather it's letting the ball do the work, and not forcing
the play. Keep your mind moving fast and focused but play simple soccer. If there is an open player
to pass to then play them the ball. Then, when they get closed down they play the ball back to you.

As a young player one of the difficult things to learn is patience. This means things like letting the
ball do the work through one and two touch play. Each time you make a pass the defense changes
their position and new things open up at different angles on the field - new spaces to run into,
dribble, and pass are created when you move the ball. It might take five or six passes before you can
find that one killer pass in behind the defense. There's no need to force it though.

Quick Decisions

As a professional soccer player, you won't have time to really think after receiving the soccer ball.
Know what you are going to do with the ball before you get it. This means knowing where you're
support is coming from and receiving the ball with your body blocking it from the defender.

Eventually, playing simple soccer will become automatic when you are involved in the rhythm of the
game. But it's important to want and ask for the ball. If you don't ask for the ball you might not get it
- they might think you don't want it or aren't open.

Again, use your body to shield the ball so a defender can't win the ball or if they do you'll earn a
throw in or a free kick. To get out of pressure, play simple give and goes with your teammates. Be
aware of where you can move or how you can position yourself to help out your teammates. Using
your body means dribbling with your left foot when there is a defender on your right and dribbling
and shielding the ball with your right foot when there is a defender on your on your left. If you don't
know if you can turn or have time, keep your body between the ball and the defenfer and keep your
head so you can find a teammate. You should always try to know where you are on the field by
taking quick looks before you receive the ball. The key though is not to panic, if you're closed down,
shield the ball and protect it.
The idea behind soccer is really simple, it's kind of like this, "Hey, hold the ball for a second while I
get open or in a better position where I will have more time and can see the field better." If you
watch the best teams in the world, whether it's Bareclona, Arsenal or Real Madrid, tehy move the
ball around to the player with the most time and space. It's a big game of keep away in a sense. And
this is one of the greatest aspects of the game of soccer, where you work with your teammates to
ping the ball around the other team, and they can't even get a touch on the ball before you score a
goal.

The Half Turn

If you're playing as a midfielder, turn your body at an angle when you check back to the ball so you
can connect with the forwards and the defenders. You can accomplish this by not having your back
entirely to the forwards. Midfielders should try to be half-turned and facing one of the sidelines. This
way they can view both the back line of defenders, if they are trying to make a pass to you, and the
forwards and other midfielders to see where they are making runs.

When you play on the wing or in a wide position along the touchline, open yourself to the field, so
you're in a position to see the whole field and receive the ball. Again, instead of having your back
facing the forwards you can turn your shoulder towards the outside touchline so you are open to the
field.

If you watch players like Sergio Busquets or Xavi at Barcelona, they're constantly looking over their
shoulder before they receive the ball so they know if there's a defender coming or if they can turn.
They also rarely check back to the ball with their back turned towards the rest of the field. Instead,
they look over their shoulder before the ball comes and come back to the ball almost half turned
Soccer Movements & Positional Running

Forwards

One forward should sit closer to the midfielders while the other tries to stretch the defense (standing
next to the last player on the other team, usually the sweeper). With this alignment, the first forward
can check back to the ball and then cut inside if he doesn't receive the ball.

The player with the ball (let's say the right back) can then play the ball inside to the first forward or to
the forward who is posting up deeper into their opponents area. The post up forward can either try
to receive the ball while he or she posts up or check towards the ball after the other forward makes
the initial run back to the ball. The first forward then takes up the deeper position. Checking in and
out and exchanging positions makes up the movement of the forwards.

The two forwards are aligned in a pair in the center of the field and the closest forward checks back
to the ball at an angle, to the right or left. The reason you check back at an angle is to open up the
space behind you for another player to run into and to give the passer the space or target to play the
ball into. The key is also to use your body to protect the ball once you receivce it. Shield the ball from
the defender. If he or she is marked then he or she can cut into the middle to receive the ball. They
must keep running and rotate back to the post-up position.

It is really two runs: checking back to the ball, and then if that isn't on, making a run back into the
middle. Meanwhile, the other, posting up forward, can check back to the ball, and the other forward
spins to offer support.

Midfielders

With quick check back runs towards the ball midfielders can get open. These can be five or ten yard
runs back to the ball, to the side or breaking into the attack. It could even just be bringing your
marker into an area where you don't want the ball so you can run into the space where you want the
ball. Walking away a few yards and then darting back to the ball.
Midfielders should also see the whole field, so they should have their body open to the field or half
turned if they're in the middle of the soccer field. If you watch Iniesta or Xavi at Barcelona, they're
constantly moving, checking back for the ball but with their heads up so they can see when a player
is making a run. They keep the game very simple, giving the ball and getting it back when they have
more space and time. If they're under pressure they lay the ball back and then get the ball again
when they're better positioned to make a pass, dribble or shoot. Of course these two players are
exceptional, with their ability to hold the ball under pressure and make the killer pass.

Midfielders should also look over their shoulders before they get the ball to see if a defender is
approaching and or if they can turn. Get into the habit of looking around to see where your
teammates are and whether there's pressure coming from a defender. Again, Xavi of Barcelona is
constantly doing this, just watch him play and you'll see his head turn to look behind him before he
gets the ball.

Back Door Cuts

If the defender that's marking you is too tight you can fake like your checking back to receive the ball
and then make a run into the attack. The run is good for both forwards and midfielders. It's just a
simple way to elude a defender.

When you're checking back to the ball, and you see that the defender is too close to you, marking
you tightly, break into the space behind them. This is something that develops over time, and
understanding between you and your teammates. They see what's happening and make the right
pass. Make the initial run back to the ball a little slower, and then break behind the defense in a
quick burst.

Defenders

Defensive movements are mostly in support and cover positions. NOt diving in or going for a tackle
unless you have support. Pressuring the ball to force the attacker to get their head down so they
can't see the field and then winning the ball straight away when the chance is there. The key though
is keeping the attacker in front of you and make them play the ball backwards.

When on offense, a defender moves the ball around to relieve pressure, as in switching the ball into
an open area of the field or playing the ball into a midfielder or forward and then getting it back.
Defenders for the most part hold their positions in the back, however, in today's game, some of the
most dangerous attackers are outside fulbacks like Dani Alves, Maicon or Sergio Ramos. These
players are constantly running and often get into attack by overlapping or making delayed runs into
the attack when the time is right. Just watch how much Alves pairs up with Messi for Barcelona as
they attack down the line.

Overall, on defense you want your team to be compact and on offense you want to open up and
expand. As a compact unit you can close down a certain area and win the ball and still have time to
get back if the other team makes a long pass to the other side of the field. As a defender you want to
run back towards your goal - re-group and defend as a unit, so you recover by first running towards
your goal unless you have support and somone needs to pressure the ball.

Defensive Guidelines

1. It starts with one person pressuring the ball so the offensive player has to make a decision and
can't get his or her head up.

2. Then a cover person who lets the pressuring person know if her or she should try to win the ball.

3. Next, is a organized compact unit letting those ahead of them know where players are around
them and which direction they should steer them so the unit can win the ball.

4. Know your opponents and what they like to do. For instance, if you were lucky enough to be
marking Arjen Robben you would force him outside and on to his weaker right foot.

5. Communicate and let your teammates know if a player is running in behind them, if they need to
step up, if they need to put more pressure on a player, if they can go in and win the ball since they
have cover
 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Soccer Positions Guide

Here's a quick run down of the main positions in soccer.

However, while players might play one position or have one role, in today's modern game
most players can adjust and play a number of different positions on the field. This means being able
to play on the right or left side or move into the attack as well as having the endurance to get back
and defend.

At the same time though, specialization is key, whether that's being a goal scorer, an
exceptional crosser of the ball or someone who just doesn't get beat and wins every ball on defense.
For instance, David Beckham is an expert crosser of the ball, David Villa is a pure goal scorer, and Rio
Rerdinand is a classic ball winner - those are their areas of expertise.

It's a balance, you want to have certain unqiue qualities that set you apart from other
players, but you also want to be able to adjust and play different roles at certain moments in the
game.

Attacking Midfielder This is the midfielder who always looks to get the ball and start the
attack. They're sometimes called the playmaker. They are the creative engine of the team. Their
passes lead to goal scoring chances and the ball is always on their foot. Think of Xavi or Iniesta of
Barcelona and Real Madrid's Kaka. They are experts at the give and go, switching play, and the
through ball. These are players who provide that killer goal-scoring pass in behind the defense but
also help maintain possession. The attacking midfielder also scores goals. Defense is not their first
priority.

Box-to-Box Midfielder This is the midfielder who can play from one goal box to the other,
meaning they can attack and defend. Essentially they can get up and down the field throughout the
game. They are tireless and have tremendous work rates. They can prevent goals with big tackles and
score goals. Think Stuart Holden of Bolton or Manchester United's Darren Fletcher.

Center Midfielder These are the players who don't lose the ball but help their teams keep
possession. They have great vision, control and passing ability. They get everyone involved in the
game and create goal-scoring chances or develop and build attacking sequences for for their team.
They are a combination of a holding midfielder and attacking midfielder. They can play both short
passes and the long ball. Arsenals Cesc Fabregas is a good example.

Holding Midfielder The holding midfielder sits back and spreads the ball around the field.
They are exceptional passers of the ball. They read the game really well and win balls by intercepting
passes. They're less likely to get into the attack as much as an attacking midfielder but they can score
goals and shoot from distance. Think of Michael Carrick or Paul Scholes of Manchester United.
Although Scholes probably fits into a number of categories as far as midfielders go.

The Enforcer or Hard Man These are most often midfielders who make tough tackles and
give an attitude to their team. They lead their team and intimidate the other team. However,
sometimes their desire and fight can get them into trouble, as they earn yellow or even red cards.
This is something they have to monitor and keep in check. But this is an important role for all teams.
Every team needs a player who demands the best from everyone on the field and wont let
teammates receive harsh treatment from the other team. If one of their teammates is fouled
unfairly, theyll make a point of making an equally hard tackle when they get the chance on the other
team. They are very vocal and demand the best from their teammates. If anyone is not giving their
best, they'll be sure to let them know. Think Gennaro Gattuso of AC Milan or Roy Keane of
Manchester United.

Winger Have great speed and the ability to beat players on the dribble. They get down the
line and cross the ball. Think Ryan Giggs of Manchester United or Gareth Bale of Tottenham Hotspurs
or Arjen Robben of Bayern Munich. They are less relied upon for defensive purposes. Their main
purpose is to get into the attack and create chances, most of the time by getting down the line and
crossing the ball.

Right Midfielder Technical strong with the ball at their feet, they can dribble, pass, shot and
cross. These players have good endurance and can get back and defend. They are good crossers of
the ball, tough tacklers, and read the game very well. In today's game the outside back has become
an attacking element of the game. Most often they are right footed, however, in todays game, many
left footed players are playing on the right side so they can cut inside and shoot with their right foot.
 Left Midfielder - Technical strong with the ball at their feet, they can dribble, pass, shot and
cross. These players have good endurance and can get back and defend. They are good crossers of
the ball, tough tacklers, and read the game very well. Most often they are left footed, however, in
todays game, many right footed players are playing on the left side so they can cut inside and shoot
with their left foot.

Right Fullback - Usually right-footed players. Tough in the tackle, can jump and win head
balls, serves in good driven balls to forwards, crosses the ball well, reads the game, doesnt dive in,
tough in the tackle, and communicates with the rest of the back line. Top fullbacks today, players like
Dani Alves, can get into the attack by overlaping, playing give and goes, or flying down the wing for a
switch, and then he also gets back to defend. How do you become a good fullback, copy some of the
best players in the game. Top fullbacks to mirror your game after: Ashley Cole, Sergio Ramos, Philip
Lahm, Dani Alves, Maicon, Patrice Evra.

Left Fullback Usually left footed players. Tough in the tackle, wins headers, serves in good
driven balls to forwards, good crosser of theh ball, reads the game, doesnt dive in, and
communicates with the rest of the back line. How do you become a good fullback, copy some of the
best players in the game. Top fullbacks to mirror your game after: Ashley Cole, Sergio Ramos, Philip
Lahm, Dani Alves, Maicon, Patrice Evra.

Sweeper In many ways this position has been faded out, but players like Ricardo Carvalho
of Real Madrid still function much like a sweeper playing at the very back and cleaning things up,
covering for other players, reading game. The sweeper is a very intelligent player, much like a central
midfielder, and very comfortable on the ball.

Central Defender (Stopper or Center Back) Qualities: leaders, fearless, tough, and skilled.
Think Rio Ferdinand of Manchester United. These are players who can distribute the ball out of the
back but also win head balls and snuff out attacks. They have good speed, strength and technically
adept with the ball at their feet. Gone are the days when a defender only had to win the ball and
make tackles and clear the ball. Today, defenders are sharp with the ball at their feet and tenacious
in the tackle.

Forward (Striker) These are the players how just have a nose of the goal. They can sore with
their head, right and left feet, on the volley, sliding on their knees or just about anyway possible. Top
forwards in the game, Samuel Etoo of Inter Milan and David Villa of Barcelona. Think of Javier
Chicharito Hernandez of Manchester United, who has been on a goal-scoring tear.
 Floating Attacker Incredibly skilled, they can dribble, pass, shoot and do the unexpected.
They score goals as well as setup their teammates. Think Lionel Messi or Wayne Rooney, who, for
their teams sometimes float around the attacking area looking for the ball.

Goalkeeper This is of course the only player in soccer who can use their hands. However, in
todays game, the keeper has to be skilled at using their feet too, so they can clear the ball and help
their team maintain position and switch the attack. Keepers need to possess a fearlessness, as they
have to put themselves in dangers positions, whether its coming out for a cross or stopping a player
charging at them one versus one. Keepers dont need to be tall, but quick and agile, able to tip balls
over the bar and get down to deflect the ball from going into the lower corner. Who are some of the
best keepers in the game to learn from: Iker Casillas of Real Madrid and Edwin Van Der Sar of
Manchester United.

Extra: Again, the modern game is one of fluidity, where players switch positions and nothing
changes. Where the right fullback can play right midfielder or vice versa. Fullbacks can get into the
attack and forwards can come back and defend, if needed. Just look at the twins Fabio and Rafael da
Silva of Manchester United, Ashley Cole of Chelsea, or Dani Alves of Barcelona, these are the new
defenders, players who create goal scoring chances and win balls in the back - they get up and down
the field and dominate their side.

In this way, the game of soccer today is about movement and versatility. The best evidience
of this is in the midfield. This is where the most changing of positions takes place. A central
midfielder floats out wide to find space, switching places with a wide midfielder or winger, and
nothing changes. This change can throw off the defense and create goal scoring chances. And the
new concept of playing right footed midfielders on the left side so they can cut in and shoot with
their favored foot is evidence of the game constantly evolving.

In the end, it pays to be versatile. And if you have good technical skills, then you'll feel
comfortable in any position on the field.

As a player, you're more likely to succeed in the game if you're rounded and somone who
can both attack and defend. It's interesting how many times you see young players who once played
in the attack, as forwards, and then become defenders when they move on to the college or
professional game. If you have the skills and ability then you'll always have a place on the pitch, and
that's what every player wants.