Soccer skills, attacking, defending - become a star!

Attacking Skills

Soccer can be a beautiful game to play and watch. However, many different soccer skills are needed to master the game.

Dribbling
Dribbling can be a great skill when mastered. Apart from close control, you need deception to confuse your opponents.
However, the secret to good dribbling is to know when to pass or shoot.

Shooting
When shooting, you should have your non kicking foot next to the ball. Keep your head down with your body over the ball, and try to make connection with your shoe laces (front part of the foot).

Passing
Keep your eyes on the ball and use the instep of your foot. Be sure to follow through to where you want the ball to go.

Bending the ball
You can use either the instep or outstep of the foot to bend the ball. Strike the ball off centre to make the ball bend.

Defensive Skills

Tackling
Timing is the most important factor in tackling. If you cannot win the ball and keep possession, the next best thing is to clear it to safety.

Goal Keeping
Goalkeepers need very special skills and qualities. You need good hands, agility, courage, and a sense of positioning.

Other Skills

Heading
The secret to heading the ball is to keep your eyes on the ball and make firm contact with your forehead. Don't just let the ball bounce off your head.For extra power, get your neck back and follow through.

Shielding
When shielding the ball, place your legs and body between the ball and the opponent to make it difficult for him/her to win the ball.

Receiving
Get your body behind the ball and cushion the pass with the instep of your foot.

Juggling
Try to keep the ball low and under control. Once you have mastered juggling with your feet, try to use other parts of you body.