subject: All Soccer Players Enjoy Scoring Goals [print this page] Soccer is the most popular sport in the worldSoccer is the most popular sport in the world. One of the major reasons for its appeal is the simplicity and ease of access for its participants. All you need is a soccer ball. You can practice on your own, with friends or with a professional coach. The core elements of a successful soccer player are excellent control of the ball; accurate and powerful passing and shooting; and intelligent, well-timed tackles.
Shooting
All soccer players enjoy scoring goals, it's what every match revolves around. The crucial factors of a successful shot, according to BBC Sport, are "power and accuracy." Repetition is the key when training to improve your shooting -- hit as many balls as you can, striking the ball low with the instep of your foot. Another drill to improve the power of your shot involves bringing the kicking leg through quickly and increasing your follow-through. When practicing, always try to aim for the corners of the goal, making it difficult for the goalkeeper.
Passing
Unlike shooting, a successful short passing technique uses the inside of your foot. Because your body position indicates to your opponents the destination of the pass, try to use the side of your foot just for short passes. You can practice this skill by hitting the ball against a wall or passing the ball between you and a teammate. Similar to shooting, a drive pass requires you to use your instep and "drive through the ball." When combining power and accuracy, concentrate on keeping you knee above the ball as you strike it, and don't lean back.
Ball Control
Arguably the most important technical element of a successful soccer player, controlling the ball well will set you apart from other players. James Lennox writes in "Soccer Skills and Drills" that "constant correct repetition of technique is required to improve a skill" and every time someone passes a ball to you, controlling it, with any part of your body, will improve your soccer skills. Get into line with the path of the ball, predict where you think it's going to land and, according to BBC Sport, if the ball is coming above waist height, use your chest instead of attempting to use your foot.
Tackling
Some of the best defenders in the world never dive while trying to win the ball; they "jockey" players, staying on their feet, attempting to slow players down. If a player is predominantly right-footed, good defenders try to jockey them onto their left foot. The second tackle is the block tackle. Try not to lunge in too early, keep your eye on the ball, and if you think there is an opportunity to block a pass or shot "your weight should move forward as you prepare to tackle with the inside of your foot." Finally, the slide tackle should be used as a last resort. Because of the high-risk of giving away a foul, practice this skill repeatedly before attempting it in a game. Try to use the foot you're most comfortable with when trying a slide tackle, which will improve your timing and reduce the chances of giving away a foul.
