3. Dribbling & Shooting

Dribbling
Dribbling is another skill that a player must develop in order to be more successful in soccer. During the game, players will face situations where they must advance the ball by dribbling up the field or past an opposing player. This ability can affect the outcome of the game, especially when close to the opposing goal. Players with advanced dribbling skills can:

• Disrupt defense
• Facilitate offense
• Create scoring opportunities for self and teammates

To perform a dribble:

• Tap the ball forward gently with the inside or outside of the foot. Try and use both feet
• As you dribble, make sure the ball is close to your foot making it harder for defenders to tackle you
• Always keep your head up to know where the defender is and what your next move will be
• Try and keep a consistent pace and the ball under control

Watch the instructional video on how to perform a dribble

Shooting
If you don’t shoot, you don’t score. Therefore, shooting in soccer is an essential skill to help a team win a game. To execute a successful shot in soccer, it is important to have as much power and accuracy as possible. To perform a shot:

• Keep your head down, looking over the ball
• Make sure your plant foot is pointed at the target
• Keep your ankle locked and toe down
• Contact the middle of the ball with the laces part of your shoe
• Follow through with your shooting foot

Watch the instructional video on the correct shooting technique