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If you are a beginning soccer player, there are several skills that you need to learn. The most fundamental skill is dribbling. Dribbling in soccer is different than dribbling in basketball. Dribbling in soccer is running while keeping the ball near to your feet. You lightly kick it with the inside or outside of your foot so that it rolls forwards a short distance. Keep your face slightly tilted down so that you can easily glance at the ball for your next kick and keep your eyes on your opponents and teammates. You should be able to control the ball and keep it close to your feet even when your are running fast.
You need to be able to pass the ball quickly and accurately to your teammates. To pass the ball, put your non-kicking foot beside the ball. Keep the ankle of your kicking foot straight and stiff. Then confidently and quickly squarely kick the ball.
Shooting is when you kick the ball in an attempt to score. Kick the ball with your instep while keeping your toes pointed down. Kicking with your instep gives you more control over the ball. Your shot will be more accurate and more likely to end in a point for your team.
At times your offensive strategy requires a long kick. This type of kick can send the ball far away from the opposing team. It can place the ball in the area of play for a forward. It is also a type of kick that is used in scoring a goal.
Learn how to effectively shield the ball. This is where you keep your body between the ball and your opponent. It can be challenging to effectively shield the ball. But by doing so, you will keep possession of the ball and keep it away from the opposing team.
