This article is part of a series on how to play soccer, and this article will focus on ball control and the way to get the soccer ball under control as quick and as effectively as possible.
Controlling the ball in soccer is a fundamental skill that is essential when you are learning how to play soccer. In simplistic terms, controlling the ball is the "simple" task of receiving the ball and getting the ball in a position that you want it for your next move. Generally this means getting the ball on the ground and in a position where you are able to kick the ball with your preferred foot in the direction that you wish to kick the ball. Simple, right?
Any part of the body (except for the hands and arm) can be used to control the ball, but the main body parts are the foot, thigh, torso (upper and lower) and head. I have sometimes used the back of my legs too, but only in certain circumstances, which I will explain later. Get Behind the Ball It doesn't really matter what part of the body that is used, the technique is the same. As the ball is approaching, the player must adjust their body position so that they are ready to receive the ball. This means on their toes and ensuring that as much of their body is "behind" the ball. It is imperative to get your body behind the ball for two main reasons.
You will have a front on view of the ball as it approaches and therefore have a better view of the ball.
If you have misjudged the flight of the ball having more of your behind the ball reduces the risk of you not controlling the ball as the ball is likely to connect with another part of your body.
Body Position After getting behind the ball, the player must consider the body position that is needed to control the ball in such a way that the ball is directed where the player wants the ball to go. One good example of this is getting the player to "open up" or receive the ball with an open body stance, allowing the player see more of the playing field and to direct the ball forward, by receiving the ball with their back foot. The technique of "opening up" and receiving the ball with an open stance is invaluable, and one which must be taught to your players. The next time you are watching a televised game, just watch and see how players position themselves when receiving the ball.
Cushioning the ball The last part is the actual contact of the body with the ball. This is the most important part of controlling the ball and needs accurate execution. The technique is to cushion the ball so that the ball does not bounce off the players' body too far. To cushion the ball, simply withdraw the part of the body that is receiving the ball on impact, which "softens the blow" and ensure that the ball stays within reach of the player.
The Next Step One common mistake when teaching players how to play soccer is for players to be taught to stop the ball "dead" and right in front of their foot. When you are learning to control the ball, it is often far better to either have the ball moving in the direction that you want to go at a pace that keeps the ball within your reach and makes the ball ready for your next move, whether that is a shot, a pass or to dribble with the ball. Knowing how to control the ball and getting to do what you want it to as quickly as possible, gives you the edge over your opponents.
Back of the Legs?
If the ball is coming from a great height, then an unconventional way to control the ball is to use the back of the legs by "sitting" on the ball immediately after it bounces. This technique is quite fun,but does require good timing to ensure that you are in a sitting position, over the ball, at exactly the right time and in the right place. This technique is not often taught when teaching players how to play soccer, but it is a good one and can be very effective at the right time.
