3 Ways to Stop Losing the Ball in Soccer

Losing the ball in soccer can be frustrating, but it’s a common problem that can be overcome with practice and the right techniques. Here are three ways to improve your ball control and prevent losing the ball:

1. Master the Inside of the Foot

The inside of the foot is the most common and versatile way to control the ball in soccer. It’s great for passing, receiving, and dribbling. To master the inside of the foot, practice these drills:

• Passing Drills: Pass the ball back and forth with a partner, focusing on using the inside of your foot to control the ball and make accurate passes.
• Receiving Drills: Have a partner pass the ball to you, and use the inside of your foot to control the ball and trap it. Practice receiving the ball from different angles and distances.
• Dribbling Drills: Dribble the ball around cones or markers, focusing on using the inside of your foot to control the ball and change direction. Practice dribbling at different speeds and with different levels of intensity.

2. Use the Outside of the Foot for Precision

The outside of the foot is less commonly used than the inside, but it’s a valuable tool for precision and creating space. It’s particularly helpful for:

• Passing: Using the outside of the foot allows you to make precise passes around defenders, creating passing lanes and opportunities for teammates.
• Dribbling: The outside of the foot can be used to create space between you and a defender, making it more difficult for them to steal the ball.

To practice using the outside of the foot, try these drills:

• Passing Drills: Pass the ball to a partner, focusing on using the outside of your foot to make accurate passes around cones or markers.
• Dribbling Drills: Dribble the ball around cones or markers, switching between using the inside and outside of your foot. Practice dribbling with both feet to improve your versatility.

3. Learn the Power of the Sole

The sole of the foot is a powerful tool for controlling the ball and shielding it from defenders. It’s particularly useful for:

• Trapping the ball: Use the sole of your foot to trap the ball when it’s coming from a teammate or an opponent.
• Shielding the ball: When a defender is close to you, use the sole of your foot to shield the ball from their reach. This can give you time to make a decision or pass the ball.

Practice these drills to master the sole of your foot:

• Trapping Drills: Have a partner pass the ball to you, and use the sole of your foot to trap the ball. Practice trapping the ball from different angles and distances.
• Shielding Drills: Have a partner try to steal the ball from you, and use the sole of your foot to shield the ball from their reach. Practice shielding the ball in different situations.

By mastering these techniques and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your ball control and reduce the chances of losing the ball. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep working at it and you’ll see great results on the field.