5 Essential Crossing Techniques in Football

Crossing is a fundamental skill in football that allows players to deliver the ball into the penalty area for teammates to attack. A well-placed cross can lead to goals, assists, and dangerous scoring opportunities. Mastering different crossing techniques provides players with versatility and adaptability on the field.

1. Standard Curve Cross

The standard curve cross is a classic technique that involves bending the ball inward towards the goal. It's a versatile cross that can be used from various distances and angles. To execute a standard curve cross, follow these steps:

1. Position your body facing the goal with your non-dominant foot slightly behind the ball.
2. Place your dominant foot on the outside of the ball, near the middle.
3. Strike the ball with the inside of your foot, making contact slightly above the center of the ball.
4. Follow through with your swing, keeping your body balanced.
5. The angle of your foot and the amount of force applied will determine the curve of the cross.

The standard curve cross is effective for delivering the ball to the far post, where attackers can get a clear shot at goal.

2. Trivela Cross

The trivela cross is a more advanced technique that involves striking the ball with the outside of your foot, causing it to curve in the opposite direction of your swing. This technique is particularly useful for delivering the ball to the near post, where attackers can surprise the opposing goalkeeper.

1. Position your body facing the goal with your non-dominant foot slightly behind the ball.
2. Place your dominant foot on the outside of the ball, near the middle.
3. Strike the ball with the outside of your foot, making contact slightly above the center of the ball.
4. Follow through with your swing, keeping your body balanced.
5. The angle of your foot and the amount of force applied will determine the curve of the cross.

The trivela cross is a challenging technique but can be highly effective when mastered. It's a great tool for creating unpredictable crosses and catching defenders off guard.

3. Low Driven Cross

The low driven cross is a powerful technique that involves striking the ball with the inside of your foot, keeping it low and close to the ground. This technique is ideal for delivering the ball to the near post, where attackers can control the ball and take a shot quickly.

1. Position your body facing the goal with your non-dominant foot slightly behind the ball.
2. Place your dominant foot on the inside of the ball, near the middle.
3. Strike the ball with the inside of your foot, making contact slightly below the center of the ball.
4. Follow through with your swing, keeping your body balanced.
5. Keep your foot low and close to the ground to maintain a low trajectory.

The low driven cross is difficult for defenders to intercept and can be particularly dangerous for opposing goalkeepers.

4. Lofted Cross

The lofted cross is a technique that involves striking the ball with the inside of your foot, giving it a high arc towards the goal. This technique is effective for delivering the ball to the far post, where attackers can head the ball into the net. It's also helpful for creating crosses over the heads of defenders.

1. Position your body facing the goal with your non-dominant foot slightly behind the ball.
2. Place your dominant foot on the inside of the ball, near the middle.
3. Strike the ball with the inside of your foot, making contact slightly above the center of the ball.
4. Follow through with your swing, keeping your body balanced.
5. Lift your foot upward to give the ball a high arc.

The lofted cross is a challenging technique that requires good timing and accuracy. However, when executed correctly, it can be a deadly weapon in the attacking arsenal.

5. Chip Cross

The chip cross is a delicate technique that involves striking the ball with the underside of your foot, sending it high in the air with a soft touch. This technique is ideal for delivering the ball over the heads of defenders to a forward who is making a run towards the goal. It requires precision and control to execute effectively.

1. Position your body facing the goal with your non-dominant foot slightly behind the ball.
2. Place your dominant foot on the underside of the ball, near the middle.
3. Strike the ball with the underside of your foot, making contact slightly below the center of the ball.
4. Follow through with your swing, keeping your body balanced.
5. Use a light touch to send the ball high in the air.

The chip cross is a risky technique but can be highly rewarding if successful. It's a great way to create scoring opportunities when conventional crossing options are unavailable.

Conclusion

Mastering different crossing techniques is essential for any aspiring footballer. Each technique offers unique advantages and can be employed in various situations to create scoring opportunities. By practicing and refining these techniques, players can become more versatile and effective in the attacking third.