One of the basic elements of soccer⚽ that can lead to success is how well players can position themselves to receive a pass. Positioning, anticipation, and communication play significant roles in a game.
Getting open to receive a pass is more than just running, 🏃♀️it also includes understanding what is happening on the field, the defenders’ positions, and your team’s strategy.
This week, Coach Mike Semenza will explore the intricacies of how a soccer player gets open to receive a pass.
Understanding the Game Flow🧠
Soccer is an active sport where the game’s flow changes every second. Awareness of the game’s flow helps a player decide when to make a run. Players who can master this are one step ahead of their opponents. They appear to have more time and space than others on the field.
They analyze the game continuously, are aware of their surroundings, and can accurately predict the next sequence of play. This ability allows them to position themselves effectively, making it easier to receive a pass.
Creating Space🏃♀️
One of the primary techniques in getting open is the ability to create space. This skill requires timing and movement. A well-timed run can disrupt the opposition’s defense, creating space for the player and their teammates.
But, creating space is not just about making runs, it is about intelligent🧠 positioning. The best players choose positions where they can be most effective. By occupying the blind spots of defenders or situating themselves between the lines of defense and midfield, players can get open more effectively.
Deception🪄
Deception is an important tool in a soccer player’s arsenal. Clever body feints, sudden changes in direction, or varied pacing can confuse defenders and create openings for receiving a pass. Lionel Messi is a master of this. He often makes his move in the opposite direction before quickly darting into the space where he anticipates the ball.
Communication and Teamwork🧑🤝🧑
Soccer is a team sport and communication is vital. Players need to be in constant dialogue with their teammates. This is done both verbally and non-verbally. A lifted hand, a nod, a shout, or even eye😲 contact can be used to signal where a player intends to move or where they want the pass to be played. This unspoken language, when understood by all team members, can create seamless opportunities for players to receive a pass.
Understanding Defensive Structures😎
Finally, understanding the defensive tactics of the opposing team is super important for knowing when to create space. Are they playing a high line? Are they crowding the midfield? What does their defensive line look like? Answers to these questions can help you exploit their weaknesses and find pockets of space to receive a pass.⚽
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Article of the Week: How to Be Effective with Movement off the Ball
Blayze soccer coach Mike is back with another “Skills in 60 Seconds”. Today we will talk about how to be effective with movement off the ball. And how this movement can help your teammates. Let’s go!
