Hello Blayze soccer fans! Today we are going to dive into one of the most thrilling plays in soccer,⚽ the corner kick! Corner kicks occur at all age groups and all levels. So it is important to know how to execute one.
Taking a corner kick is a blend of strategy, technique, and communication📣 with your team. You should practice taking corner kicks so you can master the techniques needed, but also knowing how to read the game and your opponent’s defense setup is equally as important.
Blayze soccer coach Mike Semenza will take you through the steps to hit a strong💪 corner kick.
The Basics
First, what is a corner kick? 🤷♂️A corner kick is awarded when the ball goes out of play over the goal line, without a goal being scored, and it was last touched by a player on the defending team. This is a golden opportunity for the attacking team to score as it provides a chance to deliver the ball directly into the penalty area.
Factors to Consider
There are elements to consider before taking a corner kick.
- What is the wind like?💨
- Where are the opponents setting up?
- Where are your teammates setting up?
- What kind of effect do you want the ball to have?⚽
- Do you have adequate ball placement?
Ball Placement
Ball placement is important. ⚽You want to place the ball on the goal line and the corner kick arc. Plant your non-dominant leg next to the ball before you kick.
A right-footed kicker should approach the ball from left to right and a left-footed kicker from right to left.
Point of Impact
Utilize the toe edge/internal border of your cleat👟 as your point of impact on the ball. To achieve a bend or spin on the ball, apply more force to one side of the ball than the other.
Different amounts of power will determine the effect or spin on the ball.⚽
Visualization
Many players overlook this element. Visualization 👀is a very powerful tool to help your body execute your mechanics. Right before you strike the ball, visualize where you want the ball to go. If you are aiming for a specific teammate or a general area, have a clear picture in your mind to help enhance your accuracy.
Tips
Communication is key. 📣Before executing the corner kick, the kicker and their teammates should be on the same page as to what is about to occur. Use signals or gestures to communicate the intended play.
Vary your delivery. Change up your corners. 👥If you repeat the same type of corner kick each time, the defending team will predict it and counter it.
Scan the defense. If you notice the defending team has left an area uncovered or is poorly organized, exploit that space.🚀
Do you have a question that you want answered? Reply to this email with your question and you might see it answered in our next newsletter!
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