Improving your ability to find penetrative passes in-game requires a combination of technical skills, tactical awareness, and mental sharpness. This week, Blayze coach Xavier Mayol brings you his insights on how to improve your penetrative passes in-game, so you can bring your playing to the next level.
Here are several strategies to help you enhance this aspect of your game:
Vision and Awareness👀
Most importantly you need to scan the field at all times. You need to know what is ahead of you, what is behind you, what is next to you, and so on. Develop a habit of looking up before receiving the ball to anticipate passing opportunities.
Awareness of space and player movement is crucial for finding penetrative passes.
Passing
Next, when you receive the ball,⚽ you want to look for the longer option, rather than the short option. Instead of the easy pass near you, look for the far players. Practice various passing techniques such as through balls, chips, and curved passes. Try to give a strong pass instead of a soft pass.
Timing & Decision Making
Timing⏳ is crucial when attempting penetrative passes. Learn to recognize when the passing lanes are open and when to release the ball. Look for the split. A moment when you can go forward and drop opponents. If there is a way for you to connect between the opponents, then you can create a penetrative pass. Analyze the movement of defenders and exploit gaps in their positioning to execute successful passes.
Communication
Effective communication🗣️ with teammates is essential for executing penetrative passes. Use verbal and non-verbal cues to signal your intentions and create opportunities for combination play. Develop an understanding of your teammates' movements and preferences to enhance your synergy on the field.
Study & Analyze
Watch games at the highest level and analyze🧠 the passing techniques of elite players. Pay attention to their decision-making process, movement off the ball, and ability to break down defenses with penetrative passes. Incorporate what you learn into your own game and adapt it to your playing style.
When you incorporate these tools into your training regimen, you can improve your ability to find penetrative passes and become a more effective playmaker.
Drill of the Week: Pass and Move Right with Return
Use this drill to increase your dribbling and passing skills.
