Soccer is a sport that rewards mastery of the ball, so players with the ability to take possession from the opposing team and cut off the opposing game are very valuable.
The best techniques for stealing the ball use a combination of patience and, in a good way, “aggressive” play. We are not referring to rough play, of course, nor is it about hitting the opponent. We refer to the ability to always be attentive, expectant, going out to cut the opponent’s game without delay when the opportunity presents itself. It is important to know how to read the game, having to know how to recognize when the moment is right.
Learn about some tips that will help you improve your skills as a defender and increase your ability to steal the ball .
The best strategies to steal the ball in soccer
1. Wait for the right moment
As a defense you must have quick feet, must act without delay when the opportunity arises, in addition to being always focused and ready for action. In a one-on-one battle, simply wanting the ball more than the attacker wants it is a plus. You must become a “thief” on the playing field.
The best defenders know how to lean their body to induce the attacker to go to the sides or to where another defender is. In the latter case, the attacker must then deal with two rival players working together as a defensive block, not just one.
When the attacker approaches, the automatic reaction of an inexperienced defender will be to jump immediately to get the ball. In contrast, an experienced defender will lean his body to the side he wants the opposing striker to go, sliding sideways with quick steps, forcing the moment when the opponent makes a mistake.
The pressure of a firm defense leads forwards to make mistakes. And it is then the opportune moment in which the defender must act.
2. Maintain balance
Good defenders only try to cut the ball when they see a certain opportunity to steal it or clear it to a teammate. Otherwise, a failed robbery attempt can leave your own team unbalanced and at a distinct disadvantage.
Skilled attackers rarely show the ball too much. If a defender manages to develop the ability to move quickly laterally, he will thus achieve the ability to always be on the striker, being able to take advantage of the opportunity to cut the ball when it arises.
3. Use your shoulders
An attentive defender must also realize when it is time to use his shoulders and accommodate his body on that of the opponent to gain his position legally. The football regulations allow this type of contact.
Of course, it is about using the body wisely, without committing infraction. It is not about putting into practice a rough game, which could be sanctioned by the referee as a foul, generating free kicks or penalties for the rival team, in the worst case.
Always remember:
- The use of elbows is prohibited. Raising and hitting the elbows against an opponent will be sanctioned as a foul in favor of the opponent.
- You must win the position firmly. Maintain a good balance of your body, keep a low center of gravity.
- Your opponent will also use his body to try to move you and retain or regain position. You must be prepared and not fear physical contact.
- You have to be willing to fight for the ball.
Avoid taking too many steps before attempting to gain position from the opposing attacker using your body and choose instead to take a firm, quick step, at the right moment, when you notice your opponent at a disadvantage.
4. Intercept passes
The best way to regain possession of the ball without having to directly confront the opposing attacker can be achieved by intercepting a pass before it reaches its intended recipient.
The best players with the ability to intercept the ball combine quick feet with the ability to anticipate the play. They are players who develop an instinct to know where the ball will go in the next movement. They can read their opponent’s eyes and body language, deciphering their plans.
5. Train specifically to steal balls
You can develop your skills as a defender by participating in an exercise in which 5 players are positioned on the playing field forming a star. In the center, you can locate yourself, fulfilling defensive functions. The 5 footballers will make passes and you must try to get the ball. Some variants for this exercise require each player not to touch the ball more than twice, to play with one touch, to be closer, further away, etc.
You can use your body to gain position, you can intercept passes, you can train your horizontal movement… Your objective will be to regain possession of the ball .
With this exercise you can gradually learn to read the body language and the gaze of your rivals, improving your ability to get the ball.
Conclution
Just as it is important to have good forwards, with the ability to resolve in front of the opposite door, or midfielders with the ability to transfer the ball, having good defenders in the team is equally necessary.
Interrupting the opposing team’s possession of the ball is not only essential to prevent them from reaching their own door. Many goal plays have their origin in a counterattack after a timely steal of the ball, so your team can be greatly favored if you train, develop and improve your skills as a defense.
References
- Best Techniques for Stealing the Ball in Soccer, iSPORT Football [Revised April 2016].
