Control in Soccer: Simple Ways to Up Your Game

When you think of great soccer moments, you’ll notice a common thread – the player who keeps the ball glued to their foot while dictating the pace. That's control, and it’s more than just fancy footwork. Good control lets you stay on the ball, avoid tackles, and make smarter passes. If you tighten up this skill, you’ll feel more confident in every match.

Why Ball Control Is the Foundation

Control is the first thing a defender looks for when deciding whether to press. A player with tight control can turn swiftly, shield the ball, and create space. It also affects your teammates: when you hold onto the ball, others can move into better positions instead of scrambling for loose passes. In short, control = less chaos, more opportunities.

There are three parts to solid control: first touch, body position, and awareness. The first touch is the instant you receive the ball – a good touch sets you up for the next move. Body position means leaning slightly over the ball, keeping your centre of gravity low. Awareness is about knowing where opponents are before you even touch the ball.

Practical Drills to Boost Your Control

Here are a few drills you can add to your routine. All of them need minimal equipment and can be done on a regular pitch or even a small yard.

1. One‑Touch Wall Pass: Stand about two meters from a wall, kick the ball against it, and receive it with a single touch. Alternate feet and try to keep the ball low. This forces you to perfect your first touch under pressure.

2. Cone Weave with Close‑Control Dribbling: Set up a line of cones about a meter apart. Dribble through using small, quick touches, keeping the ball within an inch of your foot. Focus on staying relaxed and using the inside of your foot.

3. Shield and Turn: Pair up with a teammate or a friend. One player acts as a defender, lightly pressing while the other shields the ball with their body. Practice turning away from the pressure and releasing a pass with accuracy.

Do each drill for 5‑10 minutes, three times a week. You’ll notice a steadier first touch and quicker decision‑making on the field.

Another tip is to watch professional matches with a control‑focused lens. Notice how midfielders receive long balls, cushion them with the sole, and pivot instantly. Replicate those movements in your own practice.

Finally, remember that control isn’t a static skill. It evolves with your fitness, confidence, and the type of surface you play on. Keep challenging yourself with new drills, vary the speed, and stay aware of your surroundings.

Mastering control gives you the freedom to play your own style – whether you prefer weaving through tight spaces or launching quick counter‑attacks. Start incorporating these simple habits today, and you’ll see the difference in every touch, pass, and shot.

Do shoes make a difference in performance in soccer/football?

Sports shoes are an important part of the soccer/football player’s equipment as they can make a great difference in their performance. The right kind of shoes can help the player to move faster, have better control over the ball and increase their overall skill level. Furthermore, certain types of shoes provide more stability and support, which can help to reduce the risks of injuries. The different types of shoes can be chosen depending on the surface of the field, the weather conditions and the player’s needs.