Your interest in soccer is clear, but to really improve as a player, you must continue the learning process and follow this advice. Soccer is a lot of fun, but it does require patience and effort. This article was written with the sole purpose of improving your soccer game, so don’t let it go to waste!

It is against the rules to use any part of your hands or arms, from shoulder to fingertips, to control a soccer ball that is in play. You can use your feet, knees, thighs, stomach, chest and head. Be careful though. A head shot can hurt and you cannot control the ball well with your knees.

An important skill to become familiar with is called the “Outside Elastico.” This is a trick that can help you get inside when you’re dealing in the flanks. Practice this approach by putting a cone, shoe, or bag on the ground. Begin the maneuver about five running steps behind the opponent. Then, dribble towards the cone. As you get closer to the cone, tap the ball outside then tap it in quick motion back to the inner part. Outside touching is the move that fools opponents. The second touch has to be bigger.

You can usually make a defender freeze for a few seconds by faking a shot. If you see a defender closing in on you, posture yourself as if you were about to kick the ball and make a long pass. The defender should stop and anticipate the pass you are faking.

Soccer should be played as a team. Always remember this. Being selfish and taking the entire game on your shoulders will most likely end up in your team losing and the dissatisfaction of your teammates towards you. Make your moves with the good of the whole team in mind. You will need to sacrifice some personal recognition in order to further the goals of the team.

You should apply these methods to become a better soccer player. Remember that you can always learn more, so keep pushing yourself. Keep practicing your new skills and become a great soccer player.