SSS Team, SSSPORTS.COM
Few moments in football compare to the thrill of striking the ball cleanly and watching it smash into the back of the net, followed by the heroic applause as your teammates cheer you on. However those moments are often few and far between for amateur players.
Whether you’re playing a weekend match or training to sharpen your skills, mastering different shooting techniques is key to becoming a reliable goal scorer. Success takes practice, patience and determination, but with the right approach, you can make every opportunity count.
Most goals are scored in and around the penalty box, often from corners, set pieces or quick attacking plays. That’s why your focus should be on creating chances and being ready to finish when the moment comes.
Here are some essential shooting techniques every striker should practice.
The Snap Header
This is one of the more difficult ways to head the ball as this requires you to redirect the path of the ball to beat the keeper.
- Judge the ball’s trajectory and position yourself square to the goal.
- Bend at the waist and thrust your upper body towards the ball.
- As the ball strikes your forehead, turn your head towards the goal. Remember, attack the ball rather than letting it hit you. Keep your eyes open to avoid taking a hit to the face.
- Aim to strike the ball above the midpoint to give your shot a downward trajectory, giving a better chance for the ball going over or straight into the keeper’s hands.
The Diving Header
This is all about precision timing. Too early or too late and you’ll miss.
- The key to this is pinpoint precision. Launch yourself forward as if you were diving into a pool.
- If the goal is to your right then use the right side of your head, or switch sides if it’s on the left.
- If you want the ball to go low then use your forehead. Use the top of your head if you want it to go high.
- Remember to cushion your landing.
Practice makes perfect, so start off practicing headers with a friend or teammate, throwing the ball in from the sidelines, increasing the tempo as you progress.
The Lob Shot
This shot is particularly useful when you’re in a one-on-one situation and the keeper rushes off his line to become the last line of defense.
- Get under the ball with your strike to slow down the ball’s momentum.
- After that, plant your non-shooting foot level with the ball.
- Use the tops of your toes to make contact and strike the underside of the ball.
- Keep the motion short and sharp and avoid following through.
The Volley
Often coming from a sloppy clearance or rebound from the opposing team, a volley is one of the most powerful ways to score. It requires the ball to be contacted perfectly in terms of power and placement.
- Focus on the ball’s trajectory as it comes towards you.
- Plant your non-shooting foot towards the goal.
- Your striking leg needs to move in a straight line to generate enough power.
- Turn your body as you strike the ball and follow through.
- Practice over and over again!
The Banana Free-Kick
One of the most iconic free-kicks in the history of football. This was made famous by Roberto Carlos when Brazil faced France in 1997 when he struck the ball to the right of the wall and the ball changed its trajectory mid-flight, resulting in a banana-shaped motion and hitting the back of the net.
- Focus on where you want to put the ball. Note the keeper’s position and where the defenders have created a wall. Find the gap you want to exploit.
- Adjust your distance and angle as per your preference. The best free-kicker takers have different techniques so find what works best for you.
- The part of the foot that you use determines the level of spin or curve. The protruding knuckle of your big toe will create more curve as it wraps around the ball. Your arch develops spin by rolling over the ball.
- Mastering a combination of both techniques will help you curve the ball around or over defenders.
Gear Up for Your Next Game
Improving your shooting technique is only part of the journey. The right gear makes a huge difference too. Explore the latest footballs, football kits and football shoes from the biggest brands. From grass pitches to artificial turf, find the right equipment to achieve the best performance. Hit the pitch in style before you show off your skills.
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