Receiving

When you are receiving the ball and a defender is on your back, turning with the inside of your foot is an effective technique to deceive your opponent. It works by receiving and turning in a single motion in order to keep the ball protected. First receive with the inside of your foot, and then glide the ball to the outside on the turn to really sell the fake. And remember to look over your shoulder to see the space you are moving into next. Turning with the inside of your foot can really fool a defender when executed well.

Turning with the outside of your foot is an ideal technique when you’re looking to receive with a player on your back, like a forward. This skill involves receiving with the inside of your foot as you turn and gliding the ball to the outside in a fluid motion. While executing, it’s key to keep your body balanced and ready for challenge from oncoming defenders. You can add extra deception by dipping your shoulder and stepping to the opposite side of the direction that you turn. Master this technique and you’ll have the skills in place to really guard the ball in a game.

If you want greater control of first touch with your chest when the ball’s arriving in the air and a defender’s on your back, this is a great technique. First you need to think ahead about where you want the ball to land. Then turn while receiving and keep your chest big to maximize surface area. Stay wide and balanced so you can direct the ball exactly where you want it to go. Using this skill on the field will help you not just stop the ball with your chest, but enable you to have greater control over the ball than ever before.

The back foot 180 is a great technique for shifting direction fast—horizontally or vertically—and allows you to dribble away after receiving. Start by looking over your shoulder, stay low and balanced, and receive with your back foot while turned halfway in the direction you want to go. It’s key to maintain control of the ball at all times and have a clear view of what’s in front so you are ready to transition to your next move.