How to Play Forward in Soccer

When you play forward in soccer, you become a striker--part of the attacking group of players who will penetrate the defense of the opposing team and score goals. You will be responsible for maneuvering the ball from midfield into the goal of the opponent. You could either be on the wings or in the center forward position. Many famous and legendary players in soccer have a played in the forward position.

Instructions

1. Play to the needs of your position. If you are in the wings, your job is to receive the ball from midfield, move it forward along the outside edges of the field and then get it back to the center so that the player in the center forward position can take it in to score.

2. Position yourself at midfield at the beginning of play. Move forward with the ball towards the opposing team's goal. This will enable you to fall back when the ball comes back towards midfield, gain control of it and go on the offensive again.

3. Establish a brave, tough and aggressive attitude. You must always try to get a shot at the goal. Your combined offensive is what will win the game for you. While you should always attempt to get to the right position to score, go for it anyway if you sense you are outnumbered and about to lose control of the ball. Being aggressive doesn't mean breaking rules or hurting opponents--it means being assertive and confident with the game you are playing.

4. Communicate and pass the ball along to other players in better positions to score. Soccer is a team sport and you need to play it as such. If you are in the midfield, pass the ball to the wings who will take it along the periphery of the field towards the goal.

5. Exert pressure on the defense of the opposing team. Constant pressure will wear them out and open up opportunities for your team to score.

Tips & Warnings

• As a forward player, you should switch position with other players in the same position. If you are a winger, switch with center forward at some point in the game.

• If you are playing in the wings, stay very wide and resist the temptation to participate in the battle in the center position. Your position has the responsibility of pulling the defenders toward the outside of the field and opening up space in the middle so that the center forwards to push ahead.