How to Do a Chip Shot in Soccer

Knowing how to chip a soccer ball over a goalie's head gives you and your team an additional weapon on offense. Whether your team is attempting a dead-ball shot or the keeper is charging toward you, perfecting the chip shot can almost guarantee a goal. Follow the steps below to learn how to arc your soccer ball and have it dip into the goal over the keeper's head.

Things You'll Need

• Soccer ball

Instructions

1. Approach the soccer ball from a slight angle. You can do this either while in a dead-ball situation or when the ball is rolling toward you.

2. Place your non-kicking foot around the side of the ball, about a distance of 6 inches. Use your kicking leg to swing. A shorter back swing can give you a better placement.

3. Angle your kicking toe down, connecting with the ball right below the center. Striking the ball close to the ground with a downward driving motion can give the ball a lot of backspin, similar to a chip shot in golf. Slice the ball from underneath for extreme backspin.

4. Position your foot to act as a wedge between the ball and the ground. Lock your kicking knee impact.

5. Straighten your knee to direct the ball toward the desired direction after you connect with the soccer ball. A chip shot is more like a short jab than a swing with follow-through.

6. Lean back to increase the ball's lift. The more you lean back, the greater the ball can arc during the chip shot.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use the chip shot in the middle of the field, not just when you're trying to score.

• When chipping the ball to your teammate, make sure your chip has backspin. This can give your teammates a chance to control the ball better.

• Avoid leaning over the ball upon impact. You want to remain straight up or lean slightly backward.