How to Dribble Around Defenders in Soccer

Dribbling is one of the more basic parts of the game of soccer. Dribbling is something you can do by yourself, or at practice. However, when defenders come in to play, their sole mission is to take the ball from you. You must become good at dribbling around the defender to become a successful soccer player.

Things You'll Need

• Soccer ball, defenders

Instructions

The art of deception

1. There are three basic paths to get past your defender: left, right, and through the legs. Left and right are the recommended routes, as kicking it between the defender's legs is the highest risk. Make sure to keep your head up to see where the rest of the field is aligned.

2. Keep the ball as close to you as possible. Making constant touches is not necessary, but feel free to make as many touches as you need to keep the ball in your control, rather than your defender's possession.

3. Use a quick dribble on the outside of your foot when you are passing the defender. If you are passing on the left, use the outside of your left foot to dribble. Your body and leg put a distance between the defender and the ball, making it more difficult for the defender to steal it from you.

4. Always keep yourself between the defender and the ball. If the ball is in between the two of you, it is very easy for the defender to take it from you. Keep the ball to yourself, close to you, and make touches as needed to keep it in your possession.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you are under control. If you are out of control, you stand to have the ball stolen from you.

• Practice makes perfect. Don't try anything fancy without practicing it first.