How to Defend Against the Dribble in Soccer
Every player on the soccer field will encounter an opponent dribbling the soccer ball at some point during a match. If you're a defender, you must learn how to defend against the dribble, since you're so close to the net.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Keep your knees bent when trying to defend against a dribble. Maintain your body at a lower center of gravity so that you can change direction quickly. Put your weight on the tips of your toes, as this can also help you to move quicker.
-
2
Determine your best line of attack. If you're closer to the net, give yourself enough room to maneuver and watch the dribbler's feet and body language so that you can guess the direction from which he'll attack the goal. The last thing you want is for the opponent to dribble right past you and have an open shot to the goal.
-
-
3
Contain your opponent until help arrives. Stay between the dribbler and the goal. You may need to move laterally with the player. Close down the passing lanes once you're able to contain the dribbler.
-
4
Force your opponent toward the sidelines or toward one of your teammates. This can deny the dribbler space to move the ball around and choices on what to do with the ball. If you know the attacker has a dominant foot, you can also position yourself so he has to use more of his weaker foot. This can cause him to make a mistake, allowing you to capitalize and take away the ball.
-
5
Tackle the soccer ball away from the opponent. Use this maneuver only if you have a greater chance of getting the ball. Tackling the ball away is best used when the opponent dribbles the ball too far away from her body.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you try to jab the soccer ball away from the dribbler, he could elude your move, get past you and close in on your goalkeeper.
Play one-on-one with a teammate so you can both practice your soccer skills. Your teammate can practice dribbling and protecting the ball while you work on your defense.
Perfecting tackling takes practice, since you don't want to be called for a foul if you get part of your opponent's ankles. This could cause the other team to receive a free kick, giving them a better shot at scoring.
