How to Slide Tackle in Soccer

A soccer slide tackle is a sideways slide that attempts to knock the ball away from your opponent's feet. You use it as a last-ditch effort if your opponent is going to get past you.

Things You'll Need

• Soccer Balls
• Soccer balls

Instructions

1. Commit yourself to the slide, deciding whether you'll simply be kicking the ball away or trying to gain possession.

2. Slide on one side of your body.

3. Lead with one leg. If you're sliding on your left side, lead with your right leg, extending your foot toward the ball, while the left leg is bent at a 90-degree angle.

4. Be sure to slide only leaning partway down on the side of your leg; sliding in a more upright position will allow you to spring up after the slide.

5. Make contact with the ball first. If you hit your opponent first, you'll be called for a foul.

6. Knock the ball a long way if you're sending it out of play, or tap it more gently if you're attempting to gain possession.

7. Using your left arm and left leg, quickly rise from the turf and be on your way.

Tips & Warnings

• You'll discover that you're more comfortable sliding on a particular side of your body, but you should always practice using both sides.

• It's a good idea to learn to slide tackle on a wet day, when the ground is soft.

• Bumps, scrapes and bruises are all likely when you use the slide tackle.

• In addition to injury to yourself, you risk hurting your opponent with an ill-placed slide.