A coach must know how to teach ball control in soccer . Soccer is a game of the ball and feet. Most of the times, you have to get control of the ball by using your feet.

The more efficient you are in ball control, the better are your chances of winning the game.

Better ball control simply means that you will have the possession of the ball within the team most of the time, which will eventually discourage the opponent players and put you in an attacking position.

The Key Elements

If you want to know how to teach ball control in soccer, you must first understand its basic elements, which are as follows.

•  The first touch by the receiver of the ball is very important. Since the player has won the ball, the opponent player will definitely try to regain possession. Thus, the key element of a good ball control is to protect the ball from the very first touch with an objective not to give the opponent players another chance to regain possession.

Therefore, the first thing that you have to teach regarding the game tempo and ball handling in football is to show them how not to lose the possession of the ball right from the very first touch.

•  The second key element is obviously the next touch or touches. As a coach, it is your responsibility to teach the players about making instant decision. Based on the situation on the field, the receiver may like to pass the ball to one of his or her teammates, keep dribbling the same, or attempt shooting or scoring a goal.

The best strategy here is to play the ball into available space so that the next touch could be made effectively. It will also help the players keep the momentum and give them enough time to decide their next step.

When it comes to teaching cues for dribbling in soccer, you should pay special attention on making the first touch on the ball. Therefore, while you are having your players practice the different dribbling drills, you should try to focus more on ball control.

For example, the mental ability of the player plays an important role here. If the players have the confidence and are able to concentrate, it will not be very difficult for them to keep the possession of the ball.

Therefore, while you are learning how to teach ball control in soccer , you should also work out a plan on how you are going to develop confidence among your players.