Timing the kick
- Press just before the ball reaches your striker’s foot: the leg swings through a full arc from behind.
- A ball at knee or hip height flies upwards: the best moment to lob the keeper.
- A ball on the ground goes low and fast: use it to get past the opponent’s players rather than straight at the goal.
Defending
- When a low ball rolls towards your goal, do not press: a jumping keeper lets it through underneath. Standing legs stop it on their own.
- If the ball is behind your striker, press once: he jumps over it to get goal-side. If it is right at his heels, he first steps away a little.
- Jumping helps against high balls: the head and body block as well.
Adapt to the conditions
- Ice: players slide, so use short, rare presses.
- Sand: the ball stops quickly, so strike from close range.
- Low gravity: jumps last a long time, so press earlier.
- Beach ball: it floats, so wait for it to come down.
- Heavy ball: only a clean strike sends it far.
- Small goals: get closer before shooting; big goals can be hit from far away.
FAQ
What is the most common mistake?
Pressing non-stop. Your keeper jumps too and leaves the goal open.
