Expert Football > Training > Soccer Strategy > Dribbling
Dribbling is the way players move the ball from one point to another. Dribbling is not just beating an opponent in a man-to-man confrontation. Moving with the ball in itself provides advantages.
General principles
Running into space
If you have the ball and there's free space ahead of you it could mean one of two things.
The opposing defenders have either withdrawn or are out of position.
By carrying the ball forward, you are stretching out the enemy defense and opening up the game.
So, anytime there's open space in front of you, take it!
Creating passing angles
Dribbling across the field usually creates passing opportunities.
Midfielders need to use this to their advantage by scanning the field while they dribble.
Always keep your head up unless there's pressure on you.
Attracting opponents
When you dribble back or away from your marker, you are attracting pressure and drawing out defenders.
This is often used by midfielders and makes the defending team less compact.
Think of a midfielder who controls the ball with his back to goal.
As a defender runs after him, the midfielder dribbles left then suddenly turns and passes the ball to the right.
Beating opponents
Talented dribblers can beat defenders in 1v1.
By changing direction and/or speed the dribbler can deceive his opponent and gain an advantageous position over him.
Good dribbling can cause problems for any defense.
Trying to beat a defender is risky and should only be done when you're trying to create a shot on goal or out on the flanks.
Near the sideline, dribbling can work wonders and it's not as dangerous when possession is lost there.