This blog post continues to elaborate on passing techniques that you would have read about earlier, but with a special focus on executing long-range passes. We start with simple ground passes across the field. Be on your toes and practise passing, controlling, and passing back in groups of two. The first touch is very important while receiving; pay attention and play so you can smoothly pass the ball back in the second touch. Alternate/use both your feet to improve versatility while passing.

Once you’re comfortable with this, move on to the next exercise. It is similar, but uses high balls instead of ground passes. This is slightly more difficult as you have to cushion the ball in the first touch in order to control it effectively. Pay attention to your non-kicking foot – it should be facing the right direction when you kick/pass the ball. Your arms can be spread out while you do this.

Next, practise the same ground passes as before but by introducing two players in the middle, who will support the passes. This adds an element of coordination and team play which is crucial in a sport like football. It is also important to progress from two touch to one touch while doing this passing exercise. Repeat this supporting formation using high balls as well.

The last part of this training is focused on game situations, to get you performance-ready in the shortest possible time. Get into a 5 and 2 formation, wherein 5 attackers try to pass the ball and score, while 2 defenders try to intercept and disrupt them. While doing this, also practise change of direction (receiving from one direction and passing in another direction) to enhance your adaptability and flexibility on field.

Practise these drills well, so it helps you understand the nuances of passing, assisting you in taking those split-second decisions on the ground. It’s all about the right action, right moment, right time. In the next post, you will get to learn a fundamental skill in football that gives you mobility on the field – dribbling the ball.