When you're in a high-pressure situation during a soccer game, it's easy to forget proper shooting form, causing you to miss the goal entirely. The solution is to practice your shooting often that your technique becomes unconscious. Then, when it counts most, all you have to do is relax and allow your well-practiced body movements to take control.
Function
To kick a soccer ball properly, place your support foot next to the ball, about 12 inches away, as you approach it from a slight angle. Draw back your kicking leg and bring it forward so the laced portion of your shoe strikes the center of the ball while your toes point downward. It's vital to contact the ball directly in its center. If you hit the ball below the center, the ball will rise higher than you expect, perhaps causing it to go over the goal.
Make a Target
If you're having trouble aiming at the center of the ball, use a permanent marker or sticker as a target. Place the ball on the ground so that the target is exactly at the midline of the ball. Watch the ball while you kick it to ensure you contact it at exactly the right spot. While it might be tempting to shoot for the upper corners of the net, if you routinely hit it over the goal, aim for the lower corners to keep your shot low.
Expert Insight
If you're still having trouble keeping the ball down when you shoot, ask a coach or an experienced player to watch you. You might have some flaw in your form that is causing you to hit the ball too low. For example, if you place your support foot too far behind, you make it harder to contact the ball directly at the center. If this is your problem, focus on planting your support foot exactly parallel to the ball.
Practice
The best way to improve your accuracy is to practice shooting as often as possible. Set the ball close to the goal and aim at a particular area of the net. For example, visualize hitting the ball into the lower corners, near the support posts. Practice kicking the ball accurately and at a high speed. If you notice the ball travels too high, pay closer attention to the spot on the ball where your foot makes contact.
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