Developing the skill to perform certain soccer tricks to beat defenders takes time, patience and practice. Not everyone can learn all the professionals' tricks, but you can try different tricks and see which ones improve your game. With increasing practice and skill, you might even develop your own tricks someday.
The Cruyff Turn
Netherlands ex-professional Johan Cruyff was well-known for his speed and acceleration with the ball, and the pace at which he turned with the ball. Perform the Cryuff turn by dribbling the ball forward. Plant your left foot near the ball and fake a shot with your right foot. Instead of shooting, use your right foot to chop the ball behind your body and under your planted left foot. Turn away from your defender and accelerate in a different direction.
Zidane Turn
The Zidane turn confuses the defender by quickly switching the direction of the ball without you performing any drastic movements. Begin by facing the ball, with the ball a yard away from your feet. Launch your body off your non-kicking foot and use your kicking foot to drag the ball toward your body. Upon dragging, spin your body 90 degrees in the same direction while you shield the ball. The second part of the spin commences as the ball comes toward the non-kicking foot and away from your defender. Bring the ball back to your strong foot and return to your original position.
Stepover
Portuguese international soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo is best known for his acceleration and lightning-fast feet, and for his stepover ability. Begin the stepover by dribbling forward, keeping the ball no more than 2 yards ahead. Plant your right foot and swing your left foot over the ball in a counterclockwise direction. Your foot will go around the inside of the ball to the outside of the ball. Plant your left foot and accelerate away from your defender.
Dummy Turn
The dummy turn is performed when a defender is closing you down quickly; the objective is to beat your defender with speed. Begin by checking toward the ball, drawing your defender in. Anticipate the pass and let the ball run through your legs instead. Turn and accelerate in the opposite direction, beating your defender in the process. Avoid turning before the ball as you may lose possession and sight of your defender should he counter your move.
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