5 Things You Need to Know About Slide Tackling In Soccer

1. Target the Ball

When slide tackling during a soccer game, your goal is to get the ball, not your opponent. If you have contact with your opponent before touching the ball, the referee will call a foul, likely a yellow or red card. When you're preparing to slide tackle, keep your eyes on the ball. Forwards are excellent at giving the illusion they're playing the ball to the left or right when in reality, the ball never touches their feet. If you go into a slide tackle watching your opponent's body, you're much more likely to slide into the other player's ankles, potentially causing serious injury.

2. Slide Sparingly

Slide tackles should be used only in desperate situations. You're much less effective as a defender on the ground than on your feet. Never attempt to slide tackle a forward if you're the last line of defense. If the forward beats you, your goalie is put into a vulnerable one-on-one situation. Be aware of your position on the field before sliding. Ideally, slide tackles should only happen near the sideline and the ball should never be played into the center of the field.

3. Timing is Everything

Correctly timing a slide tackle prevents injuries and fouls and increases your chances of stealing the ball. Wait until the ball is a couple of feet out in front of your opponent rather than right at his feet before sliding into it. If you have the opportunity to intercept the soccer ball while remaining on your feet, take it. Slide tackles might look spectacular if they're executed correctly, but they're rarely a smart move defensively.

4. Always From the Side

Never attempt to slide tackle your opponent from the front or behind. Even if you manage to get the ball first, the referee will likely see the move as a dangerous physical attack. Run alongside your opponent until you see enough space between the ball and your opponent's feet. Slide into the ball with your legs locked and knees slightly bent. Once your foot makes contact with the ball, swing your leg, hooking the ball away from your opponent.

5. Decide to Slide

Once you decide to slide tackle, don't hesitate. Half-committing to a slide tackle often results in injury. Slide tackling requires precision, but the success of a slide tackle is dependent on the mentality of the defender. Defenders who are nervous or scared to tackle are at risk of missing the opponent entirely or getting hurt. You have to go into the slide tackle with the mentality that you will get the ball.