Soccer Ball Control: 5 Drills You Can Do Alone
Ball control is the foundation of football. The more comfortable you are on the ball, the more time you have to look up, pass and make decisions. And you can practise alone with just a ball and a bit of space.
Five solo drills
- Toe taps: tap the top of the ball alternately with each foot, staying light on your feet. 30 seconds per set.
- Inside-outside touches: push the ball side to side between your feet using the inside and outside of the foot.
- Wall passes: pass against a wall and control the return with one touch. Use both feet.
- Cone dribbling: weave through bottles or cones, keeping the ball close.
- Juggling: keep the ball in the air with your feet, thighs and head. Start by counting touches and try to beat your record.
Practice tips
- Use both feet, especially your weaker one.
- Keep your head up as you improve.
- Practise for 15 to 20 minutes, a few days a week.
- Gradually increase speed once your control is solid.
Why it matters
Good touches turn a hard pass into an easy one. It's the quickest way to improve your game.
