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Because it is so popular all over the world, it is no surprise that people everywhere have an interest in learning everything about soccer they can. Try spending some time learning more about it before you play. Continue reading to get some great tips for improving your play.

You should not try taking the ball to the goal unless you are in a good position. If you are in trouble, find someone who is open. Pass them the ball right away instead of trying to run to the goal by yourself.

When it comes to soccer, you should take advantage of any opportunity you have to practice and sharpen your skills. Take your ball wherever you go so you can get some practice in. You can also move the ball with your feet while walking from place to place.

Lofted balls are difficult to keep control over. Low passes should be made and you should whip the ball if you need to pass to other people when defenders get near. Lofted balls are better for long passes through an empty area.

Create a pattern by ball crossing on the same side for three or four plays. The opposing team will recognize what you are doing and be ready for your movement. Then, you can take them by surprise and glean some extra seconds when you either don't cross or cross going the other way.

Pretend that you are planning to kick the ball to another player when a defender approaches you. This should cause them to pause momentarily, which will give you a few extra seconds to decide what you want to do. The more animated you are, the better it will work.

The element of surprise can be one of your best weapons when playing soccer. Dribble to the right and pass to the left. Defenders might not anticipate such a move, and your teammates will thus find an opening. Although these moves may initially surprise your teammates, they will eventually get used to this style.

Don't only play soccer outside. It will help you keep your skills from becoming rusty, even though it is played on a smaller field. The smaller field will force you to improve your ball control skills, and you'll need to make faster decisions. When spring comes, you'll be ready to take the field outdoors.

Make sure you're practicing with your weak foot, too. The other team can get the ball if you spend too much time switching the ball to your strong foot. Learning how to use both feet for shooting makes you a better player and asset to the team.

Always wear the correct shoes when you play soccer. Tennis shoes and football cleats are not acceptable at all. Choosing the wrong shoes may lead to injury.

Run three miles every day if you want to keep your cardiovascular system in check. Your cardiovascular fitness is extremely important in a game like soccer that demands constant running. You can build your stamina and endurance by running on a daily basis for at least three miles. To keep your routine from become boring, choose different locations in which to run.

Watching pro-level soccer on TV can assist you with learning more about soccer. It shows you the rules and the way to properly play the game. While this can't replace practice time, it is a very important element of improving your game and helps reinforce what you're learning on the field.

While it may seem that soccer is less physical than football, that is simply not true. Don't be hesitant to make some contact. Playing a physical game doesn't make you a dirty player. Understand that actually aiming to kick an opponent is playing dirty; however, contact alone is not. Get over any fear of getting physical. Always protect your legs by wearing soccer pads.

Since this article has helped you learn more about soccer, it should be easy to understand why it is enjoyed by both players and spectators. You just need to understand the game's nuances. With the information that was shared with you in the above article, you should better understand the popularity of soccer.