So you want to improve your defense skills? As with most things in life, practice makes perfect, and by following the steps outlined below, you, too, could become a world-class defender.
Being a defender can be a difficult at times, with even the most minor mistakes punishable harshly. And, because defenders typically work as a unit, you could be having a fantastic game, but if your teammates are having a nightmare, you will look terrible as well.
Here are the top tips for becoming a better soccer defender.
This should go without saying, but you'd be surprised how few players keep a healthy diet. A healthy body promotes a healthy mind, so eat fresh foods like pasta, fish and drink plenty of water.
A healthy diet helps you stay focused, reduces your risk of injury, and can help your team's engine run for the full 90 minutes. Ignore what you put into your body at your own risk.
While the days of a center defense being a gigantic giant only fit to kick opponents in the balls are thankfully over, being strong on the ball is still important.
Weightlifting, toning, and bulking up with the right foods can drastically improve your game. Build those muscles for anything from a strong shoulder charge to becoming an immovable force on defense. Defenders take a lot of hits, so getting your body ready is a big help.
Modern defenders are quick and agile athletes. Your job requires quickness and agility. As a center forward, with fewer target men on the field, speed reigns supreme.
And if you don't keep up, you'll fall behind, so speed up and accelerate. Sprint training increases your movement speed, allowing you to beat everyone to the ball. Consider Rio Ferdinand, who rarely made a tackle because he was always the first to the ball.
As a defender, your primary responsibility is to keep your goal secure. The occasional goal, as well as fancy passing, is fantastic. But, in the end, you only have one task: keep a clean sheet.
If you're under pressure with the ball, get it out of play and into the stands to give yourself and your team time to regain position and concentration.
On the soccer field, there is a time for heroics and a time for practicality. The most practical defender is one who understands when to let go of the ball. You're not there to run 60 yards, throw 50 yards, or kick a field goal.
Similarly to getting the ball into the stands, drawing a foul is a good way to recover the ball or get everyone back into position. Place yourself between your opponent and the ball, encouraging them to foul you.
If you're jumping for the ball, back into your opponent to entice them to get on your back. A tactical foul is an important skill to learn; getting a foul or taking a player out when things look dangerous can be the most effective way to stop play.
That is it for this article we hope you enjoy reading and also gained some valuable information. If you would like us to write another article like this one, don't forget to leave your thoughts below in the comment section.
