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🎯
Technique

Goal Kicks

Perfect your goal kick technique for both short build-up and long distribution.

Goal kicks are now a critical tactical element rather than just a restart. With the law change allowing short passes inside the box, goalkeepers must be comfortable with varied approaches. This includes technical execution of different kick types, decision-making about when to play short versus long, and executing under pressure from pressing opponents.

Key Points

  • 1Master the technique for both driven goal kicks and lofted clearances
  • 2Develop consistency with your placement to find target areas or teammates
  • 3Understand when short goal kicks suit your team's tactics
  • 4Practice under pressure from opponents pressing your goal kicks
  • 5Communicate clearly with defenders about the goal kick plan

Training Drills

  • ✓Goal kick target practice to different zones and distances
  • ✓Short build-up pattern work with defenders
  • ✓Goal kicks under pressure from pressing forwards
  • ✓Driven versus lofted kick technique comparison
  • ✓Tactical goal kick scenarios matching your team's system

Learn From the Pros

Ederson's long-range goal kicks to start attacks quicklyAlisson Becker's accuracy finding full-backs in spaceAaron Ramsdale's comfortable short goal kicks under pressureMarc-André ter Stegen's varied goal kick options

Ask FootballGPT

“How do I kick the ball further on goal kicks?”

“When should I play short goal kicks?”

“How do I handle pressure on short goal kicks?”

“What's the best technique for accurate long goal kicks?”

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the technique for powerful, long goal kicks?

Approach at a slight angle, plant your non-kicking foot alongside the ball, strike through the bottom half of the ball with your laces, and follow through fully. Lean back slightly to achieve the desired trajectory. Power comes from technique and follow-through, not just leg strength.

How do I decide whether to play short or long on goal kicks?

Follow your team's tactical plan first. Generally, play short when you have numerical superiority and time to build. Go long when heavily pressed, when trying to exploit space in behind, or when your team excels at winning second balls. Context and game plan determine the choice.

How should I handle opponents pressing my goal kicks?

Stay calm and stick to the plan. If playing short, ensure your defenders are positioned correctly and communication is clear. If opponents press aggressively, going long might be safer. Never rush under pressure as that leads to errors.

Can I improve my goal kick accuracy?

Absolutely, through consistent practice. Set up target zones or cones and track your success rate. Video yourself to check your technique. Work on both feet if possible. Accuracy improves with repetition and feedback, just like any other skill.

Related Guides

⚽Distribution🎯Build-Up Play and Passing📢Communication and Organising

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goal kicksgoalkeeper restartsshort goal kickslong distributionbuild-up playgoalkeeper tactics

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Goal Kicks - Goalkeeper Guide | FootballGPT