5 Football Drills to Greatly Improve Your First Touch
A footballer’s first touch is an essential skill that separates good players from truly exceptional ones. It refers to the player’s ability to control the ball effectively and quickly upon receiving it, setting themselves up for the next move or pass. That said, a well-executed first touch can make all the difference in creating scoring opportunities and maintaining possession of the ball.
Now, are you trying to improve your football first touch? If so, here are some drills you can employ:
1. Wall Ball Drill
The wall ball drill is a simple yet effective way to improve your first touch. All you need is a wall and a ball to practice this technique.
To get started, stand about 3 meters away from the wall and pass the ball towards it. Focus on controlling the ball as it comes back to you. Try to utilise different parts of your feet, such as the inside, outside, and laces, to control the ball. Also, practice this drill with both feet to develop a strong and consistent first touch.
2. Juggling
Juggling is an excellent drill to improve your first touch, as it requires constant ball control and manipulation.
Start by juggling the ball with your dominant foot, then switch to your non-dominant foot. As you become more comfortable, incorporate both feet and various parts of your body, such as your thighs and chest, to juggle the ball. Juggling helps improve your overall ball control, touch, and coordination, translating to a better first touch on the field.
3. Cone Drills
Cone drills are great for improving your first touch as they force you to control the ball in tight spaces and at different angles.
To do this drill, set up a series of cones in a zigzag pattern and dribble the ball through the cones using your first touch to change direction quickly. Start slow and focus on keeping the ball close to your feet. As you become more comfortable, increase your speed and challenge yourself by using different parts of your feet to control the ball.
4. Passing and Receiving Drills
One of the most effective ways to improve your first touch is by practising with a teammate or coach.
So, set up two cones about 10-15 yards apart. One player passes the ball while the other player focuses on receiving and controlling the ball using their first touch. The receiver should aim to control the ball within a small area, ideally within one or two steps away from their initial position. This drill helps develop your ability to control the ball quickly and efficiently in a game-like situation.
5. Visualisation and Mental Training
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of mental training and visualisation in improving your first touch.
To master this, visualise yourself executing perfect first touches in various game situations. Focus on the feeling of controlling the ball effortlessly and the sound of the ball connecting with your foot. By mentally rehearsing these scenarios, you can train your brain to react more quickly and effectively when it’s time to perform on the field.
Conclusion
Improving your first touch in football requires consistent practice and dedication to developing your ball control and coordination. By incorporating these drills into your training routine, you can enhance your first touch and become a more effective and skilful player on the field. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep working on these drills and watch your first touch improve over time!
Focus Football Development is a soccer training program based in Sydney. We aim to cultivate, support, and guide football players and coaches of all ages and skill levels. If you are looking for private soccer coaching, work with us today!
