Elastico Soccer Move
Adding the elastico soccer move to your arsenal of tricks can be quite the advantage. In addition to moves like the rabona, the elastico can fake out defenders in a single move.
What is the elastico? The elastico, also known as the “flip-flap” or “snake”, is a dribbling move that involves quickly flicking the ball with the outside of your foot and then cutting it back sharply with the inside of your foot.
The Elastico is a versatile move that can be used in a variety of situations on the field.
Whether you are trying to beat a defender one-on-one or looking to create space for a shot on goal, the Elastico can be an effective tool in your soccer toolbelt.
While it may take some practice to master, the Elastico is a move that can help take your game to the next level and impress your opponents and teammates.
Now, let’s see how you can perform it on the field…
How to Perform the Elastico Soccer Move
The Elastico soccer move is a flashy dribbling technique that can be used to deceive defenders and create space on the field. Essentially, it’s made up of two quick touches with the same foot. Here are the steps to perform the elastico soccer move:
- Start by dribbling the ball with your dominant foot, and take a step diagonally in the direction you want to fake out the defender.
- Position the outside of your foot on the inside of the ball.
- Make soft contact with the outer part of your foot.
- In one fluid motion, use the front of your foot to quickly bring the ball back inside.
- Accelerate away from the defender with the ball at your feet.
It’s important to practice this move slowly at first, and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the technique.
Remember to keep your body low to the ground and use quick, sharp movements to execute the elastico soccer move effectively. As you advance, try incorporating the body feint prior to the elastico. This takes a great amount of balance and soccer skills!
In addition to practicing the Elastico soccer move on your own, you can also try incorporating it into small-sided games and scrimmages to improve your ability to use the move in game situations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Performing the Elastico Soccer Move
Performing the elastico soccer move can be challenging, especially for beginners. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when performing the elastico soccer move:
- Not practicing enough: Simple enough. The elastico soccer move requires a lot of practice to master. By dedicating some time to this move, you’ll be able to make progress and eventually use it in a game.
- Not using the correct foot placement: Using the correct foot placement is crucial when performing the elastico soccer move. Make sure to place your non-dominant foot slightly behind the ball and your dominant foot slightly in front of it. This will help you execute the move smoothly.
- Not shifting your weight properly: Shifting your weight properly is essential when performing the elastico soccer move. Make sure to shift your weight onto your non-dominant foot before executing the move. This will help you create a better angle for the move.
- Using too much force: The elastico requires you to make the move in one fluid motion. If you use too much force, the soccer ball will get out in front of you.
- Not keeping your eyes on the ball: Keeping your eyes on the ball is crucial when performing the elastico soccer move. If you don’t keep your eyes on the ball, you won’t be able to execute the move properly.
Advanced Tips for Mastering the Elastico Soccer Move
Here are some advanced tips that will help you take your elastico to the next level:
- Stay low and balanced: To execute the elastico move quickly and effectively, you need to stay low and balanced. Keep your center of gravity low and your body weight evenly distributed between both feet. This will help you change direction quickly and maintain your balance throughout the move.
- Use your body feints: The elastico is a deceptive move, and it requires you to use your body feints to fool your opponent. Use your upper body to fake a move in one direction while simultaneously shifting your weight and pushing the ball in the opposite direction with your foot.
- Practice your timing: Timing is everything when it comes to the elastico. You need to execute the move at the right moment to catch your opponent off-guard. Practice the move over and over again until you get the timing just right.
- Vary your approach: Mix up your approach to the elastico to keep your opponents guessing. Use different angles, speeds, and variations of the move to keep your opponents off-balance and unsure of your next move.
- Be confident: Believe in your abilities and trust your instincts when it comes to this quick dribbling move. With practice and perseverance, you can master this move and use it to great effect on the field.
Players Who’ve Mastered the Elastico
These pro players have put in countless hours of practice to perfect their technique and execute the move flawlessly on the field.
Here are a few players who are known for their mastery of the elastico:
- Ronaldinho: The Brazilian legend is widely regarded as one of the best dribblers in the history of the game. He was known for his creativity and flair on the ball, and the elastico was one of his signature moves.
- Cristiano Ronaldo: The Portuguese superstar is known for his incredible speed and skill on the ball. He has used the elastico to great effect throughout his career, often leaving defenders in his wake as he cuts inside from the wing.
- Neymar Jr.: The Brazilian forward is one of the most skillful players in the world, and the elastico is just one of the many moves in his arsenal. He has used it to great effect for both club and country, often leaving defenders in his wake as he cuts inside from the left and right flanks.
Conclusion
The “elastico” soccer move is a highly effective and entertaining dribbling technique that requires skill, speed, and agility.
The move has become increasingly popular in the world of soccer, thanks to the likes of Brazilian legends such as Rivelino and Ronaldinho, who have used it to great effect on the field.
While it may take some time and practice to master, the elastico is a move that can help players create space, beat defenders, and score more goals.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, adding the elastico to your soccer skillset is worth considering!
Written By: Beau Bridges
Founder of SoccerNovo
I’m Beau 👋 a proud dad of an MLS NEXT player, former soccer coach, soccer enthusiast, and board member of our local youth sports program. I created soccernovo.com to share my knowledge of the game and help parents learn more about youth soccer in the U.S. I also authored an eBook ‘Soccer Coach Made Simple‘. Learn more about Beau.
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