How To Do the Rainbow in Soccer (with Video)
Are you looking to add some flair to your boring soccer game? Enter the 🌈 rainbow.
The rainbow is a move that involves flicking the ball with one foot over your head.
Tips to Perform a Rainbow:
- The most important thing is to drag the ball up the ankle.
- Work on the basic movements slowly. And then speed it up.
- Don’t try it in a youth soccer game! There are other moves to get by a defender.
Performing a rainbow during a game is very difficult. Players like Neymar have pulled it off but many coaches don’t promote players doing the move.
In this article, I’ll show you exactly how to do a rainbow in soccer and some of the best to pull it off in a match. So, let’s show off in front of your friends and get after it.
How Do I Do a Rainbow?
Take a look at this video, it’s a great tutorial.
To start, you need to get comfortable with the movement. Here’s how to pull off the move:
- Start by standing still with the soccer ball at your feet.
- Use the back-inside part of your cleat to secure the ball.
- Lift your non-dominant foot and place it behind the ball.
- Use your dominant foot to roll the ball back towards your non-dominant foot.
- As the ball rolls back, quickly flick it up and over your head with your dominant heel.
- Trap the ball with your non-dominant foot.
Repeat this movement until you can do it smoothly and without thinking. It will probably take some time to get the hang of it but don’t get discouraged.
With consistent practice, you’ll be able to do the rainbow in no time.
Is the Rainbow Illegal?
No, the rainbow in soccer is not illegal but it can frowned upon in certain situations.
For example, if a team is up 6-0 and the winning player tries a rainbow, this could be a good sign that they are showboating. This can ruffle some feathers.
Also, no matter the score, most coaches will not tolerate a rainbow during the game. There are many more dribbling moves you can do to get by a defender.
Final Thoughts
While the rainbow is a flashy move in soccer, it should be used sparingly. I mean very sparingly.
It’s a good idea to practice it. It does give you more soccer cred among your teammates and friends. But, there are other moves you should perfect first.
I hope this helps! Good luck and send us your video on social.
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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