How to Get the Ball More in Soccer

Many youth soccer players think getting the ball more means more dribbling or not passing it as much. This couldn’t be further from the truth!

To get the ball more in soccer, you must find space, make runs, and call for the ball.

Being aware when you don’t have the ball is as important as on the ball skills. Being aware of the players around you and finding space will open up your game to new levels.

In this article, I’ll explain how to get the ball more in any position!

Always Be Scanning

No matter what position you play, you should always pass and immediately scan for open space.

For a defender, this might mean dropping deeper or wider.

For a midfielder, it may mean going at an angle in the middle of the field.

For a forward, it might mean making a vertical run toward the opponent’s goal.

No matter what position you are in, scanning for open space will give your teammates more opportunities to get you the ball. It’s as simple as that!

Defend to Get the Ball Back

One of the more controllable aspects of finding the ball is to make hard but clean tackles. When you’re able to do this, you can stop the attack and start the counter.

The other aspect of defending is intercepting passes. Knowing where the ball is and where the receiving player is at all times can help you anticipate passes better.

This is often overlooked but defending is a great way to get more possession of the ball. This is especially true for defenders and CDMs.

What You Shouldn’t Do

If you want to be on the ball more, hoping (sometimes) won’t work. I say ‘sometimes’ because you may get lucky and the ball may be on your side a lot.

But, what happens if it doesn’t?

Passing it and standing still is not the answer. Letting others tackle your player won’t get you the ball.

However, being proactive is the way to go.

Passing and moving into open space will give your teammates an option to pass to you.

Making hard tackles will give you a chance to regain possession.

Calling for the ball will trigger your teammate to hear you and make a quick decision.

Try not to be a victim of game play or your position.

I always tell my son, “control what you can control!”