What is a Square Pass in Soccer?
If you’ve watched any Premier League or professional games, you’ll notice that most of the passing is angled. Typically, players will step forward or back to avoid receiving the ball in a straight line.
A ‘square pass’ is a direct-line pass that goes from side to side, usually played along the ground. It’s a relatively safe pass that is used to retain possession and maintain the steady flow of play. Medium risk, low reward type of passing.
In this article, I’ll go over some more about the square pass or square ball in soccer.
Understanding Square Pass in Soccer
In soccer, a square pass is a type of pass that is executed by passing the ball directly across the field to a teammate. It’s a pass that travels in a direct line from one side to the other. This pass is often used to switch up the flow of the game and keep the ball moving across the field.
One of the main advantages of the square pass is that it opens up space on the field. When a player makes a square pass, it forces the opposing team to shift their defensive formation, which creates gaps in their defense.
Another advantage of the square pass is that it helps to maintain possession. When a team is in possession of the ball, they have more control over the game. By making square passes, players can keep the ball moving and prevent the opposing team from gaining possession. This can be especially important in high-pressure situations, such as when a team is trying to protect a lead.
What’s better than a square pass? Avoiding it and pass at angles.
Square passes can result in a turnover and give the opposition a chance to counterattack.
If you’re going to a square pass, you need to have good technique and accuracy. Here are some tips to help you execute a perfect square pass:
- Keep your head up and look for open space and teammates.
- Use the inside of your foot to pass the ball.
- Use the correct amount of power to ensure that the ball reaches your teammate.
- Aim for your teammate’s feet to make it easier for them to control the ball.
- Practice regularly to improve your technique and accuracy.
Now, let’s explore why you should avoid square passes in soccer games.
Why You Should Avoid Square Passes
In soccer, I think you should avoid square passes whenever possible. Here’s why:
They’re Predictable
When you make a square pass, you’re essentially passing the ball to a player who’s standing in the same line as you, but farther away. This makes it easy for the opposing team to anticipate where the ball is going and position themselves to intercept it. In fact, square passes are so predictable that they’re often referred to as “easy pickings” by experienced soccer players.
They’re Risky
One of the biggest risks of making a square pass is that it can lead to a counterattack. If the opposing team intercepts the ball, they can quickly turn around and start moving towards your goal. This puts your team on the back foot and can lead to conceding a goal.
They’re Slow
Square passes are also slower than other types of passes. This is because the ball has to travel a longer distance to reach the intended player. This gives the opposing team more time to react and close down the space, making it harder for your team to create scoring opportunities.
Exceptions
Of course, there are times when a square pass is the best option. For example, if there are no other passing options available and the opposing team is pressing high up the field, a square pass may be necessary to retain possession. However, these situations are the exception rather than the rule.
Pass At Angles, Instead
In soccer, there is more benefit to angles instead of lines and corners. When you pass at angles, you create triangles that can advance the ball up the field more quickly and effectively.
It is the job of the receiver to step up or back and create a new lane for the passer. In turn, the passer should anticipate where the play is going and make a strong pass into that area of the field.
When all players buy into angles and avoid square passes, the ball moves with more purpose!
