The Best Turns in Soccer To Practice (Why It's Important)

Learning to turn in soccer can give you a huge edge. By turning properly and quickly, you can find more open space or lead the attack.

In matter the position you play, turning with the soccer ball is an important skill.

It is one of those sneaky skills that separates good from great players.

In this article, I’ll address different types of turns in soccer. I’ve also included some videos to help you if you are a visual learner.

What Are the Basic Turns in Soccer?

Turns in soccer allow you to quickly change direction, evade defenders, and create space for yourself or your teammates.

Here are some different types you should learn ASAP!

The inside hook is a simple but effective turn that involves using the inside of your foot to move the ball across your body and into space.

This turn is especially useful for wingers or outside fullbacks who want to cut inside and redirect their run towards the goal.

To perform an inside cut:

The outside hook is similar to the inside hook turn, but instead of using the inside of your foot, you use the outside.

This turn is great for players who want to quickly change direction while changing direction and momentum.

To perform an outside cut:

The drag back is effective against defenders that lunge for the ball.

It involves pulling the ball back behind your body and changing direction in one smooth motion.

To perform a drag back:

Plant your non-kicking foot behind the ball (about 1 foot away)
Use the sole of your other (stronger) foot to drag the ball back behind your body.
Immediately, use the instep to dribble in another direction

Not all turns are created equal. Some are harder the execute than others.

The following are moves you should have in your back pocket.

The Roulette Turn is a classic move that involves quickly spinning your body around while keeping the ball close to your feet.

This is an effective move when defenders are coming at you hard. The most important part is to nail down the timing of it.

To perform this move:

The Stepover Turn is another classic move that involves faking out defenders by quickly moving your feet in different directions.

This move is all about the body feint.

To perform this:

The Cruyff turn is a classic turn named after the legendary Dutch player Johan Cruyff.

This turn involves faking a shot or pass with your kicking foot, then dragging the ball behind your non-kicking foot and changing direction.

This is a great move for players who want to change direction quickly.

To perform a Cruyff turn:

I’d like to leave you with a final piece of advice.

Learn and master the basics first. Then move on to the more advanced techniques.

Learning the hook and drag back turns will get you 80% there.

I think it’s silly when youth players try fancy turns in games. First, they rarely execute it. Second, they get from Point A to Point B slower.

It’s more effective to learn the basic moves. Then continue working on your agility and speed. The combo will make you a more dynamic player!