Watching soccer legends like Zinedine Zidane, Lionel Messi, or Ronaldinho glide past defenders with skill and speed, you might have noticed their remarkable dribbling abilities. What stands out is their effortless control, using both feet and every part of the foot to manage the ball.
Dribbling is one of the most vital skills in soccer. As the game evolves, players at all positions—yes, even goalkeepers—are expected to be comfortable on the ball. This is especially true during the foundational stages of a player’s development (ages 7 to 13), as dribbling helps improve almost every other aspect of their game. Players who lack confidence in their ball control often find themselves falling behind their peers.
Why Dribbling is Key
The ability to dribble well not only enhances your offensive game but also boosts your overall soccer IQ. From improving agility and balance to mastering quick decision-making, dribbling lays the groundwork for all the essential skills a player needs. Without solid dribbling, even the most talented players will struggle to fully develop their potential.
A Drill That Covers It All: The Five Star Cross Pattern
While there are numerous dribbling drills that challenge various aspects of your game—such as figure-eight dribbling, body feints, cone weaving, and more—today’s focus is on one drill that combines nearly every key element required for effective dribbling. It’s called the Five Star Cross Pattern Dribbling Drill.
Equipment Needed:
Five cones (or similar markers)
A soccer ball
A small space to work within
Instructions:
Set up five cones in a cross pattern.
Start at one cone and weave your way through each cone by dribbling.
Perform the drill for 30-second intervals, focusing on smooth and controlled touches as you navigate through the cones.
Variations to Try:
Dribble through the cones using only your right foot.
Dribble through the cones using only your left foot.
Use both feet, incorporating inside foot turns as you weave.
Use both feet, incorporating outside foot turns.
Try sole roll dribbling to work on softer touches and close control.
Focus on Speed and Precision
Once you’re comfortable with the basic pattern, challenge yourself by moving faster while avoiding any contact with the cones. The goal is to maintain control while improving your speed and footwork.
Pro Tip:
To add variety to your practice, adjust the distance between the cones. Placing the cones further apart will help you work on speed and endurance, while bringing them closer together forces you to focus on tight ball control and softer, more precise touches.
By regularly practicing this drill and incorporating these variations, you’ll be on your way to mastering close control dribbling, making you a more confident and skilled player on the field.
