Soccer Drills for Beginners: First Touch

Why is a good first touch important in soccer? Imagine you’re in the middle of a game; the ball is coming towards you, and your next move depends on how well you control it with your first touch. This crucial first touch can set the pace for your entire play.

Mastering your first touch is essential to becoming a great soccer player who can progress the flow of any game you play, whether you’re in grassroots or amateur adult leagues.

Understanding the First Touch in Soccer

The first touch in soccer can have various meanings, but at its root, it’s the moment a player receives the ball and controls it using different parts of their body, setting the stage for their next move

The first touch is a critical component because it sets up your next action—whether it’s passing, dribbling, shooting, or taking another touch—before the opposing players have a chance to close in on you.

Benefits of a great first touch:

• Creates space and time to make a decisive play
• Keeps the ball close, shielding it from defenders
• Enables quick and efficient execution of the next move

Think of a first touch as the foundation of a home—without it, the entire structure is at risk of falling.

Types of Touches in Soccer

• Inside of the Foot: Essential for accurate control and passing.
• Outside of the Foot: Perfect for quick directional changes into open space.
• Laces/Top of the Foot: Ideal for receiving aerial passes in tight spaces.
• Sole of the Foot: Great for instant stop of the ball.
• Thigh and Chest Control: Crucial for controlling aerial passes with the body.

Drills to Improve First Touch

Juggle, Juggle, and Juggle

Juggling is one the best ways to become comfortable with the ball. As you master your juggling skills, you become proficient at reading the flight of the ball, applying the right amount of cushion with soft touches, and manipulating the ball to follow your commands.

• Setup: A soccer ball and open space.

• Keys to success: Keep your ankle locked with your foot slightly pointed down. Aim to hit the ball consistently on the same spot of your laces for better control, and remember to stay relaxed.

• Practice: Start with doing as many juggles as you can. Take note of your highest record and aim to surpass it with each practice session. 
  
  As you improve with your dominant foot, incorporate your weaker foot. Alternate feet and challenge yourself with the pyramid game: juggle once with each foot, then twice, up to three, etc., and back down to one.

• Focus: Keep the ball under control with soft, cushioned touches and aim to reduce the amount times the ball spins with each juggle. 

Wall Passes for Inside Foot Touch

Passing a ball against a wall shouldn’t be underestimated. A wall can be a soccer player’s best friend and a key tool for any player’s development. There are so many drills that can be done with a wall but being able to master the inside of the foot touch should be top of that list due to the constant use of it in a soccer game.  

• Setup: Find a wall with space to do passes, or a rebounder and a soccer ball.

• Key to Success: Again, keep your ankle locked and aim to receive the ball in the inside of your foot where your arch is located.

• Practice: Stand about 5-10 feet from a wall and pass the ball against it using the inside of your foot. As the ball rebounds, control it with the inside of your foot before passing it back. 
  
  Once you become proficient with your dominant foot, repeat the drill with your weaker foot to build balance with both feet. Then, once comfortable with both feet, you can start alternating feet with every pass. 

• Focus: Keep your passes smooth and controlled and control the ball gently with the arch of your foot when it returns.

Wall Passes for Outside Foot Touch

The outside foot touch is a valuable skill for turning into space and making quick directional changes. Although it’s challenging initially, consistent practice with your best training partner—the wall—can make it a game-changing asset.

• Setup: Find a wall with space to do passes, or a rebounder and a soccer ball.

• Key to Success: Bend your knees as you prepare to receive the ball, letting the ball’s force dictate the softness of your touch with the outside of your foot. 

• Practice: Stand 5-10 feet from the wall. Pass the ball and, as it returns, position your foot to the side and use the outside (near your little toe) to gently guide the ball in the desired direction.
  
  After a set of inside of the foot touches, you can incorporate this touch and also combine these touches by alternating between them.

• Focus: Maintain a soft, controlled touch to keep the ball close for your next move.

Juggling with Wall Passes

Combining juggling with wall passes is an excellent way to develop both ball control and first touch under pressure.

• Setup: A soccer ball and a wall.

• Keys to Success: Maintain focus on your juggling while preparing to control the ball off the wall. Keep your touches soft and controlled.

• Practice: Start by juggling the ball a few times, then kick it against the wall. As the ball comes back, control it with your foot and immediately continue juggling. Repeat the process, alternating between juggling and wall passes.
  
  Once comfortable, try using both feet, and alternate between them during the drill. Gradually increase the speed to simulate game-like conditions.

• Focus: Smooth transitions between juggling and passing. Ensure your first touch off the wall sets you up well for the next juggle.

Key Tips for Improving Touch

1. Consistency: Practice regularly to build muscle memory.
2. Focus on Technique: Quality over quantity. Ensure each touch is deliberate and in control.
3. Use Both Feet: Develop ambidexterity for versatility in the game.
4. Stay Relaxed: Tension can lead to poor touches; keep your body relaxed.

Real-World Application

A great first touch is vital in real-game scenarios, allowing players to react quickly and make smart decisions. It helps in tight spaces, quick transitions, and maintaining possession under pressure. Players with a refined first touch often stand out, as they can control the pace of the game and contribute significantly to their team’s success.

Conclusion

Improving your first touch is a cornerstone of becoming a proficient soccer player. By incorporating these drills into your practice routine, you’ll enhance your ability to control the ball, make quicker decisions, and ultimately perform better during games.

Bonus Tips

• Video Analysis: Record your practice sessions to identify areas for improvement.
• Peer Feedback: Practice with teammates and seek their feedback on your touch.
• Visualization: Mentally rehearse the drills and game scenarios to reinforce learning.
• Mix It Up: Keep your training varied to stay motivated and avoid monotony.
• Learn From Pros: Watch games of players you want to replicate.