Reading The Game as Soccer Player

The team that I play for has had a very poor season in terms of wins/loss, but we are also a technically developed team. Most games were close because of our ability to read the tactic of our opponents. With other words, we know how they will likely play and adapt our games after the circumstances.

Here is a real world example on this... The other team started the kickoff by passing the ball back and then passing it down the right lane to their fastest player. Our fullback (I admit was practically asleep) at the time and the player managed to score. After about 20 minutes, we scored our first goal of the game. Then, it was their kickoff again.

Once again they passed back, but our defense realized they were doing the same play as in the opener. Our fullback intercepted the pass and set up a counterattack that capitalized on the moment. We scored again and we also won the game with 2-1. It was one of only 2 games we won that season.

My point with this story is that you need to improve your ability to read the other team’s tactic as it will set up opportunities for your team. It is an essential skill for every soccer player and should have a part in every practice session.