Having good dribbling skills is a vital part of soccer. However, knowing when to pass the ball is even more important.

I can admit that dribbling your opponent is exciting and fun, but you need to keep in mind that the game of soccer is not a one man show.

If you can’t prove yourself to be a team player, I can guarantee you that you will not very much time on the field at all.

Passing the ball on first touch should always be your main option. However, there are situations when you will be forced to use your dribbling skills and in this article we will take a look at these.

Facing an opponent 1 vs. 1

This type of situation is ideal for trying out your dribbling skills. Simply, drive the ball forward and as the opponent is near you (about half yard) execute your move and accelerate past him.

In 1 vs. 1 the chances for getting around your opponent will be pretty high. However, you need to keep in mind that the slower your defender is the easier you will have to get around him.

Playing as Forward or Striker

As a forward or striker you will need to dribble often. Being able to get past your opponent will be one of your main missions (besides scoring goals).

You will therefore need to possess good dribbling skills in order to perform well. Other skills like heading and passing will also be important.

But without being a good dribbler you can’t expect either to play forward or striker game after game.

Playing as Offensive Midfielder

As an offensive midfielder you will often find yourself in dribbling situations. You will often need to get around one or two opponents in order to pass the ball to your striker/forward or go for a finish by yourself.

Receiving The Ball Inside The Penalty Area

Dribbling inside the 18 yard box have several benefits. Your opponents will be scared to attack you because they don’t want you to get around them.

Your opponents will also be afraid to cause a penalty. They will know that one little push may result in a penalty kick and they will therefore be extra careful.

Playing on The Flank

While playing on the flank you will always have one fullback against you. However, the good thing is that you will usually have time to receive the ball and face him one on one.

Dribbling moves that you may use to get around your opponents are Matthews, C.R 7 step over and Ronaldinho’s Flip Flap.

Summary

These are just a few moments where you will want to use your dribbling skills. I just can’t emphasize this enough – practice is everything.

Just because you can dribble to a certain extent means that you stop and pat yourself on the back. While you’re doing that back patting, there are other people that just do it.

They don’t complain or try to justify their lack of training. They do what they need to do and go ahead and move on to something else.

Can you do that? If so, then you’re going to be a great soccer player over time!