How to Properly Shoot a Soccer Ball With Accuracy

Kicking a soccer ball with accuracy is a key skill for any player. This manual will guide you through 12 essential steps to improve your technique, helping you achieve better control and precision on the field. Whether you're a beginner or experienced player, these steps will help you enhance your accuracy and confidence when kicking a soccer ball.

1. Preferably a size 5 soccer ball
2. Soccer cleats
3. On some sort of grass/turf
4. Soccer net
5. soccer cones

Before approaching the ball, identify exactly where you want the ball to go. Whether it’s aiming for a specific corner of the goal, a teammate, or a target in practice, having a clear target will help guide your shot. Mentally visualize the ball traveling to that spot as you approach.

The angle at which you approach the ball influences the accuracy and direction of your shot. For most accurate shots, a 30 to 45-degree approach (instead of straight on) helps generate a smooth, curved motion. This approach provides better control and allows you to open your hips for a more fluid shot.

As you reach the ball, place your non-kicking foot about 6-8 inches beside it, slightly behind the ball for a lofted shot or directly parallel to the ball for a low shot. Your non-kicking foot is your anchor—it stabilizes your body and helps with balance. Make sure your toes are pointing toward your intended target.

Keeping your body balanced is key to controlling the ball. Lean slightly over the ball as you kick to keep the shot low and controlled. If you lean back too much, the ball may soar too high. Your upper body should be in a forward position, helping to drive the ball with power and accuracy.

Just before you make contact with the ball, lock your ankle at a 90-degree angle. This means your foot should be firm and not loose. A locked ankle ensures that your foot strikes the ball with stability and accuracy. If your ankle is loose, the ball can spin off in an unintended direction.

For maximum accuracy, use the top part of your foot (your laces) to strike the ball. Avoid hitting the ball with your toes, as this can cause the ball to spin unpredictably. By hitting the ball with your laces, you get a cleaner, more controlled strike that maintains accuracy. The sweet spot is just under the center of the ball for a lofted shot or directly in the center for a ground shot.

One of the most common mistakes is lifting your head too early to watch the shot. Keep your eyes focused on the ball at the moment of contact. Your head should stay down to ensure that your body remains in the correct posture. Lifting your head too soon can throw off your balance and accuracy.

After making contact with the ball, let your kicking leg continue its natural motion. A strong, controlled follow-through helps direct the ball toward your target. The angle and direction of your follow-through play a big role in determining where the ball goes. Follow through toward your target for improved accuracy.

When focusing on accuracy, power should be secondary. While it’s tempting to kick as hard as possible, accuracy often requires a balance of power and control. Focus on a smooth, controlled strike rather than brute force. With practice, you’ll be able to strike the ball with enough power while maintaining accuracy.

As you kick, your arms should not hang loosely by your sides. Extend your arms slightly to help with balance. The arm opposite your kicking leg should naturally move backward to counter the motion, which helps keep your body steady and aligned during the kick. This balance is crucial for an accurate shot.

To become a well-rounded player, it’s important to practice shooting with both your dominant and non-dominant foot. While your stronger foot may give you more power and control initially, training your weaker foot ensures you have better control and versatility on the field. Start with shorter, controlled kicks and gradually work your way to more complex shots.

Incorporate drills into your practice that focus on targeting specific areas of the goal or field. Place cones or small targets in different positions and practice hitting them consistently. Focus on hitting the same target from various distances and angles, which will improve your overall accuracy under different conditions.