Game Time
Beating a Defender
Matt Smith of Epic Soccer Training breaks down what it takes to properly beat a defender. Matt knows his stuff. Get more Soccer Training Advice from Matt httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHZSYNId4So
Manuel Pellegrini Secret Tactics
Get inside the tactical mind of Manuel Pellegrini, including his favorite formations and how he makes tactical coaching adjustments during the game. One of the most fascinating comments in this video is towards the end, where he makes the arguement that during the...
Sizing-Up Opposing Teams During Warm-Ups
As a student of the game, I like to take in all the information I can about my opponents, and warm ups present a great opportunity. In all likelihood, I can pick up a few different things about the other team I can hopefully take advantage of before the game is over....
Practice vs. Game Players
Ever notice that there are some players whose performance in practice is fantastic, but they are not contributors at game time? There are also players who do not seem motivated at practice, but are extremely effective during the game. Why is this? I think it has to do...
Analyzing the 4-4-2
The 4-4-2 is the most common formation in British soccer. So why is it so attractive here? Find out more in this article. If you ask an Englishman what formation the national team should play, he will always say 4-4-2. But why is that? What is so special about 4-4-2....
Positioning a Weaker Player
Almost every team has a player or two that is below average, and finding a position for these players can be a real difficulty for the coach. Regardless, each player deserves quality-playing time but the problem is that weak players are often easily exploited and the...
Throw In Strategy
Throw-ins may seem like a small part of the game, but they can make a huge difference in the final outcome. With that said, there are two points I like to make with my players that go beyond the basic technique of a throw in and into the strategy of the game. The...
Creating Scoring Opportunities
Every team goes through funks where scoring a goal becomes nearly impossible. When your team is in such a place, it is important to maximize the opportunities you do get to put the ball into the back of the net. During the season, finishing skills will make all the...
Diet For Soccer Players
By Bryan Bean It is very important for a soccer player to be and remain fit because of the fact that soccer is a game that involves plenty of running up and down the field. There is a good reason why there not that many bulky and stocky soccer players around and that...
3-5-2 Formation
The 3-5-2 is one of the most popular formations in world football today. Along with the 4-4-2, the 3-5-2 formation and it's variations are probably the most common formations used by world club and national managers today. Let's find out why. Good Defensive Foundation...