5 Quick Tips on How to Become a Better Soccer Player this Month

5 Quick Tips on How to Become a Better Soccer Player this Month

Every player dreams of getting better, scoring more goals, making smarter plays, and standing out on the field. But the truth is, becoming a stronger player doesn’t just happen during games. It’s built through habits, training, and small improvements every day.

At Joga Bonito Academy, we believe in helping kids train smart, build confidence, and play with creativity. You don’t need a fancy field or expensive equipment to improve, you need focus and the right approach.

Here are 5 quick tips that can make a big difference in your development.

Tip #1 - Work on Your First Touch

Your first touch determines what happens next. A bad one usually puts you under pressure, or you lose the ball. It's a skill that you always have to work on to stay sharp.

How to improve it?

• Wall Passing Drill (First Touch & Control)

  Setup:

  • Find a wall or rebounder.

  • Place a cone 2–3 yards in front of the wall.

  • Use both feet throughout the drill.

    
    

• Steps:

  1. Pass to the wall with your right foot.

  2. Receive with your back foot (left) and guide the ball into space.

  3. Take your next touch past the cone to stay in a controlled working area.

  4. Repeat the sequence, alternating feet.

  5. Add variations:

     • One-touch passes

     • Two-touch passes (control + pass)

     • Weak-foot only

• Focus Points:

  • Keep your first touch controlled and purposeful.

  • Always angle your body to receive into space.

  • Stay light on your feet and close to the cone for discipline.

Tip #2 - Play Small-Sided Games

This is one of the fastest ways to improve. 3v3, 4v4, or even 1v1 games force players to get more touches and make quicker decisions.

What are the benefits of small-sided games?

• More touches per player = faster progress

• Tighter spaces = quicker thinking

• No fixed positions = more creativity

Small-sided games offer countless benefits, but these are a few to keep in mind.

Tip #3 - Train With Both Feet

Most players rely too much on their dominant foot, which limits their options and makes them predictable. The good news? You can train your weaker foot the same way you developed your strong one.

How to train using both feet?

Cone dribbling is a great way to improve control and comfort with both feet. You can add variety to keep it challenging and fun:

• Use both feet: Dribble through the cones alternating left and right.

• Change surfaces: Control the ball with the inside, outside, and sole of each foot.

• Freestyle dribble: Mix in turns, cuts, and quick changes of pace.

• Skill moves: Practice step-overs, scissors, or feints, making sure to perform them with both feet.

Focus: Keep the ball close, stay balanced, and challenge yourself to get quicker while staying in control.

Tip #4 - Stay Fit and Mobile

Skill means little if you can’t keep up with the game. Fitness allows you to play hard from the first whistle to the last.

Tip #5 - Watch and Learn

Use your free time to watch as much soccer as possible. Focus on players in your position. Observe how they move on the field and how quickly they make decisions with the ball

To become a better soccer player, focus on the basics:

1. Control the ball with your first touch

2. Play more small-sided games

3. Train with both feet

4. Stay fit and mobile

5. Watch and learn from the best

We don’t just build players, we create confident, creative athletes ready to shine.