While developing and refining shot-stopping skills are critical, foot skills — particularly on your weaker foot — can give goalkeepers an advantage in today’s fast-paced, possession-oriented game.
Whether you’re clearing a backpass, making a long pass to launch an attack, or simply keeping control under pressure, being comfortable with both feet can improve your overall performance and increase your value as a modern goalkeeper.
This article explores the reasons why goalkeepers should develop their weaker foot, and recommends drills to help you improve.
The Importance of Developing a Stronger Weak Foot
In today’s game, a goalkeeper’s role has expanded beyond merely stopping shots; keepers are now vital in building an attack from the back. Developing a strong weak foot can significantly improve your performance in various key situations.
Backpasses
With teams pressing high, backpasses have become common for goalkeepers. Relying only on your strong foot can make you vulnerable; a poor first touch may invite attackers. In contrast, proficiency with your weak foot allows for effective clearances, reducing the risk of rushed kicks and potential turnovers.
Staying composed when receiving the ball on your weaker side is crucial, and two-footed goalkeepers are better equipped to handle these situations.
Clearances
When opposing players close in, it’s essential to use your weak foot for effective clearances. Confidence in both feet enables you to control the ball regardless of your positioning, helping you evade pressure and find open teammates.
Relying solely on your strong foot can lead to panicked decisions and costly mistakes. A well-developed weak foot, on the other hand, allows you to remain calm and make smarter choices under pressure.
Distribution
Your passing ability is crucial as the first line of attack, and a reliable weak foot enhances this skill. It allows for executing accurate short passes when lanes are blocked, keeping the flow of play smooth.
Additionally, in situations that require long kicks, a well-developed weak foot enables precise deliveries to players far up the field, even under pressure. This versatility not only helps you exploit gaps in the opponent’s midfield but also facilitates seamless play from the back, creating more attacking opportunities for your team.
Ultimately, being comfortable with both feet will help you become a more well-rounded goalkeeper and a valuable asset to any team.
Drills to Develop Your Weak Foot
Developing your weaker foot takes consistent practice, focus, and the right drills. Here are some exercises to incorporate into your training routine:
1. Basic Passing
- Stand about 10-15 feet away from a partner.
- Use only your weaker foot to pass the ball with varying speeds, working on both accuracy and control.
- Focus on your foot’s positioning and follow-through. Repeat this drill for 10-15 minutes each day, gradually increasing the power of your passes as you feel more comfortable.
2. One-Touch Passing
- Set up cones in a straight line about 5-10 feet apart and pass the ball back and forth with a partner or against a wall.
- Use one touch on your weaker foot each time to control and direct the ball. Move quickly between cones, making sure to focus on the accuracy of each pass.
- Aim to complete each pass in a controlled, smooth motion, maintaining your body position and balance throughout the drill.
3. Wall Ball
- Stand approximately 10-12 feet away from a wall. Pass the ball against the wall with your weaker foot, aiming to control it on the rebound with the same foot.
- Vary the angles, speeds, and distances of your passes. This will simulate different game scenarios and build your confidence in using your weaker foot under various conditions.
- Perform this drill for 5-10 minutes at a time, focusing on smooth, controlled touches.
4. Weak Foot Shooting
- Place the ball a few feet outside the penalty area. Take shots with your weaker foot, aiming for different areas of the goal (e.g. top corner, left post, or the crossbar).
- Focus on keeping your head down, following through, and making solid contact with the ball.
- Aim for accuracy over power initially, gradually increasing the force of your shots as you improve.
5. Targeted Clearances
- Place cones or markers around the pitch, and have someone apply pressure as you aim for different targets. Your coach can call out specific locations, like “1” or “2,” to indicate where you should direct your kick.
- Using your weaker foot, attempt to clear the ball to specific targets or zones.
- This drill will help you gain confidence in making accurate, controlled clearances with your weaker foot, simulating real-game scenarios.
To maximise your weak foot development, treat these drills with the same importance as your dominant foot. Consistency is key, so set aside dedicated time each week for these exercises.
Additionally, pay attention to your body positioning and balance to ensure you are developing proper technique along with strength.
Final Words
By putting in the work to improve your weaker foot can make you a more effective and confident goalkeeper. Being proficient with both feet allows you to respond with greater composure under pressure, opens up more distribution options, and improves your control in difficult situations.
Not only will a stronger weak foot give you an edge on the pitch — but it also demonstrates your commitment to developing as a well-rounded keeper. It’s a skill that can make you stand out, and one that will continue to benefit you throughout your goalkeeping career.