A Messi Masterclass – Run and Outside Foot Control
- aaronptighe
- Jul 5
- 2 min read
In Argentina’s amazing World Cup game v Cape Verdi, we saw the outside foot trap technique used to brilliant effect for two of their goals. The 1st by maestro Messi and later by centre back Martinez. Messi's goal contained that skill as part of his brilliant repertoire.
Watch how he walks in line with the defence whilst finding a space in between the left back and centre back, knowing to leave enough space between himself and the centre back. When he sees that Martinez, in his own half, is being allowed to have the ball with no pressure, he runs a few yards backwards and spins into a sprint behind. Those few yards running backwards have allowed him to reach full pace before being offside, whereas the defender has to go from stopped to sprint. That means Messi is in front with time when he receives the beautifully delivered long drive pass from Maritnez.
Watch how he times the bounce of the ball, cushioning the ball with the outside of his foot as it lands, trapping the ball over the top half to keep it from bouncing, all whilst positioning it for the next strike and finish. Messi and later Martinez make this skill look easy, but the timing and technique takes lots or practice to get right.
Practice: Throwing the ball up in the air for yourself and, as It bounces, trapping it along the grass to the side. Progress by trapping it to different distances, followed by a pass or shot. Progress by having a partner pass or throw the ball from distance for you to control. Enjoy the goals on YouTube here. More magic from Messi.
Enjoy the goals on YouTube here. More magic from Messi.
One2Pro:
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Aaron Tighe
Founder, One2Pro
*What It Takes. Available on major retailers in hardcopy, eBook and audio.
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