As I watched last season’s Defensive Player of the Year return to the scorer’s table after exchanging heated words with the Magnolia side, it struck me just how much of soccer comes down to technique under pressure—especially kicking. Over the years, I’ve come to believe that mastering a variety of kicks isn’t just a nice skill to have; it’s what separates good players from truly great ones. Whether you're defending, attacking, or trying to control the tempo, the right kick at the right moment can change everything. That’s why I want to walk you through what I consider the 10 essential types of soccer kicks every player should have in their arsenal. Trust me, I’ve seen players transform their game just by refining these.
Let’s start with the most fundamental one: the instep drive. This is your bread and butter for power shooting, and I can’t stress enough how important it is to get this right. When you strike the ball with the laces of your foot, you generate serious force—I’ve clocked shots at over 80 miles per hour with proper form. But it’s not just about blasting the ball; you need to keep your body over it and follow through toward the target. I remember practicing this for hours as a teenager, and it paid off in a cup match where a well-placed instep drive from outside the box sealed the win. Next up is the side-foot pass, which might sound simple, but precision here is everything. Using the inside of your foot, you can deliver accurate, weighted passes that cut through defenses. Statistically, around 85% of completed passes in professional leagues are made with this technique. It’s the foundation of possession play, and I’ve always preferred it for building attacks because it minimizes errors and keeps the flow smooth.
Now, the curling shot is where artistry meets technique. By striking the ball with the inside or outside of your foot and adding spin, you can bend it around defenders and into the corner of the net. I’ve always admired players like Beckham for this—his free-kicks were a masterclass in curl. Personally, I love using this in tight spaces; it feels almost magical when the ball swerves just right. Then there’s the volley, which involves striking the ball in mid-air. It’s high-risk but incredibly rewarding. Timing is crucial here; get it wrong, and you’ll sky the ball, but get it right, and it’s a highlight-reel goal. I’ve scored a handful of volleys in my time, and each one felt like pure instinct. Another must-master is the chip shot, perfect for lifting the ball over an onrushing keeper. It requires a delicate touch and quick thinking—I’ve found that practicing with smaller goals helps finesse this skill. Data from top leagues show that chips account for roughly 5-7% of goals, but they’re often the most memorable.
Moving on, the driven pass is essential for long-range accuracy. Unlike a lofted ball, this stays low and fast, ideal for switching play. I’ve used it countless times to catch opponents off-guard, and it’s a staple in modern soccer for maintaining tempo. Then we have the knuckleball, a technique popularized by players like Ronaldo. By hitting the ball with minimal spin, you create an unpredictable trajectory that baffles goalkeepers. I’ll admit, it’s one of the tougher kicks to master—it took me months to get consistent—but the results are worth it. On the defensive side, the clearance kick is vital. It’s all about power and distance to relieve pressure. In high-stakes moments, like when that Defensive Player of the Year had to reset after the Magnolia incident, a strong clearance can turn defense into attack in seconds. I’ve seen games saved by a well-executed boot upfield.
The outside-of-the-foot pass, or "trivela," adds flair and surprise. It’s not as common, but when done right, it can unlock defenses with its unexpected curve. I’ve always enjoyed incorporating this into my play because it keeps defenders guessing. Lastly, the backheel might seem like a trick, but it’s a legitimate tool for quick, close-quarters play. It’s all about awareness and timing; I’ve set up goals with backheels that simple passes couldn’t achieve. Each of these kicks has its place, and in my experience, versatility is key. For instance, in a match last year, switching between a driven pass and a chip kept the opposition unbalanced and led to a 3-1 victory.
Wrapping up, I firmly believe that dedicating time to these 10 kicks can elevate any player’s game. From the power of the instep drive to the finesse of the chip, they cover the spectrum of in-game scenarios. I’ve coached youth teams and pros alike, and those who focus on this variety tend to adapt better under pressure—much like that Defensive Player of the Year who, despite the tension, relied on his skills to make an impact. So grab a ball, head to the field, and start practicing; you’ll be amazed at how these techniques open up new possibilities on the pitch.