When To Dribble and When to Pass in Soccer

If you’re wondering when to dribble and when to pass in soccer – this is for you.

Every soccer player has faced this split-second dilemma: should I dribble or pass?

Making the wrong decision can cost your team possession or even the game. Knowing when to dribble and when to pass in soccer is a crucial skill that separates good players from great ones.

Let’s break it down so you can make smarter decisions on the pitch and elevate your game.

when to dribble and when to pass in soccer
when to dribble and when to pass in soccer

When To Dribble and When to Pass in Soccer

1. Assess Your Surroundings

Before you decide to dribble or pass, quickly scan the field. Are defenders closing in? Is a teammate in a better position? If you’re surrounded by defenders, look to pass. However, if you see space to exploit, that’s your cue to dribble.

2. Use Dribbling to Create Space

Dribbling is most effective when you need to beat a defender or open up space for a teammate. Focus on using quick touches, changes of direction, and speed to unbalance your opponent. If you’re confident you can outplay your marker, take them on and create a new opportunity for your team.

3. Pass to Keep Possession

When your team needs to maintain control, passing is almost always the better option. Look for short, accurate passes to teammates who are open. Passing not only keeps the game moving but also wears down the opposition.

4. Know the Game Situation

In a tight game where your team is defending a lead, prioritize passing to avoid unnecessary risks. On the other hand, if your team needs a goal, dribbling can add an element of unpredictability and disrupt the opposition’s defense.

5. Trust Your Instincts

As you develop as a player, your instincts will guide you. Practice decision-making in training to simulate game situations. The more you play, the better you’ll get at knowing when to dribble and when to pass in soccer. For an in-depth breakdown with drills and examples, check out this video on this topic!

How To Become A Better Soccer Player

If you want to become a better soccer player, check out this 3-minute video. It’s not just another tutorial — it’s designed to help you understand your true potential as a soccer player.

Whether you’re a beginner or advanced player, the video explains how to improve your skills, develop your mindset, increase soccer IQ, and enhance your physical fitness.

You can start playing better, getting more respect from teammates, impressing your coaches, and performing with confidence under pressure.

Watch the video and discover how can your player transformation today:

Improve Your Game Today

Imagine the satisfaction of looking back and realizing that today was the day you decided to push yourself a little harder, run a little faster, and train a little longer. Tomorrow’s success is built on the decisions you make today.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment; make this moment perfect by committing to your improvement. Greatness isn’t found in procrastination — but by taking action today.

Seize the opportunity, embrace the challenge, and make a positive step towards your success. The future you want, is created by the decisions you make today.

If you really want to take another strong step in the right direction…

( continue reading )

soccer passing drills

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how to pass a soccer ball

Want To Improve Faster?

Not getting better at soccer? Confused about how to train effectively? Maybe you’re worried that you won’t be properly prepared for your next big opportunity? Or you just want to standout and actually feel respected by your teammates, coaches, and friends?

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soccer passing and receiving

About The Author

I used to be a soccer player who struggled with self-confidence. I felt slow, weak, and unmotivated. My coaches didn’t pay much attention to me, my friends laughed at my lack of skills. At one point, I even became so discouraged that I quit the sport altogether.

Enough was enough. I decided to take control of my own development and set out on a journey to become a better soccer player. This path led me on an incredible journey of self-improvement.

I went on to win league and goal-scoring titles, earn awards, lift trophies, and received a college scholarship. I’ve even earned international caps for my country.

I started sharing my knowledge, teaching others how to become the best soccer players they could be. My YouTube channel grew to over 500,000 subscribers. I coached for top youth clubs and men’s teams. Then started my own soccer academy.

soccer passing skills

Become A Better Soccer Player

But enough about me, let’s focus on you.

If you’re looking to improve your skillslet’s take your soccer game to the next level. I want to help you make a noticeable change in style of play and overall performance on the field.

I’m passionate about helping players achieve their goals in soccer, and I’d love to be a part of your journey. I can help you reach your goals faster and achieve more in this sport, but I won’t force you. If you’re ready to take the next step, here’s what I suggest you do:

1) Download The Soccer Success Planner (FREE)

2) Apply To The Online Soccer Academy (Limited Spots)

soccer passing

Want more soccer training content?

Here are some related soccer articles (and videos) you might enjoy:

How To Become A Playmaker in Soccer

Best Soccer Training Videos

Improve Soccer Passing Skills

Wishing You Success In Soccer

Coach Dylan
Progressive Soccer

Thank you for reading this article:
when to dribble and when to pass in soccer

Dylan Tooby

Success should not be judged based on what you achieve but by what you help others achieve. Hopefully, this information will help you. Thank you for reading. Please, leave a comment.