Tips for playing 11v11

[tnili]

I am 36 and I am pretty good in casual small-sided games but when moving to 11v11, I struggle. I played 11v11 in high school and club but was never very good. The main problem is that I get nervous and lose my composure. In casual games where there is no pressure, I play very well and usually dominate my opponent.

I am considering playing 11v11 on an adult league next season but I need some tips to improve my game.

[daharryone]

Hate to say it but it's just practice. More game reps will help you. Just remember that when playing 11v11, it's a bigger field and usually mean more space. If you received a pass, most likely the player that gave it you is competent enough not to give it to you with a defender right on your behind.

If you have the fundamentals down, all you really need is to calm down and that takes practice/rep.

[snolly g]

I am 36 and I am pretty good in casual small-sided games but when moving to 11v11, I struggle. I played 11v11 in high school and club but was never very good. The main problem is that I get nervous and lose my composure. In casual games where there is no pressure, I play very well and usually dominate my opponent.

I am considering playing 11v11 on an adult league next season but I need some tips to improve my game.

don't be nervous. it's just a game. the best way to shake the jitters is to play a lot. the pace is definitely different on full field because people can't help but play more competitively. but this doesn't mean you won't have time.

1. get into the rhythm of the game. work on your own rhythm too. trap-pass. trap-shoot. trap-dribble.

2. pay attention to what's happening on the field away from the ball. when the ball comes to you, you'll already have ideas about where to pass, where to move, etc.

3. open your ears. if your team is decent, they'll communicate to let you know when there's pressure. if they're telling you "man on!", you know that you may have to get rid of the ball quickly.

4. if you've already got the ball, don't be afraid to slow down. change of pace is just one of many ways to beat a defender.

5. also, if you've got the ball, don't be afraid to turn around and pass the ball backwards/lay it back to a teammate who's behind you. (just don't make wimpy passes.)

these are all in-game tips, but the real and best suggestion i have is to sign up and play!

[Antonio81]

Make sure to be in shape too. When players are tired all the insecurities come back, the touches go bad, and tempers can rise.

[fmrvlc95]

relax on the ball, dont freak out, and let the ball do the work. through balls tear defenses apart.


good luck