5 Easy Steps Guide to Master Cruyff Turn in Soccer

5 Easy Steps Guide to Master Cruyff Turn in Soccer

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The Cruyff Turn is one of the most famous moves in soccer. It became renowned when Johan Cruyff, one of the most legendary players of the game, made it during a match against Sweden during the 1974 World Cup.

Used to hoax an opponent and change direction almost immediately, mastering the Cruyff Turn in soccer is quite doable with some easy-to-follow steps, as will be shown in this guide.

Whether you’re a new player wanting to learn or sharpen your skills, this move might bring in an ace up your sleeve against the defenders.

Whether you’re dribbling down the sideline or facing a one-on-one challenge, the Cruyff Turn will give you an edge on the field. Start practicing today!

By the end of this tutorial, you will:

• Learn what the Cruyff Turn is.
• Know where to use it during a soccer match.
• Be able to perform the move step-by-step.
• Get tips on how to practice and perfect your turn.

1. What is the Cruyff Turn in Soccer?

The Cruyff Turn in soccer is a smart way to dribble past your opponent.

Instead of kicking it forward as you would think, you pull the ball behind with the inside of your foot. Then quickly spin your body in the opposite direction.

This tactic shocks the defender, allowing you to escape their pressure and continue moving with the ball.

• When to Use the Cruyff Turn:
  • If a defender is marking tightly and you need to turn quickly.
  • When you’re in a tight space with limited passing or shooting options.
  • To maintain possession and evade an opponent’s tackle.

2. Preparation for the Cruyff Turn

Before getting into the Cruyff Turn in football, it’s important to be comfortable with basic ball control.

The turn isn’t overly complicated, but timing and quick thinking are key to executing it well. Here’s what you need to do to prepare:

• Ball Control: Practice dribbling with both feet to get used to feeling the ball close to your body.
• Awareness: Keep your head up while dribbling, as you’ll need to know where the defenders are to pull off the move successfully.
• Body Balance: Work on your balance and footwork to make the turn quickly and smoothly.

3. How to Do the Cruyff Turn – Step by Step

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of the Soccer Cruyff Turn Guide in five simple steps:

Step 1: Approach the Defender

As you dribble the ball toward the defender, make it seem like you’re about to pass or shoot.

The defender should think you’re going forward, giving you the chance to fake them out.

• Key Tip: Approach under control and avoid going too fast so you can change direction quickly.

Step 2: Fake a Kick

Pretend you’re going to kick the ball forward, either to pass or shoot.

Swing your kicking leg back as if you’re about to strike the ball. This misleads the defender into thinking you’re moving forward.

• Key Pointer: Sell the fake! The more real your fake kick looks, the more effective the Cruyff Turn will be.

Step 3: Drag the Ball Back

Instead of kicking the ball, drag it behind your standing leg with the inside of your foot.

This pulls the ball in the opposite direction of where the defender expects it to go.

• Key Tip: Drag the ball quickly. A slow drag gives the defender time to react.

Step 4: Turn Your Body

While dragging the ball behind you, pivot your body in the direction of the ball.

You should now face the opposite way. This should be a swift turn so the defender can’t catch up.

• Key Hint: Maintain a low center of gravity and balance as you turn to stay in control.

Step 5: Accelerate Away

After you’ve turned, use your other foot to push the ball forward and accelerate away from the defender.

This is the final step, and you should be ready to pass, shoot, or continue dribbling.

• Key Tip: Be ready for your next move immediately after the turn. A quick sprint after the Cruyff Turn often creates space.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

To perfect your Cruyff Turn in football, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Dragging the ball too slowly: The turn works because of its speed. If you drag the ball too slowly, the defender will have time to react.
• Not faking the kick properly: A weak or unconvincing fake won’t fool the defender. Make the fake look like a real shot or pass.
• Losing balance: If you’re not balanced, you might fall or lose control of the ball. Practice the turn slowly at first to focus on balance.

5. How to Master the Cruyff Turn

Mastering the Cruyff Turn in soccer takes time and practice, but these tips will help you improve faster:

• Practice with both feet: Be comfortable performing the turn with either foot. This will give you more options in real games.
• Start slow, then speed up: Begin practicing the Cruyff Turn at a slow pace to perfect your technique. Once comfortable, increase your speed.
• Use cones or defenders: Set up cones to simulate defenders and practice turning in different situations. You can also practice with a teammate defending you one-on-one.
• Watch the pros: Study players like Johan Cruyff and Lionel Messi to see how they use the turn in real matches. Watch their body movements to help refine your own technique.

6. When to Use the Cruyff Turn in Real Games

The Cruyff Turn is versatile, but it works best in certain situations during a game:

• One-on-One Situations: Use it to beat a defender when you’re in a tight space or facing a direct challenge.
• Sideline Dribbling: If you’re near the sideline and running out of space, this turn can help you change direction and keep possession.
• Attacking Play: It’s useful in attacking situations when you need to create space for a pass, cross, or shot.

Conclusion: Master the Cruyff Turn in Soccer

The Cruyff Turn in soccer is a crucial skill every player should learn. It helps you keep control of the ball, trick defenders, and create space in tight situations.

With practice, you’ll be able to use the Cruyff Turn in football matches and surprise your opponents.

Remember:

• Perfect each step.
• Practice regularly to improve speed and confidence.
• Use the turn wisely in real games.

Follow this soccer Cruyff Turn guide, and soon you’ll be performing it like a pro!