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Skill · control

First touch to space

Receiving so your first touch takes the ball where you want to go next.

Watch a professional do it — UEFA Training Ground has this skill on video.

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How to do it

  1. 1 Watch the ball onto your foot.
  2. 2 Meet it with a soft, giving surface — do not stab at it.
  3. 3 Direct the touch into space, away from where a defender would be.
  4. 4 Your second touch is your pass or dribble.

How to practise it alone

Wall pass, but take your first touch sideways into a cone gate, then pass again. 30 each side. 'Good' is never needing a second touch to control it.

Common mistakes

  • Trapping it dead under your foot with a defender near.
  • Touching it too far and losing it.
  • Taking your eye off it early.