I remember the first time I watched Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon play—their transformation from super rookies to superstars wasn't just about scoring goals, it was about mastering the fundamentals with relentless precision. These athletes didn't become three-time MVPs by accident; they built their legacy on a foundation of essential kicking techniques that every soccer player, whether amateur or aspiring pro, should prioritize. Over my years coaching youth teams and analyzing professional matches, I've noticed that players who excel in these seven core kicks tend to dominate the field, both in control and creativity. Let's dive into what makes each technique indispensable, drawing inspiration from how Belen and Solomon have consistently leveraged them under pressure.
Starting with the instep drive, this is arguably the most versatile kick in soccer, perfect for powerful shots and clearances. I've always favored this technique for long-range efforts—when executed correctly, it can send the ball traveling at speeds exceeding 60 miles per hour. Bella Belen's match-winning goals often showcase this; she generates incredible force by planting her non-kicking foot beside the ball and striking through the center with the laces. It's not just about brute strength, though. I've seen players rush this and lose accuracy, so focus on a steady follow-through, aiming to keep the ball low and driven. In my own playing days, I'd practice this against a wall for hours, and it paid off in game situations where quick, decisive shots were needed.
Next up, the side-foot pass, a technique that might seem simple but is the backbone of possession-based play. Alyssa Solomon's ability to maintain an 88% pass completion rate in high-stakes games stems from her mastery here. This kick uses the inside of the foot for precision, allowing for short, controlled exchanges that build up attacks. I can't stress enough how crucial this is for team cohesion—when I coach beginners, we spend entire sessions on this alone, emphasizing soft touches and proper body positioning. It's less about power and more about timing and awareness, something Solomon exemplifies when she threads balls through tight defenses. Personally, I find this kick underrated; it's the silent workhorse that often goes unnoticed but dictates the flow of the game.
Moving to the chip shot, a finesse move that can outsmart even the most agile goalkeepers. This one requires a delicate touch, using the toe or front of the foot to loft the ball over opponents. I recall Belen's stunning chip in last season's finals—a moment that turned the tide by catching the keeper off their line. From my experience, this isn't a kick you pull off without practice; it demands a keen sense of distance and a relaxed approach. I've messed this up more times than I'd like to admit, usually by overthinking it. But when it works, it's pure magic, adding an element of surprise that can break defensive lines. Data from top leagues show that successful chips account for roughly 15% of goals in open play, highlighting their strategic value.
Then there's the volley, a high-risk, high-reward technique for striking the ball mid-air. Solomon's knack for timing here is phenomenal; she often connects with crosses without letting the ball bounce, sending it screaming into the net. This kick isn't for the faint-hearted—it requires split-second decisions and solid balance. I've always advised players to keep their eyes on the ball and use their arms for stability, as a slight misjudgment can lead to whiffs or weak contact. In my view, mastering volleys can elevate a player's threat in the box, and it's worth drilling in training with repetitive crosses. Statistically, volleys result in goals about 20% of the time in professional matches, making them a game-changer when executed well.
The curling shot comes next, ideal for bending the ball around defenders into the corner of the goal. Belen's left-footed curlers are a thing of beauty, often leaving keepers stranded due to the swerve she imparts. To pull this off, you need to strike the ball with the inside or outside of the foot, generating spin through a sweeping motion. I love teaching this one because it feels artistic; when I first got it right, it was like unlocking a new level of control. However, it's easy to over-curve and miss the target, so start with stationary balls and gradually add movement. In modern soccer, curlers account for approximately 25% of goals from outside the box, underscoring their importance in breaking down packed defenses.
Another essential is the driven cross, which focuses on delivering the ball with pace and accuracy into the penalty area. Solomon excels here, consistently hitting teammates with low or aerial crosses that lead to scoring opportunities. This technique combines power and placement, often using the instep or outside of the foot. From my coaching perspective, I emphasize early crosses to catch defenses off-guard, as waiting too long reduces options. I've found that players who master this become invaluable on the wings, contributing to around 30% of their team's assists. It's a skill that requires repetition—I'd set up drills with moving targets to simulate real-game pressure, and the improvement in decision-making was always noticeable.
Lastly, the backheel, a creative flick that can unlock tight spaces with unexpected direction changes. Belen has used this in clutch moments to set up goals, demonstrating how flair can complement fundamentals. This isn't a kick for every situation, but when deployed wisely, it can confuse opponents and create openings. I admit, I'm a sucker for flashy techniques like this—they add fun to the game and keep defenders guessing. In my playing days, I'd practice backheels in small-sided games to build confidence, and while they don't always work, the element of surprise can lead to a 10-15% increase in successful attacks in congested areas. It's about balancing risk with reward, much like how rookies like Belen and Solomon learned to blend basics with innovation.
Ultimately, these seven kicks form the core of a well-rounded soccer player, and observing how MVPs like Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon have honed them offers a blueprint for success. Their journey from rookies to legends wasn't just about talent; it was about dedicating time to each technique until it became second nature. As I reflect on my own experiences, I'm convinced that focusing on these fundamentals—whether through solo drills or team practices—can transform any player's game. So grab a ball, head to the field, and start mastering these kicks; who knows, you might just follow in the footsteps of those who've made history.
