There are two teams in a soccer game and they face each other on a field, with the goal boxes placed at opposite ends of the field. Therefore, the players must compete to get possession of the ball in the opposite team’s territory and eventually shoot it into the goal to score a point. [1] X Research source A typical game involves one team dribbling (running with the ball at their feet) the ball up the field and passing it amongst each other to get it close enough for one player to shoot a goal. The opposite team also tries to take possession throughout so oftentimes the ball moves throughout both sides of the field.
Players also cannot tackle, push, hit, or otherwise intentionally hurt or sabotage their opponents. If the ball goes out of the field, the team that caused the ball to go out loses possession and the other team is allowed to kick or throw the ball back into the game. However, indoor soccer differs in this respect as, depending on the venue, it is often impossible for the ball to go out of the field as it simply bounces back in off the walls.
Two people are assigned in the defense position and help the goalie prevent the opposing team from scoring a goal. Two other players start by standing a few feet in front of the defenders and they are known as forwards. They are on the offensive, meaning they work to play the ball into the opposite side of the field to score a goal. One person plays midfielder and begins at the very front and center of their team’s side of the field. This person plays both forward and defense as needed. The same rules apply to each player regardless of their position with the only exception being the goalkeeper (also known as a goalie). The goalie is the last line of defense against the opposing team and is allowed to use their hands to catch or block the ball from going into the goal box. [2] X Research source
A kickoff is when both teams take their positions on their halves of the field with the ball at the center of the field and two players on either side. Once the referee calls the game into play, the two players try to take possession of the ball first. A kickoff begins the game and also restarts it after a goal has been scored.
Referees can give out different cards when someone has broken the rules of the game, which is known as a “foul. ” When the referee sees a player fouling (by pushing another player for example), they can give the player a yellow card which indicates a warning. If a player gets two yellow cards, they are ejected from the game and the team must play on without a substitute player. If a referee decides a player has committed a number of fouls or one that indicates extremely poor sportsmanship, he can give a player a red card which automatically ejects them from the game. [4] X Research source
The players that would normally be considered defense or forward have more flexibility in their roles and can play both offensive and defensive roles. Basically, all players (including the goalie) have more freedom to move around in the arena and are less bound to one specific function in the game.
Players can be substituted at any point during the game. For example, with indoor soccer the game continues without any penalties or stoppage if the ball hits the walls enclosing the field. The game simply continues with each player rushing to take possession of the ball. This practice is known as “play off the walls. ”[5] X Research source Only if the ball goes over the walls and out of the field entirely is there a stoppage and the team that didn’t strike out the ball is allowed to throw or punt it back in (as in outdoor soccer). However, some indoor arenas have walls that completely enclose the area, in which case it is impossible for the ball to go out of bounds.
For example, standard rules of no contact apply in indoor soccer. You cannot hit, intentionally kick, or otherwise physically obstruct another player during the game. The method of scoring a goal is also the same. To score a goal, a player must kick the ball into the opposing team’s goal box, passing over the goal line, between the posts, and under the crossbar. If the referee calls a foul for breaking a rule (such as using your hands), the same rule of a free kick on the part of the opposite team applies.
If a professional indoor soccer game is tied, there can be two extra fifteen minute halves of playtime with the agreement that the team that scores a goal first wins the game.
Lightweight sneakers or running shoes can also work in a pinch, but you will not have the same speed and ease of movement.
Focus on making quick passes and small, controlled movements with your feet until playing faster comes naturally. Be more verbally communicative. Because the game is so fast and you are in an enclosed space, expect to talk to your teammates more. Oftentimes you may deliver a pass only to find yourself in a great spot to receive the ball again. In these moments, it’s best to yell “pass” or otherwise let your teammates know where you are positioned.
Practice shooting on your own or with a buddy. Try different shots, such as always aiming for just below the crossbar (requiring the goalie to jump in order to block it).
Practice intentionally kicking the ball against the wall to either pass it to someone or to get past the opposite team. Be patient with yourself however, as this is a very complex skill that will take lots of practice to develop over time.
Running (including sprints), lifting weights, and doing other exercises that build your muscles and also increase your speed will help you improve as an indoor soccer player.
For example, when shooting the ball, try doing a toe-kick. Since distance isn’t as much of a factor in shooting, shooting the ball using your toes will cause the ball to suddenly jump upwards, which can fool the goalie into not blocking it in time. Instead of passing the ball directly to where a team player is standing, pass the ball into the space where the player is most likely to get possession. The player will be able to see the ball’s course and get likely get there in time to take possession before the opposing team can steal the ball. [7] X Research source Another great skill is the Drag Back. To do a Drag Back, roll the ball back under your foot (as opposed to dribbling it forward) and bring it closer to yourself. By doing this, you are protecting possession and also giving yourself more opportunities to either move the ball in a different direction or do a quick pass. [8] X Research source
