The Importance of a Good First Touch
Your first touch dictates what happens next. A great first touch buys you time and space, while a poor one puts you instantly under pressure. Here are 10 drills you can practice to perfect this essential skill.
1. The Wall Pass
Find a solid wall. Pass the ball against it firmly and focus on cushioning the rebound with the inside of your foot. Start close and gradually move further back as your control improves.
2. Juggling
Simple but effective. Juggling improves your spatial awareness, coordination, and feel for the ball. Try to keep it up using only your feet, then incorporate your thighs and chest.
3. High Balls
Throw the ball high into the air. Track its flight and try to bring it down dead with one touch. Use your instep, laces, and chest depending on the trajectory.
4. The Triangle
Set up three cones in a triangle. Have a partner pass to you, and take your first touch to direct the ball around one of the cones before passing back. This simulates receiving under pressure.
5. Over the Shoulder
Have a server stand behind you and throw the ball over your shoulder. You must turn quickly, locate the ball, and bring it under control immediately. This builds reaction speed.
6. Directional First Touch
Instead of stopping the ball dead, practice taking your first touch into space. This helps you escape markers and immediately launch attacks.
7. Weaker Foot Focus
Spend 10 minutes exclusively using your weaker foot for all receiving drills. A truly elite player is comfortable taking a touch with either foot.
8. The Bounce Pass
Have a partner bounce the ball towards you. Learn to read the spin and bounce to control it smoothly without letting it pop up.
9. Receiving on the Turn
Receive the ball with your back to the imaginary goal. Your first touch should allow you to spin 180 degrees and face forward in one fluid motion.
10. Pressure Drills
Have a defender close you down as the ball is played to you. This is the ultimate test of your first touch in match-like scenarios.
