In this post, I’ll tell you ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW about the through ball in soccer.
Let’s start by looking at the definition of a through ball.
In soccer, a through ball is a pass played between two or more defenders and into open space behind them.
Unlike a regular pass, you don’t play a through ball at the feet of your teammate. Instead, you play it a little bit ahead of the running teammate.
Still confused? Don’t worry. By the end of this post, you’ll be an expert at through balls.
In this post I’ll cover:
- What EXACTLY is a through ball in soccer?
- Different types of through balls
- How to deliver the perfect through ball
- How to receive a through ball
- And more!
So, if you’re looking to understand what a through ball is and how to perfect it, you’re in the right place!
Let’s dive in!
What is a Through Ball in Soccer?
Let’s start with the basic definition of a through ball.
In soccer, a through ball is a pass played in between two or more defenders and into open space behind them.
The intent of the pass is to reach an attacking teammate who is making a run toward the opponent’s goal.
A through ball aims to bypass the entire defensive line. If successful, the attacker will find himself in a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper or in a very useful position to score.
Also, as I mentioned earlier. You don’t play a through ball at the feet of your teammate. Instead, you play it a little bit ahead of the running teammate.
This video will make it clearer.
Through balls are considered a high-risk, high-reward strategy. If successful, they can be devastating for the opposing team and lead to scoring opportunities.
But if the pass is intercepted or misplaced, it can result in a loss of possession and give the control back to the other team.
Key Characteristics of a Through Ball
Accuracy
The passer needs to place the ball EXACTLY in the intended space. Not too far ahead or behind the attacker.
This ensures the attacker doesn’t have to break stride to control it. It also minimizes the risk of interception.
Another factor in the accuracy of a through ball is the depth of the pass.
The passer should play the ball deep enough to put the attacker in a useful position. But, the pass should not be so deep that the attacker goes offside.
This depends on the attacker’s speed, the defensive line’s positioning, and the available space.
Weight
The weight of a pass means the power and control of a pass.
The passer needs to play the through ball with enough power to reach the attacker before a defender can react.
But, the passer should also make sure not to overhit the ball. The attacker should be able to control the ball with comfort.
Timing
A through ball is nothing without proper timing.
The passer needs to play the ball precisely when the attacker is making their run. This will ensure that the attacker is not caught offside.
Finding the perfect moment to play a through pass requires excellent awareness of the attacker’s movement.
Space
A through ball is meant to exploit a gap in the defense. The gap could be either between defenders or behind the defensive line.
The through ball should “thread the needle” through these gaps.
Different Types of Through Balls in Soccer
1. Ground Through Ball
A ground through ball is the most common type of through pass. The passer plays it along the ground with pace and precision.
The goal of a ground through ball is to bypass the defense and land at the feet of a teammate making a run.
2. Lobbed Through Ball
This pass goes over the defenders’ heads. A lobbed through ball helps to bypass a congested defense. It can also create space behind tall defenders.
3. Diagonal Through Ball
A diagonal through ball is played diagonally across the field. The passer plays the ball from the flank to a teammate making a diagonal run towards the goal.
This type of pass stretches the defense and creates space on the opposite side.
4. Driven Through Ball
A driven through ball is a powerful pass used to get past the defense quickly. The power of a driven through ball makes it hard for the defenders to react to the play.
It is ideal for counter-attacks or against a disorganized opposition.
How to Play the Perfect Through Ball
Preparing for the Pass
Before you execute a through ball, you need to prepare yourself for the pass. This includes scanning your environment and deciding the best course of action.
Let’s look at it in more detail.
Step 1: Be Aware of the Surroundings
Scan the field constantly. Always be on the lookout for potential gaps in the defense.
You should also look for your teammates’ runs and defender movement.
Step 2: Identify the Target
After you’ve got a good understanding of your surroundings, you need to identify your target.
Recognize which teammate is making the best run. Then calculate their speed and positioning before taking the next step.
Step 3: Assess the Gap
Now that you’ve got a target in your sight, look for a clear path for the ball to travel between defenders.
Consider the defenders’ positioning and potential closing speed.
Step 4: Create Space to Play the Pass
The final step to prepare for a through ball is to create some space for yourself.
Receive the ball cleanly and bring it under control with minimal touches. This will create space for you and allow you to deliver a more precise pass.
Executing the Pass
You’re now prepared to deliver the perfect through ball.
But only half of the work is done. Let’s look at how to execute the perfect pass.
Step 5: Body Positioning
Maintaining a good body position is vital to play any kind of pass in soccer.
First, turn your body towards the target teammate. Then, open your hips for a powerful strike.
Step 6: Choose the Technique
You also need to choose the type of through ball you want to play. It’ll come naturally if you’ve assessed the environment.
Depending on the distance and situation, choose between a driven pass, lobbed pass, diagonal pass, or splitting pass.
Step 7: Strike the Ball
The moment has finally come! It’s now time to strike the ball.
Use your preferred foot to strike the ball.
Also, decide the best foot surface to achieve the desired power and spin. Foot surfaces include your laces, instep, etc.
And REMEMBER. Aim for the space, not the teammate. Predict their run and play the ball in front of them.
Step 8: Follow Through
A lot of beginners ignore this step. But as in other sports, a good follow-through is important in soccer as well.
Extend your kicking leg and follow through with your full body to achieve maximum power and accuracy.
After the Pass
Congratulations! You’ve just delivered the perfect through ball.
But you can never wait to appreciate your pass in soccer. You need to be constantly moving.
Step 9: Track the Run
Keep your eyes on both the ball and your teammate.
Consider any changes in their run or defender positioning to make your next move.
Step 10: Anticipate the Outcome
Be prepared for different scenarios. It could be a successful run, an interception, or a loose ball.
Finally, adjust your position according to the situation.
It sounds like a lot of steps to kick a ball. I know.
But it seems like a long process on paper only. With practice and muscle memory, you’ll go through all these steps in a couple of seconds.
How to Receive a Through Ball in Soccer
We’ve looked at how to play the perfect through ball in soccer. But what if you’re on the receiving end of a through ball?
I’ve got you covered there as well. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering the art of receiving a through ball.
Prepare to Receive the Ball
It’s important to prepare yourself to receive the through ball. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Stay Alert and Scan the Field
Constantly scan the field. Predict what your teammates have in mind and the potential through ball coming your way.
Also, be aware of your position and offside line.
Step 2: Read the Play
Next, analyze the trajectory and speed of the pass. Is it a grounded pass, lob, or driven ball?
This will determine your first touch approach.
Step 3: Anticipate the Bounce
If the ball is bouncing, you need to predict its direction.
Then adjust your positioning to meet the ball at the optimal point.
Control the Ball
Your teammate has launched the through ball your way. Here are the steps to control the ball like an expert.
Step 4: Position Your Body
Angle your body towards the ball to create a larger receiving surface.
Also, open your hips for better control.
Step 5: Choose the Surface of your Foot to Receive the Ball
Depending on the ball’s pace and spin, use the appropriate surface to receive the ball.
You can use your laces, instep, thigh, or chest for a controlled first touch.
Step 6: Control the Power of the Touch
You don’t want the ball to get away from you. That’s why it’s important to control the power of your first touch.
Absorb the ball’s energy with your chosen surface. Aim for a soft and accurate reception.
Also, you don’t want to break your stride to control the ball. So, don’t trap the ball dead. Keep it moving forward.
After Receiving the Through Ball
Great! You’ve received the through ball. But the work isn’t done yet.
You also need to think about the next moves you’re going to make.
Step 7: Protect the Ball
Shield the ball with your body if defenders are closing down.
Use your positioning and upper body to create space and time
Step 8: Make a Decision
Quickly assess your options.
Can you dribble, pass, or shoot? Choose the action that creates the best scoring opportunity.
Tactical Applications of Through Ball in Soccer
A through ball can help your team get an edge over your opponents.
It’s an amazing tactical weapon that can dismantle even the tightest defenses.
Let’s see how a through ball improves soccer tactics.
Breaking Down Compact Defenses
Any good coach will tell you that the defense needs to be compact. This makes it hard for the attackers to get through.
But a through ball can help you with that.
When opponents crowd the midfield and box, a well-timed through ball can bypass their entire line.
As a result, it creates a one-on-one chance for your attacker.
This tactic works best if you have a pacey and agile attacker.
Exploiting Defensive Gaps and Disorganization
Teams often leave gaps in their defensive line. And you need to know how to use it to your advantage.
A through ball is your best weapon to exploit a gap in defense.
Look for these openings between defenders. The openings can be behind full-backs, or when defenders step out of position to press.
Creating Counter-Attacking Opportunities
You want to play quick and direct when the opposing team loses the ball. A through ball is your best friend in such situations.
During a counterattack, a through ball can catch the opponent off guard before they can react.
This tactic requires speed, precision, and anticipation of your attacker’s run.
Setting Up Teammates for One-on-One Situations
A through ball can put your teammate in a prime position to take on the goalkeeper. This creates a high-probability scoring chance.
To pull off the pass, you need to have good communication with your teammate.
You also need to have a good understanding of your teammate’s strengths and preferred running lines.
Stretching the Defense and Creating Space
Even if the through ball doesn’t directly result in a goal, it can force defenders to cover more ground. This opens up space for other attackers to operate in.
A through ball is also effective in creating overloads on one flank. It draws defenders out of position for a teammate to exploit the center of the pitch.
Changing the Point of Attack
A diagonal through ball switches the play from one flank to the other.
This catches the opposing defense off guard and creates confusion.
Changing the point of attack is useful in exploiting weaknesses on a specific side of the pitch.
It also disrupts the opponent’s defensive setup.
But KEEP IN MIND that a through ball is a risky pass to play. So weigh the risk versus reward every time you think of playing a through ball.
Simple Soccer Drills to Improve Your Through Ball
The through ball is a beautiful but challenging skill in soccer. It requires dedication, practice, and the right drills.
So, here are some effective drills to work on both passing and receiving a through ball.
Passing Drills
1. Through Ball Accuracy Drill
Line up four attackers against two defenders.
The four attackers have to pass from one side of the area to the other. They can do this by passing the ball between or around the two defenders in the middle.
Focus on accuracy and weight of the pass. And do not try to force the pass.
Also, use different techniques like laces, instep, etc. to hit the through balls.
2. Wall Passing Drill
Use a wall to practice one-touch passing. You can also use a partner for this drill.
Ensure that you control the the weight and direction of your through balls.
3. Small-Sided Games with Through Balls
Play modified games with limited space.
Emphasize quick transitions and through balls to create scoring opportunities.
4. Long Ball Target Practice
Set up target zones on the field. One central bullseye and two outer targets.
Players take turns to make four consecutive cross-field passes.
The goal is to land the ball as close to the central target as possible.
You can assign points for hitting the target to make the drill more fun.
As you get better, you can increase your distance from the target.
5. Diagonal Passing Drill
Divide players into pairs.
Start by facing each other. The first player will play a square pass to the second player.
The first player then runs onto the cone ahead.
The second player will play a diagonal through ball to the first player as the first player is running to the cone.
After playing the pass, the second player starts running towards the next cone.
The first player receives the pass and plays a square pass back to the second player.
You can gradually increase the distance and add defenders in the middle.
This will simulate switching the play and creating space.
Receiving Drills
1. Shadow Runs
Find an open area with plenty of space to run.
Imagine receiving a through ball from a teammate in a specific direction. It could be a diagonal run towards the goal or an overlapping run down the flank.
Start your run based on the imagined pass. Accelerate and maintain a good line of sight.
This drill helps with timing, positioning, and decision-making.
2. First Touch Control Drill
Have a partner stand opposite you (10-15m away).
Take turns passing different types of balls to each other. The passes can be laces, instep, lob, driven pass, etc.
Focus on taking a clean first touch that controls the ball and allows you to make a quick decision.
You can increase the distance and pace of the passes as you improve.
3. Defender Pressure Drill
Set up a small square area. The drill includes one defender, one passer, and one attacker.
The defender will stand slightly behind the attacker.
The passer plays a ball towards the attacker.
The defender then reacts to the pass and attempts to pressure the attacker.
The attacker must control the ball with a first touch and stop the defender from getting the ball.
Practice shielding the ball and creating space for yourself.
Also, try to change the type of pass. The passer can choose to play a ground pass, lob, or driven pass.
You can also introduce a fourth player to receive the attacker’s pass after the first touch.
How to Defend a Through Ball in Soccer
I’ve talked about the effectiveness of a through ball in this post. But it’s not an invincible weapon.
Here are some key strategies for defenders to counter this threat.
Positioning
1. Maintain a good defensive line
All the defenders should be in sync to maintain a good defensive line. All the defenders need to play in a straight line to catch the attacker offside.
A good defensive line also reduces the space behind your defense for through balls.
2. Cover gaps between defenders
The attacking team plays through balls to exploit the gaps in the defense. So, how do you counter it?
Simple. Don’t give the attacking team any gaps to play the through ball.
Communicate and adjust your positions to close any openings that could be exploited by a through ball.
3. Mark attackers tightly
Don’t give attackers too much space to make runs or receive passes.
Also, be prepared to challenge them aggressively if they try to break free.
4. Anticipate runs
Watch the attacker’s movements and body language to predict where they might run for a through ball.
This will keep you a step ahead of the attacker and make it difficult to play a through ball.
Communication
5. Constant dialogue
Talk to your teammates and point out potential threats and gaps.
Alert each other about attackers making runs.
6. Coordinate pressing
If possible, double-team the player receiving the through ball.
This will make it harder for them to control the ball and create an attack.
Tactical awareness
7. Recognize the attacker’s strengths
Is the attacker known for their pace, dribbling ability, or finishing skills?
Know everything you can about the attacker before the game. Then adjust your defending style accordingly.
8. Identify the type of through ball
To defend effectively, you need to predict what type of through ball is going to be played.
Is it a ground pass, lob, or driven ball?
This will prepare you to change your approach and positioning.
Additional Tips
- Watch professional games and analyze how defenders handle through balls.
- Practice defending against through balls in drills with your team.
- Don’t be afraid to commit to a tackle if you have a good chance of winning the ball.
If you follow all these guidelines, you’ll stop a through ball from causing any problems.
Also, PRACTICE defending against through balls in your practice sessions. Add defenders into the through ball drills we discussed earlier.
Thank You For Reading
So I hope you enjoyed learning about the through ball in soccer. If you did, then do consider sharing it with fellow soccer enthusiasts.
Your support and sharing of this content can help us reach a wider audience. It can also provide valuable information to more people who share our passion for the beautiful game.
I’d also like to hear what you have to say…
What type of pass do you prefer to play? A lobbed pass? A through ball? Or do you prefer to keep it simple?
Do you think defending against a through ball is easy? Why? Why not?
Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below right now.
And thank you for supporting Soccer Mavericks!
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