Ask most players what they want to work on and they'll say shooting. The instinct is to blast the ball as hard as possible — but accuracy wins far more games than power. This drill trains you to pick a spot and hit it; with good technique, the power comes on its own.
What it builds
Shooting accuracy, striking technique, and the habit of choosing a target before you pull the trigger. It also trains composure — the ability to slow down in front of goal instead of rushing.
(ad slot — replace with your ad code once approved)
How to set it up
Place two targets in the goal — cones in the bottom corners, or aim for the junction of post and crossbar. Set a ball at the edge of the box.
How to do it
- Pick a target before you start your run-up.
- Plant your non-kicking foot beside the ball, pointing at the target.
- Strike through the middle of the ball with your laces, ankle firm.
- Aim low and accurate — low shots are much harder for a keeper to reach.
Know your finishes
Different situations call for different strikes:
- Side-foot placement: for accuracy from close range. Pass it into the corner rather than blasting it.
- Laces drive: for power from distance. Lock the ankle and follow through.
- Low and hard: the highest-percentage finish at any level — keepers struggle most with shots to the bottom corners.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Leaning back. This sends the ball over the bar. Keep your head and chest over the ball to keep it down.
- Choosing power over placement. A well-placed 70% shot beats a wild 100% one every time.
- Deciding late. Pick your target early so you're not adjusting at the last second.
- Wrong plant foot. If your standing foot points away from goal, the shot follows. Point it at your target.
Tips
- Accuracy first. Call the corner out loud before each shot.
- A short, controlled follow-through beats a wild swing.
- Keep your head steady and eyes on the ball at contact.
Watch it in action
Variations to keep progressing
- On the move: add a dribble before the shot instead of striking a still ball.
- Off a pass: have someone roll it in from the side so you finish a moving ball.
- One-touch: strike first time — the most game-realistic finish of all.
- Weak foot: take a full set of shots with your weaker foot. Defenders punish one-footed players.
How often to practise
Quality beats quantity with shooting. Twenty focused, well-struck shots per session, two or three times a week, will do more than a hundred rushed ones. Rest between shots so each one is deliberate.
(ad slot — replace with your ad code once approved)
Build up with our cone weave and wall passing drills, and gear up from our soccer range.