A turn changes the direction of play when the route ahead is blocked or a better option appears elsewhere. Players do not need a collection of elaborate tricks to begin. A few comfortable actions, used after checking the space, can be enough. This guide focuses on reversing or changing direction; beating an opponent while moving forwards is covered in our separate dribbling guide.
Check where the turn will take you
Before turning, notice the space behind and beside you. A technically tidy move can still take the ball towards another opponent. Begin with a clear exit and explore the action slowly, then introduce a partner who closes one route.
Set two gates a few steps apart in a safe area. Carry the ball towards a marker, turn and leave through a gate. The marker is a location cue, not a defender: later, use an opponent so the player learns when the move helps.
How to do a drag back
Place the sole lightly on the ball and draw it backwards while turning the body towards the intended exit. Take the next touch into the new direction. Start from stillness before trying it while moving.
If the ball gets trapped underneath, make the pull slightly clearer and give the standing foot room to turn. Avoid leaning back or trying to rotate quickly on a planted foot. Keep movements comfortable and stop if something hurts.
How to do an inside hook
Move towards the ball, bring the inside of the foot around its far side and guide it back across the body into a new direction. Turn with it and take a controlled next touch.
A common difficulty is hooking the ball behind the standing leg so it becomes hard to reach. Start with a small change of direction, then explore a larger turn once the player can leave smoothly.
How to do a Cruyff turn
Shape as though you may pass or cross. Use the inside of that foot to guide the ball behind the supporting leg, then turn and follow it into the new space. Begin at walking pace without an opponent.
The disguise matters only if there is a believable passing or crossing option. Do not demand a large swing or dramatic body movement. A small, balanced action can be easier to control and recover from.
Add an opponent and a reason
Ask a partner to approach slowly towards one gate. The player can continue if it remains open or turn towards the other gate. Initially, the partner shadows without tackling. Later, allow a controlled attempt to win the ball.
Do not tell the player which turn to use on every attempt. Ask what she saw and whether the ball stayed reachable. She may discover that a simple inside hook works better than a Cruyff turn in a particular space.
Questions players often ask
Which turn is best? The one that suits the pressure, available space and next action. Must she use both feet? Explore both, but allow different rates of progress. Does a turn need to look fast? A slower turn that retains possession may be useful.
How does it reach matches? Choose a recognisable moment, such as a blocked forward route near the touchline, and look for an opportunity in club training. There is no need to force the turn when a simple pass is already available.
FROM READING TO PLAYING
Something to try
Explore each turn without pressure, then let a partner close one of two exits. Choose the action that preserves the available route. Finish by describing when a turn helped and when continuing forwards was easier.
Take it into your football
- Check the exit before turning.
- Learn slowly enough to keep balance.
- Choose the turn for the situation, not its name.
Further reading
Explore related guidance from these primary sources. Practice examples and suggested conversations on this page are STAR’s own guidance.
Explore girls’ football coaching in Taunton, Bridgwater and Wellington.
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