What Is Trapping In Soccer? Types & Techniques In 2024
Soccer is a tough sport that needs excellent skillset, agility, speed, and endurance. There are many maneuverings in this sport that professional players execute on the ground. But do you know what trapping is and how to perfect it in soccer games?
Trapping in soccer is the ability to control a ball that is moving through the air or on the ground and bringing it to a stop with your feet, chest, or other parts of your body.
Trapping is an essential skill in soccer, such as juggling a soccer ball, especially if you are aiming to become a pro player. It enables players to keep possession of the ball and create scoring opportunities.
Meaning and Origin of Trapping
The term trapping in soccer comes from the verb “to trap,” which means to catch or seize something. In soccer, trapping is the skill of stopping or controlling the ball with your body.
Trapping is believed to have originated in Europe during the Middle Ages, where it was played as a street game.
There are mentions of trapping and similar techniques in many of the oldest sports. But it is now primarily used in modern soccer.
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Different Types of Trapping
Trapping is allowed legally in soccer if any player uses just four body parts. It follows a similar rule of tackling in soccer. And four types of trapping are.
- Foot Trap: Stopping the ball with your feet is the most common form of trapping. This can be done by cushioning the ball with the inside or outside of your foot.
- Chest Trap: Players can also trap the ball with their chests by positioning themselves in front of the ball and using their chest to absorb the impact.
- Thigh Trap: Trapping with the thigh is often used when the ball is traveling at a higher speed or when the player needs to control the ball quickly.
- Header Trap: Advanced players can also trap the ball with their heads, which requires a high level of skill and coordination.
Some of the tallest soccer players also use a combination method of chest and foot to get an advantage. They are taller than their opponents and have an aerial advantage.
How to Decide When to Trap the Ball?
Deciding when to trap the ball depends on the situation. If you are in a crowded area, it may be best to trap the ball to keep possession.
However, if you have space, you may want to take a touch or dribble the ball instead. Many strong soccer players even trap in a corner-kick situation, as they can overcome the difficulty with their sheer strength.
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5 Players Known for Trapping
Some of the greatest soccer players are known for their amazing ball control ability and excellent maneuvering. But some players took it to a new height. Some of the current players with amazing trapping abilities are:
- Lionel Messi
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Neymar Jr.
- Kylian Mbappe
- Robert Lewandowski
Many retired soccer players, such as Andres Iniesta and Xavi Hernandez, are also known for their iconic chest and aerial trapping skills in their heydays.
Step-by-Step Guide to Learn Trapping
If you are a newbie in professional soccer, or if you are aiming to become a pro player, it is necessary for you to practice your trapping skill. So, here goes a comprehensive guide for you:
- Position yourself in front of the ball.
- Keep your eyes on the ball at all times.
- Move your body into the path of the ball.
- Cushion the ball with the desired part of your body (foot, chest, thigh, or head).
- Absorb the impact of the ball with your body.
- Use your body to control the ball and bring it to a stop.
- Keep your head up and be aware of your surroundings.
If you are training at any good sports academies, you can also ask your coach to help you perfect your trapping skills.
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Final Note
Trapping is an essential skill in soccer that requires practice and patience. By mastering the different types of trapping and knowing when to use them, players can improve their ability to control the ball and create scoring opportunities.
With dedication and hard work, anyone can learn how to trap the ball and become a better soccer player. That’s all for today! Feel free to drop your queries and start a conversation with us in the comment box below.