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ShootingIntermediate

Shooting from Distance

Players strike the ball from 18–22 yards using the instep, aiming for power and placement. Great for U10–U12.

12 min
3–8 players
Goal, Goalkeeper, 6–8 balls, 2 cones

Objective

Develop a powerful, accurate driven shot from outside the penalty area using the instep.

Shooting from Distance youth soccer drill demonstration

Visual Concept

GKSLong-range shotShooting from DistancePower shots from outside the box

Top-down diagram — Shooting drill layout

Setup

Full-size goal with goalkeeper. Balls placed 18–22 yards from goal. Players line up behind the balls.

How to Run It

1

Approach angle

Player approaches the ball at a slight angle — 3–4 steps back and to the side of the non-kicking foot.

2

Strike technique

Plant foot beside the ball, lean slightly over it, strike with the laces through the centre, follow through fully.

3

Pick a corner

Before each shot, player points to which corner they're aiming for — builds intentional shooting.

4

Rebound round

If the keeper saves, the next player in line follows up for the rebound.

Coaching Cues

Lean over the ball — leaning back lifts it over the bar

Strike through the centre of the ball for a driven shot

Non-kicking arm out for balance during the approach

Follow through — your kicking foot should end up pointing at the target

Variations

  • Add a defender closing from 10 yards to create pressure
  • Limit to one touch — ball is rolled to the player by a feeder
  • Compete: first to score from distance 3 times wins

More Shooting Drills

Intermediate

Shooting Gallery

Players receive a pass from the side and shoot first-time at goal, alternating feet each rep.

12 min 4–8
View Drill
Advanced

Volley Practice

Coach or partner tosses the ball for players to volley on goal. Focus on technique and clean contact.

15 min 2–6
View Drill
Intermediate

1v1 vs Keeper

Attacker receives a through ball and must beat the goalkeeper in a 1v1 situation.

10 min 3–8
View Drill