Soccer Tricks: The Drag Back

The Drag Back is a popular soccer trick which can be used to quickly change direction and avoid an opponent. With this article, we’ll provide step by step instructions as well as a video example.

Drag Back while running

Step 1

Drag Back Running Step 1

While you’re dribbling and at the moment you decide to change direction, place your planting foot near the side of the ball. Then place the foot you’re dragging back with on top of the ball. Make sure you place it in the center of the ball. If you place it too far to the front, back, left or right, you may not get a good grip on the ball.

Step 2

Drag Back Running Step 2

Now drag the ball back in the opposite direction you were going and continue dribbling in that direction with speed to get away from your opponent.

Drag Back while standing still

Step 1

Drag Back Still Step 1

Because you’re standing still, you need to lead your opponent into thinking you’re dribbling in a certain direction. So begin dribbling in a specific direction.

Step 2

Drag Back Still Step 2

Place your planting foot near the side of the ball. Then place the foot you’re dragging back with on top of the ball. Make sure you place it in the center of the ball. If you place it too far to the front, back, left or right, you may not get a good grip on the ball.

Step 3

Drag Back Still Step 3

Drag the ball back a bit and then using the opposite foot, begin dribbling in the other direction with speed to get away from your opponent.

Below is a video example: