The Rabona

Category: Tips and Tricks

First introduced by the Italian player Giovanni Roccotelli in the 1970s, the “Rabona” is a flashy way to pass, shoot, or cross the ball. It has become very popular now with players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. The rabona is also a dance step in the tango and adopted its name from soccer!

This type of trick takes much practice and, most likely, quite a few falls. In order to perform the “rabona”, a player swings the kicking foot behind the standing/supporting foot. When done correctly, the player’s legs would be crossed one behind the other when the ball is hit.

For right-footed players, the ball would be positioned on the outside of the left foot and then struck with the right foot. For left-footed players, the ball would be positioned on the outside of the right foot and then struck with the left foot.

Please watch the following video for an example of this trick: