How to Do a Cruyff Turn

Johan Cruyff, the Dutch soccer maestro who is responsible for the sublime piece of skill known as the Cruyff Turn, was undoubtedly one of the game's great players. He won numerous team championships, including three European Cups with Ajax of Amsterdam, as well as individual accolades including European Footballer of the Year in 1971, 1973 and 1974. Hailed as the successor to Pele's dominance of world soccer, Johan Cruyff helped revolutionize the game with skills and tricks that are now the staple moves of every great player today.

Things You'll Need

  • Soccer ball
  • Open space
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Instructions

    • 1

      Align your body and feet like you are going to pass to a teammate or cross the soccer ball into the opposing goalkeeper's area. The Cruyff Turn is effective in motion and from stationary positions, so practice with the ball rolling slowly in front of you as well as while standing in place.

    • 2

      Sell the fake. The Cruyff Turn is used to fake out your opponent and gain an advantageous position. Make it look like you are going to strike the pass or cross, but do not kick the ball at first.

    • 3

      Drag the ball behind your standing leg with the inside of your striking foot. This is the part where particular skill is required to gently maneuver the ball after first faking. Practice slowing down your striking leg right before contact is made with the ball.

    • 4

      Pivot on your standing leg so your body is between the defender and the ball, and you are now running onto the ball. If you have faked well enough, your defender should be nowhere near you. Regardless, it is always good practice to protect the ball.

    • 5

      Sprint away from your defender. Now that you have twisted your opponent inside out, get away from him as quickly as possible and give yourself space to make something good happen for your team. Pass or cross the ball, or take a shot if the opportunity presents itself.