Striker Movement Tips: Attack One-on-One
Every striker eventually faces a lone defender with grass ahead. Winning that duel comes down to tempo, disguise, and using your body as a shield. Follow this six-step routine any time you attack 1v1 and the defender never knows if you will burst past, feint, or slip the ball away to a teammate.
Six habits for 1v1 dominance
- First touch at the defender. Your first touch should drive straight at the marker to pin them in place. If there is no room behind, protect the ball and recycle rather than hesitating in front of them.
- Accelerate while dribbling tight. Close the gap quickly with rapid, controlled touches so the defender has no time to set their stance.
- Change your line. Vary the dribble path—two steps left, then snap back right—to unsettle their balance.
- Execute a decisive move. Whether it is a stepover, drag-and-go, or shoulder fake, commit fully so the defender reacts.
- Guard the ball with your upper body. If they recover, slide your shoulder between the ball and the challenge to maintain possession.
- Explode once you are past. The moment you beat the man, sprint clear so recovery tackles cannot arrive.
Mistakes to avoid
- Losing tempo and allowing the defender to reset.
- Telegraphing the exit side or performing a trick too early/late.
- Dwelling on the ball when the route is blocked—reset instead.
Once the defender is gone, pick the right end product. Shoot if the goal opens, slide a teammate through, or maintain possession until support arrives. The best strikers rehearse these choices until they become automatic.
Keep sharpening your 1v1 work: share your favourite clips or questions with us on Facebook, or tag @footballtechnik on Instagram so we can highlight your progress.
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