One of the most common problems soccer players face is losing possession because of a poor first touch. A heavy touch can let defenders intercept, slow down play, or break the flow of an attack. Players who can’t control the ball quickly often find themselves rushed and frustrated during games.
The first touch passing drill is a simple but powerful way to solve this problem. By practicing this drill regularly, players improve ball control, passing accuracy, decision-making speed, and game awareness. These skills are vital at every level of the game, from young beginners to advanced competitive players.
Drill setup
To run the first touch passing drill, you don’t need much equipment.
- Equipment needed: 1 soccer ball and 2 cones (or markers). For partners, you’ll need 2–3 players. If training solo, use a rebounder, wall, or solid surface.
- Setup: Place the cones about 5–10 yards apart to mark passing distance. If working with a partner, each player stands behind a cone. If practicing alone, stand near one cone and use a wall or rebounder at the other end.
This setup creates a focused environment for repetitive passing and receiving practice.
Step-by-step instructions
Repeat continuously for several minutes.
Build rhythm and consistency. With partners, alternate which foot receives and which foot passes to improve versatility.
Stand behind the cone with the ball.
Position yourself so the cone acts as a marker for spacing. Keep a light stance on your toes and be ready to move.
Pass the ball to your partner or rebounder.
Make a controlled, accurate pass directly toward their feet or the wall. Focus on technique, not power.
Receive the return ball with your first touch.
Cushion the ball with the inside, outside, or sole of your foot. Direct it slightly to the side to prepare for your next pass.
Play the second touch as a pass.
Use your next touch to pass the ball back quickly. The goal is smooth, two-touch play: one to control, one to pass.
Skills developed
Mastering the first touch passing drill goes beyond just moving the ball. With consistent practice, players trains their mind and body to respond quickly, make smarter decisions, and handle the fast pace of real-game situations.
Awareness and positioning
Constant adjustments around the cone encourage players to stay alert, adjust body shape, and think ahead of the ball.
Ball control
First touch passing sharpens the ability to control the ball instantly under pressure. A soft, accurate first touch sets up smoother play.
Passing accuracy
Repetition develops precise, reliable passing. Players learn to strike the ball cleanly and hit the intended target.
Decision-making speed
Since players must control and pass quickly, the drill trains faster thinking and execution during matches.
Coaching tips
Keep your head up. Encourage players to glance up while controlling the ball to build awareness.
Stay on your toes. Always be ready to move and adjust to the ball. Flat feet means slow reaction time.
Angle your body. Receive the ball slightly sideways to prepare for the next pass.
Use both feet. Alternate receiving and passing with left and right to avoid dependency.
Focus on technique, not power. A smooth pass is more effective than a hard, wild one.
Variations for progression
Pass-and-move combination. After passing, sprint to another cone before receiving again.
One-touch passing. Skip the control touch and pass back immediately to increase speed and challenge.
Weak-foot only. Restrict the drill to the non-dominant foot for stronger development.
Increase distance. Move cones further apart to challenge passing strength and accuracy.
Add movement. After each pass, shuffle sideways around the cone or move into a new space.
Common mistakes and fixes
Poor body positioning → Teach players to angle their body before the ball arrives.
Heavy first touch → Remind players to cushion the ball softly, using relaxed contact.
Standing flat-footed → Encourage active footwork and readiness before receiving.
Passing too hard or soft → Emphasize consistent, firm passes that are easy to control.
Relying only on one foot → Force alternating touches to improve balance and confidence.
Who this drill Is best for
Ages 5–10: This drill is perfect for young beginners developing their first soccer skills. It builds confidence with the ball, teaches control, and creates strong habits through fun and simple repetition.
Teens: For teenage players, this drill sharpens speed of play, improves passing under pressure, and prepares them for the faster pace of competitive matches where quick decisions matter most.
Adults: Adult players, whether recreational or competitive, benefit from refining technique, improving first touch consistency, and staying sharp in possession. It’s a great way to cut out sloppy touches and play with more composure.
How to track progress
Add difficulty levels. Track consistency as you progress from two-touch to one-touch passing.
Count successful passes. Track how many clean two-touch passes can be made in a row without mistakes.
Set time challenges. See how many passes can be completed in 30 or 60 seconds.
Track weak foot performance. Record the number of accurate passes made with the weaker foot.
Increase distance gradually. Note progress as passing accuracy improves at longer ranges.
Conclusion
The first touch passing drill is one of the most effective ways to build confidence, control, and composure in soccer. By focusing on quick control and precise passing, players prepare themselves for real-game pressure where time and space are limited.
Consistency is the key. Practicing this drill regularly sharpens control, improves decision-making speed, and develops awareness. These are all essential qualities for success on the field. Keep the drill fun, push your limits, and you’ll see real results in both training and matches.
