There is a lot of conventional wisdom surrounding goal scoring that is passed down from generation to generation. Some of it is true, while other parts do not hold up to closer scrutiny. We have taken a closer look at five common myths.
Myth 1: "A good shot must be powerful"
Partially false. Power helps, but placement is more important. A powerful shot hit straight at the goalkeeper is usually saved. A placed shot into the bottom corner, on the other hand, is difficult to parry even with moderate power because the goalkeeper has further to travel. Many professionals deliberately avoid shooting with full power in one-on-one situations, choosing instead to focus on the corner.
Myth 2: "Volleys are purely a matter of talent"
False. Of course, there are players with a special touch for the ball. But the volley is a technique that can be learned just like any other. The keys are a clean movement sequence and plenty of repetition. Anyone who practices regularly will become significantly more confident, regardless of their starting level.
Myth 3: "You have to look at the goal when shooting"
False, at least at the crucial moment. You should memorize your target before the shot. However, at the moment of contact, your eyes should be on the ball. If you look up too early, your body posture changes and the ball will be inaccurate. Professionals usually look at the ball when striking it, even if it looks different on television.
Myth 4: "You don't shoot with your toe"
Mostly true, but not always. Toe-poking is inaccurate and is therefore not taught in training. However, in certain situations, such as when the ball needs to be fired at goal in a split second in tight spaces, it can be the best solution. In futsal, the toe-poke is even part of the standard repertoire because it requires no backswing and catches the goalkeeper off guard.
Myth 5: "If you score in training, you'll score in the game"
Not automatically. During a game, pressure, fatigue, and opponents come into play. Those who only practice in a relaxed atmosphere often cannot execute the technique under stress. That is why it is worth making training progressively more game-realistic: first practicing the technique in isolation, then under time pressure, then after physical exertion, and finally with an opponent.
What really counts
When you put these myths aside, a few simple truths remain:
- Precision beats power.
- Your eyes belong on the ball the moment you shoot.
- A firm ankle and a stable standing leg are the foundation.
- Repetition is the key, starting under simple conditions and then moving to more difficult ones.
How to structure your training
Start with a ball sitting still at a fixed height. This allows you to focus entirely on your technique. With the VOLLEYCHAMP®, you can do this without a partner: the ball is ready for you at a height of 10, 20, or 30 cm. Once you have mastered the movement, increase the difficulty with thrown balls, time pressure, and fatigue.
Bonus myth: "Left-footers have a more beautiful shot"
A myth that persists stubbornly. In fact, shots from left-footers often appear unusual and therefore particularly elegant to many spectators, simply because most players are right-footed. However, there is no scientific evidence for this. In the end, beauty is whatever goes in.
A test for your next training session
Test the first myth yourself: Shoot ten balls with full power and ten at about 70 percent, but aimed at a bottom corner. Count how many of each go in. Most players are surprised at how much more accurate the second series is.
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