Title: How to Curl a Free Kick - with help from Fernando Torres
Dazzle your mates with this easy 'how to guide' to bend a soccer ball.
If you can do this whilst the ball is moving - you're a better footballer than I - invariably I the ball shoots off to the corner flag !
Beginners should try this when the ball is stationery and not rolling. Follow these instructions in conjunction with the video above.
1. The Approach:
If we are taking a free kick on the edge of the penalty area, approach the ball towards the direction of the corner flag. Approach the ball in a relaxed way as this will give you enough time to execute the free kick.
2. The Contact:
If you hit the ball with your instep (where your laces are) it would go out for a throw in or hit the corner flag ! Therefore hit the ball with the inside of your big toe, just where your toe ends and your foot begins. The impact will roll the ball along the inside of your foot. Your foot meets the ball in the bottom corner. Always use bottom left or right depending on which foot you use.
3. The Follow Through:
Your standing leg should not move and should still be pointing away from your target. Swing your kicking leg towards the goal, without bending it. When done properly the swing of your leg will twist your body towards your target.
4. The Flight of the Ball:
As you hit the bottom of the ball, there will be sufficient lift to take the ball up and over the wall. As your foot swings across, you create ball spin which makes the ball bend and dip. You can get extra lift if you lean your shoulders back.
5. Practice.
Practice, practice, practice!
