1v1 (Defender In Front)

Cruyff

The Cruyff is a physical 1v1 skill that can really sell the fake when you’re tight on space and want to explode with the ball. Executing the move involves swinging your arm in the windup, turning your body as if you’re about to strike, and suddenly changing direction—all while focusing on your “fake” target. It’s key to protect the ball by keeping your body between the ball and the defender. When you need to get a shot off at the top of the 18, the Cruyff gives you a powerful technique to use.

Scissor

The scissor is a useful 1v1 dribbling skill you can use to fake out the defender when you need time to pass, shoot or explode. It works by taking an exaggerated step over the ball with your left foot and leaning your body in that direction, then quickly cutting the ball with the outside of your right foot so you can surge forward in the opposite direction. It’s great for fooling the defender so you can break away and create space. Players often break out the scissor when they already have a plan in place to execute their next move.

Stanley Matthews

The Stanley Matthews is a great 1v1 skill for faking out the defender when you have lots of space and time in the open field. It’s a two-touch move that involves dribbling at the defender with the inside of your foot, then switching to the outside and making as fast getaway that leaves them off-guard and flat-footed. The key is to sell the fake with your eyes and shoulders so that you can really explode with the ball. All great players use this move more than almost any other.

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