Chip

What is a Chip Shot in Soccer?

A chip shot is a technique used to delicately lift the ball over the opposing goalkeeper or a defender’s head. Unlike a regular shot, where a player kicks the ball with maximum power, a chip shot requires accuracy and finesse to deceive the goalkeeper or defender.

When is a chip shot used in soccer?

A chip shot can be used in different situations, including:

  • Scoring a goal: A chip shot can be used to score a goal when the goalkeeper is out of position or is rushing towards the striker. Instead of shooting the ball directly towards the goal, the striker can chip the ball over the goalkeeper and into the net.
  • Passing to a teammate: A chip shot can be used to pass the ball to a teammate when there is an opposing player in front of them. By looping the ball over the opponent, the receiving teammate can control the ball with ease.
  • Free kicks and penalties: A chip shot can also be used during free kicks and penalties. For instance, a player can use a chip shot during a penalty kick to deceive the goalkeeper who might be expecting a regular shot. This type of penalty kick is known as a ‘panenka.’

How does a soccer player execute a chip shot?

For a player to execute a chip shot, they need to follow these steps:

  • Approach the ball: The player should approach the ball at a slight angle and lean back slightly to create an angle that allows a backspin to be put on the ball.
  • Position the non-kicking foot: The non-kicking foot should be placed slightly behind the ball to the side and planted on the floor.
  • Angle the kicking foot: The kicking foot should be angled downwards, and the player should scoop under the ball, launching it into the air using the laces of their boots to lift it over the opposition player.
  • Use backspin: To get the best possible chip, a player should put backspin on the ball. This will help the ball to stay in the air longer, giving it a better chance of reaching its intended target.

Is a chip shot the same as a lob?

A chip shot and a lob are two different techniques. A chip shot requires the player to put backspin on the ball to lift it over the goalkeeper or defender’s head delicately. On the other hand, a lob is a shot where the player kicks the ball high into the air, without putting any backspin on it. A lob is used to bypass a defender or a goalkeeper who is off their line.

Some of the best chipshot takers

  • Lionel Messi – The Argentine superstar is a master of chipping the ball over goalkeepers. He has scored numerous goals using this technique, including a memorable one against Real Madrid in the 2011 Champions League semi-final.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo – Ronaldo is another player who is skilled at executing chip shots. He has scored several goals using this technique, including a spectacular one against Juventus in the 2018 Champions League quarter-final.
  • Ronaldinho – The Brazilian legend was famous for his creativity on the pitch, and his ability to execute chip shots was one of his trademarks. He scored many goals using this technique, including a stunning one against Chelsea in the 2005 Champions League.
  • Zlatan Ibrahimović – The Swedish striker is known for his acrobatic goals, but he is also adept at using chip shots to score. He has scored several goals using this technique throughout his career, including a memorable one against England in 2012.
  • Roberto Baggio – Baggio was one of the best players of his generation, and he was particularly skilled at executing chip shots. He scored many goals using this technique, including a memorable one against Czechoslovakia in the 1990 World Cup.

Conclusion

A chip shot is an essential technique in soccer that requires accuracy, finesse, and backspin to deceive the goalkeeper or defender. This technique can be used in different situations, including scoring goals, passing the ball to a teammate, and during free kicks and penalties. By following the steps mentioned in this article, a player can execute an effective chip shot and become a more versatile and dynamic player on the field.