The curled shot is one of the most elegant and effective techniques in football. Known for its beautiful arc and precision, this type of shot allows players to bend the ball around defenders or into corners that are difficult for goalkeepers to reach.
Whether you’re watching XoilacTV Live Soccer Matches or analyzing Upcoming Football Fixtures, you’ll often see top players use curled shots to gain an edge. Mastering the curled shot can elevate a player’s offensive skillset, turning simple chances into spectacular goals.
What is a curled shot?
A curled shot—also known as a bending shot—involves applying sidespin to the ball during a strike, causing it to curve while in flight. Most curled shots are taken with the inside of the foot, allowing players to bend the ball inwards or outwards depending on their dominant foot and shooting angle.
Key characteristics
- Arc-shaped trajectory
- Sidespin application
- High accuracy and placement focus
- Often used to bend around a defender or goalkeeper
- Popular in long-range efforts and free kicks
Why the curled shot matters
The curled shot is a crucial technique in modern football for several reasons:
- Beats Goalkeepers: By curving away or into the post, it becomes difficult for keepers to predict and intercept.
- Creates Angles: Allows players to score even from tight or off-center positions.
- Useful in Set Pieces: Essential for free kicks and corner strategies.
- Minimizes Power Need: Relies more on technique than brute force, making it accessible to many players.
When executed correctly, a curled shot is a perfect blend of finesse and strategy.
Mechanics of a curled shot
Understanding the mechanics behind the curled shot is essential for consistent performance.
Foot placement
- Plant your non-kicking foot slightly to the side of the ball.
- Maintain a balanced, grounded posture.
Contact point
- Strike the ball using the inside of your foot.
- Aim to hit just off-center to generate sidespin.
Follow through
- Your foot should sweep across the ball in a curved motion.
- Your body naturally rotates with the motion, finishing facing the target.
Ball position
- The ball should be still or rolling slightly for best control.
- If the ball is moving fast, timing becomes crucial.
Body angle
- Lean slightly forward to keep the shot low and controlled.
- Adjust posture depending on whether you want a rising or dipping curl.
Training drills to improve your curled shot
Consistent practice is key to mastering the curled shot. Here are some useful drills:
Target practice drill
- Set up cones or small nets in the far corners of the goal.
- Practice bending the ball into each target using both feet.
Wall curl drill
- Use a dummy wall or real players as obstacles.
- Try curling the ball over the wall and into the goal from different angles.
Moving ball drill
- Practice curling the ball after dribbling or receiving a pass.
- This simulates real match conditions where timing and balance matter.
Repetition & review
- Film your shots and analyze the spin and trajectory.
- Note improvements in placement, speed, and curve.
Common mistakes to avoid
Many players struggle with curled shots due to minor technical flaws. Avoid these pitfalls:
- Hitting the center of the ball – results in straight shots with no spin.
- Poor follow-through – limits the curve and accuracy.
- Too much power – sacrifices control and makes the ball harder to bend.
- Leaning too far back – sends the ball over the goal.
Improving technique comes down to repetition, video feedback, and coaching guidance.
Famous players known for curled shots
Several legendary footballers are renowned for their curved finishing and free-kick prowess:
- Lionel Messi – Curling left-footed shots into the top corner with unmatched precision.
- Cristiano Ronaldo – Known for both power and controlled curling strikes.
- Thierry Henry – Famous for side-foot curls into the far post.
- David Beckham – A master of the curling free kick with his iconic right foot.
- Paulo Dybala – Uses curl to place shots past crowded defenses.
Studying these players can offer valuable insight into body mechanics, timing, and ball control.
Tactical use of the curled shot
The curled shot isn’t just for show—it’s a powerful tactical tool:
Cut Inside and curl
Wingers (e.g., left-footers on the right side) often cut inside to open up space and curl the ball into the far post.
Free kicks
Curled shots allow players to bend the ball around defensive walls, making it hard for keepers to read the trajectory.
Outside-the-box finishing
In situations where a straight shot would hit defenders, a curl helps bypass blocks and place the ball precisely.
Low curl to the far post
Curved shots at ground level are very effective against a goalkeeper covering the near post.
Using the curled shot in a match
Here are a few practical tips for using curled shots during gameplay:
- Create space before shooting: A quick dribble or body feint can give you the angle.
- Scan the goal: Identify if the keeper is off-center or a defender is blocking the path.
- Commit to the technique: Half-hearted attempts lack the spin and placement needed.
- Know your strong foot: Practice curling from both flanks to become unpredictable.
Conclusion
The curled shot is one of the most visually stunning and tactically effective techniques in football. Mastering it requires practice, proper mechanics, and game intelligence. Whether you’re trying to bend it like Beckham or place it with Messi-like precision, the curled shot will make you a more dangerous player in the final third.
Start small, stay consistent, and enjoy watching your shots curl past defenders into the back of the net.
