Johan Cruyff (Cruijff) was a master of the beautiful game as a player and a coach. He was also a major proponent and believer of the Total Football system. As a player, he won Ballon d’Or 3 times. In the 1974 World Cup finals, he performed a trick turn that was later named The Cruyff and is still used in soccer today.
The trick turn is so widely used because it is an easy trick to master, but is still very effective against even the best defenders. It can be used to gain space to dribble to pass or even to score goals. Follow the steps below to learn how to do it yourself.
The Cruyff Turn – The Trick Turn
Step 1
When the ball is played to you and you are covered by a defender. Position your body at an angle to the defender.
Step 2
Then turn your body and fake a shot or pass. The defender will then shift their weight in the direction you turn and try to block the ball.
Step 3
When the defender reaches for the ball, tap it to the opposite side.
Step 4
Now the defender is out of your way and you are free to either dribble the ball past him, pass or shoot.
The Trick Turn For A Shot
Step 1
When the ball is played to you and a defender is on your back. Position your body at an angle to the goal.
Step 2
As you receive the ball turn away from the goal. The defender will then mark on the side that you turn. Then as you control the ball, tap it to the opposite side and in view of the goal.
Step 3
Once the ball has a line to the goal (Just out of the defender’s reach), shoot the ball by striking it in the middle with the side of the foot or the instep. Aiming for the corner of the net.
Step 4
Celebrate your goal!
