First Touch Drills for Football

A good first touch buys you time and space; a poor one invites pressure. These first touch drills will help players receive cleanly and set up their next move.

Why first touch is everything

Every pass, dribble and shot starts with controlling the ball. Improve a player's first touch and every other part of their game improves with it. The key is a touch that's cushioned and directional — into space, ready for the next action.

Drill 1: Wall control

A player passes against a wall, controls the rebound with one touch and passes again. Simple, high-volume, and brilliant for grooving a clean touch. Vary the surface — inside, outside, both feet.

• Cushion the ball on contact to keep it close.
• Touch into space, not just to your feet.
• Use both feet — don't neglect the weaker one.

Drill 2: Receive and turn

A server feeds the ball to a player who takes an open first touch across the body and turns to face forward. Coach checking the shoulder before the ball arrives.

Drill 3: First touch under pressure

Add a defender who applies light then full pressure. The player must protect the ball with their first touch and take it away from danger. This is where a good touch really shows.

• Scan before you receive — know where the space is.
• First touch away from the defender.
• Stay composed — a calm touch beats a rushed one.

Coaching points

Groove the technique with no pressure first, then progress. Thousands of quality touches, both feet, is how a great first touch becomes automatic.

See also our guide to improving ball control.