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Topic: Lofted kick
What is a lofted pass?
A lofted pass in soccer is a long, powerful kick that sends the football high up in the air, far above the heads of defensive players, to a fellow player. It is one of the most useful skills a footballer can own, because it lets you switch the ball from one side of the pitch to the other, clear danger from your own half, or drop a pass into space behind a defence that has pushed too high.
General coaching note: the lofted pass is closely related to the lofted shot and the long goal-kick. Once you can strike a ball cleanly into the air on purpose, the same technique carries over to crossing, long switches of play, and shooting from distance. That is why we spend time on it early.
How to practice
First question: which part of the foot should be used for loft?
Answer: It is from the toe to the ball of the foot — the laces area at the front of the boot, not the flat inside of the foot you would use for a short pass along the ground.
How to place your foot?
Foot Placement: Place your non-kicking foot beside the ball, pointing in the direction you want the ball to go. Body Position: Lean slightly forward for low shots and slightly backward for lofted kicks. Your shoulders should align with your target. Contact Point: Hit the ball with the appropriate part of your foot — strike underneath the middle of the ball so it climbs into the air rather than skidding along the floor.
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A simple step-by-step drill (general coaching guidance)
The following practice routine is added general coaching advice to help you rehearse the technique safely:
1. Start with the ball still. A stationary ball is easier to strike cleanly than a moving one, so begin here until the contact feels natural.
2. Take a short angled run-up of two or three steps rather than a straight charge at the ball. The slight angle helps you get your foot underneath it.
3. Plant the non-kicking foot beside — not behind — the ball, toes pointed at your target.
4. Lean back, keep your head steady and your eyes on the ball, and swing through with your laces, following the ball toward the target rather than stabbing at it.
5. Aim first for a partner or a cone about fifteen to twenty metres away. Height and distance come with clean contact, not with kicking harder.
Common mistakes to avoid
Most young players lean over the ball and drive it low — leaning back a little fixes this. Others hit the very bottom of the ball and scoop it straight up with no distance; aim just below the middle instead. And do not tense up: a relaxed, full swing of the leg gives more height and power than a short, forced jab.
Practice makes it easy
Repeat the movement in sets — ten strikes, a short rest, then ten more. Once the ball is leaving your foot cleanly and landing near your target, add a moving ball and then a partner returning the pass. With steady repetition the lofted kick becomes something you can play with ease.
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