Soccer Smarts

Soccer is played on a big field. For midfielders, this means lots of running all over the pitch. A professional midfielder runs many miles over the course of a game, playing on offense and defense. This book takes readers onto the pitch, patrolling the midfield with the game's best as they learn how to play one of the soccer's most challenging positions. From battling for free balls in the air to settling passes and looking for open teammates, this book dribbles through defenders and scores with readers looking to learn new skills to help them dominate "The Beautiful Game" with their friends.

In soccer, the striker is always the star. These superstar forwards are responsible for the amazing goals and spectacular passes that make championship soccer squads. This book gives readers a look at what makes these footballing phenom's so special, discussing their skills and tactics in a fun and informational way. From nutmegging the defender to perfect curling shots into the top corner, this book wows readers ready to lace up the cleats and become soccer superstars themselves. It also teaches young strikers how to work with others to pass around and beat defenders and goalkeepers while having fun as a team.

Keepers can't keep the ball out of that large soccer net on their own. They need a strong group of defenders to play well and win as a team. This book takes readers through the formations successful soccer teams play and how defenders use their "footy" skills to stop the opponent's strikers and midfielders from hitting the twine. Readers learn how teams work together to play strong defense, how to mark players in the box, and what things they should learn if they want to shine on the pitch just like the pros.

Defending a big net with just a pair of thick gloves is a hard task, but many keepers are able to go an entire game without giving up a goal. This book puts readers into the penalty area as keepers try to keep a clean sheet for their team. Just like the players on the pitch, readers will get examples of hands-on experience as keepers bat away curling volleys and pick the right side of the net to dive toward on penalty kicks. With expert analysis and insight, readers learn how keepers defend corner kicks and help the defense in front of them work together to fend off attacks.