HomeFutsal DrillsBall ControlThe L-Drag
🏟 Futsal · Ball Control

The L-Drag

The L-drag (drag the ball back with the sole, then push it square with the inside of the same foot, tracing an L) is a signature futsal move to escape pressure from behind and open a new passing lane.

Total14 min AgeU11–adult Players8 Setup2 min Run12 min Level
PThe L-Drag — futsal court view
🎯
The one cue that matters
Smooth sole-then-inside combination

Why this drill works

The L-drag (drag the ball back with the sole, then push it square with the inside of the same foot, tracing an L) is a signature futsal move to escape pressure from behind and open a new passing lane. It teaches the sole-and-inside combination that defines close futsal control.

The drill in three phases

1Setup
P
Starting positions on the court.
2Action
P
The movement and combination develop.
3Finish
P
The end action the drill builds toward.
Ball carrierAttackersDefendersPassShot

How to run it

  1. Each player with a ball. Drag the ball back with the sole, then push it square with the inside of the same foot — tracing an L shape.
  2. Practise slowly, then build speed and rhythm.
  3. Add a cone behind as the 'presser' to drag away from.
  4. Both feet — the L-drag must work on each side.
  5. Finish with a passive defender: L-drag to escape and open a passing lane.

Equipment checklist

  • Futsal Balls1 per player
  • Cones6

Coaching points

Praise when you see

  • Smooth sole-then-inside combination
  • Sharp escape opening a new angle

Correct when you see

  • Two separate touches instead of one flowing move
  • Ball running away on the square push — keep it tight

Kit for this drill — top picks compared

PickProductBest for
Top pickFutsal Ball (low-bounce)Official low-bounce ball for true futsal control.Check price →
ValueDisc Cones (50-pack)Mark tight grids and gates.Check price →
UpgradeIndoor Court ShoesGrip for hard-court futsal.Check price →

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?Frequently asked questions

When would a player use the L-drag in a game?
When pressed from behind with no forward option — the drag escapes the pressure and the square push opens a passing lane to the side, all in one quick movement in tight space.