How to perform a chip pass

A chip pass is an effective weapon when you want to pass the ball over opponent’s defense line with precision and accuracy. My experience is that a chip pass is the best option in tight situations with many defenders around you. It’s also a great weapon when you are alone with goalkeeper and have opportunity to chip the ball over him/her.

Chipping vs. Lifting
Chipping and lifting are close to each other, but the main difference lies in how the ball is kicked. When chipping a ball you will use your kicking foot as a wedge to kick the ball low with your toe, which will increase the arc and backspin of the ball.

When lifting a ball you simply place your toes of the kicking foot as close as possible to the bottom of the ball. Then you perform a sliding under the ball with your kicking foot and lift the ball up and out with the instep of your foot.

A properly performed chip

1. Start by approaching the ball at a slight angle

2. Next, place your support foot about 5 inches to the side of the ball

3. Then, perform a back swing with the kicking leg (Tip: a short back swing should allow you more control of the ball)

4. You should angle your toe down (This step can be performed easier if you imagine that your foot is a wedge like, as you make the contact just below the center of the ball)

5. Try to lean your over body back when kicking the ball. (The more you lean back the higher arc of the ball).

A properly performed chip need to have backspin. This will slow down the speed of the ball and also make it easier for your teammates to get control over the ball. You could also use a chip when performing a shoot especially if the goalkeeper has come out to long. Tip: pretend that you are going to kick the ball hard but use a chip instead. The goalkeeper will just stand and watch the ball flying over him/her.

Try also to practice on chipping when the ball is moving but also when it is standing still. A chip pass is very powerful in tight situations with many opponents around you. However you should try not to use it often because opponents may study you movements and learn how to stop you fast and easy.