How did players such as Luis Figo, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Robinho and Roberto Carlos develop skills that set them apart from other players?
What did they do as youngsters that provided them with the basis to becoming some of the world’s best players?
If you are interested in the answer then you need to learn more about a game called Futsal.
WHAT IS FUTSAL?
Futsal is an exciting, fast-paced small sided football game that is widely played across the world and is officially recognised by both UEFA and FIFA.
The nature of the game places a large emphasis on technical skill and ability in situations of high pressure, and is subsequently an excellent breeding ground for football competencies that can be translated into the 11-a-side format of the game.
THE LEGENDS
Many of the top world class footballers played Futsal in their youth and credit it with supporting their development; players of the calibre of South American legends like Pele, Zico, Ronaldinho, Kaka, and Lionel Messi all played and enjoyed Futsal. But Futsal has not just helped produce South American football stars. European stars Cristiano Ronaldo, Deco, Xavi, Fabregas and many others have played Futsal to develop their skills.
“Futsal was important in helping to develop my ball control, quick thinking, passing….also for dribbling, balance, concentration…. Futsal was very, very important, no doubt.” – Pele, World Cup Winner: 1958, 1962 & 1970
THE RULES
Futsal is a five-a-side game, normally played on a flat indoor pitch with hockey sized goals and a size 4 ball with a reduced bounce. It is played to touchlines and all players are free to enter the penalty area and play the ball over head-height. Games are 20 minutes per half, played to a stopping clock (similar to basketball) with time-outs permitted.