BREAKING PRESSURE in futsal - how to start attacks

Breaking pressure in futsal - how to start attacks

One of the most frequent mistakes, which lead to conceded goals are made near own goals - on own half of the futsal pitch. Most of the time it happens, when teams are being under pressure of an opponent and do not know, how to handle this pressure.

In this article we are going to take a look at how to start attacks in futsal and how to break opponent's pressure. You can break pressure with the help of different formations. Formations 3-1 and 4-0 are the ones, which are used more often on a professional level. Another formation, which is not as popular, but at the same time - still very effective is formation 2-2.

Breaking pressure in formation 4-0

In this particular case we are going to concentrate on the formation, which is called 4-0 formation. In order to break pressure in the formation 4-0, it's necessary to:

• rotate positions a lot
• know the basic rotations and moves
• work as a team
• support a player with the ball

Pressure, which your opponent is applying on you is not always a bad thing. You can use it to your favour. When opponent is pressuring your, that means, that your opponent is taking risks too - some zones on a futsal pitch in this case would be open. Therefore these zones can be used for your attacking runs and passes.

Here are some zones, which you may use to your favour.

Zone in the middle of a futsal pitch:

Zone on opponent's half of the pitch:

Breaking pressure in system 4-0: video

Now let us take a look at one of futsal attacking combinations in formation 4-0, which is meant exactly to catch opponent off guard and counter-attack. Spanish futsal national team in this video is breaking pressure of Portugal futsal team.

With the perfect plan and execusion and a lot of training this combination in formation 4-0 helped to break pressure and score a very beautiful team goal. Watch full video of a combination along with Artyom Samoylov's tactical analysis and explanation of it:

Short version of the breaking presure tactic in futsal formation 4-0:

AMAZING FUTSAL KICK-IN COMBINATION: Explanation + Video Example

AMAZING FUTSAL KICK-IN COMBINATION

Every futsal coach wants to:

• get results;
• get points regularly and therefore play consistently well;
• have a chance to compete against really tough and experienced opponents;

Futsal TeamPlay is not just the result of some misterious aspects. It's loads of minutes on a futsal training ground. Futsal teamplay goals are not that easy to score, because in order to score such goal, it's necessary to combine together and get some luck too. On passes, runs and rotations have to be perfectly timed and executed.

There is always an opponent, who is doing his best to stop you from scoring. Tehrefore it's necesary to be prepared well for a futsla match: both phisycally and mentally.

Futsal teamplay examples are comming from: 

1. positional attack
2. counter-attacks (breaks)
3. futsal setplays

Each futsal player must be individually very well equiped, has to be tactically strong and also be prepared to work for a team. Each teamplay goal is result of a teamwork provided by each player on a futsla pitch.

Video of a kick-in combination

Let's take a look at a video example of a futsal kick-in combination, which ended with a goal:

Here is a short version of Futsal TeamPlay goal:

• If you need a short version of this video, just watch it on my Instagram account - click HERE
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BREAKING PRESSURE IN FUTSAL - How to start attacks in 4-0 formation

Breaking pressure in futsal - how to start attacks

One of the most frequent mistakes, which lead to conceded goals are made near own goals - on own half of the futsal pitch. Most of the time it happens, when teams are being under pressure of an opponent and do not know, how to handle this pressure.

In this article we are going to take a look at how to start attacks in futsal and how to break opponent's pressure. You can break pressure with the help of different formations. Formations 3-1 and 4-0 are the ones, which are used more often on a professional level. Another formation, which is not as popular, but at the same time - still very effective is formation 2-2.

Breaking pressure in formation 4-0

In this particular case we are going to concentrate on the formation, which is called 4-0 formation. In order to break pressure in the formation 4-0, it's necessary to:

• rotate positions a lot
• know the basic rotations and moves
• work as a team
• support a player with the ball

Pressure, which your opponent is applying on you is not always a bad thing. You can use it to your favour. When opponent is pressuring your, that means, that your opponent is taking risks too - some zones on a futsal pitch in this case would be open. Therefore these zones can be used for your attacking runs and passes.

Here are some zones, which you may use to your favour.

Zone in the middle of a futsal pitch:

Zone on opponent's half of the pitch:

Breaking pressure in system 4-0: video 

Now let us take a look at one of futsal attacking combinations in formation 4-0, which is meant exactly to catch opponent off guard and counter-attack. Spanish futsal national team in this video is breaking pressure of Portugal futsal team.

With the perfect plan and execusion and a lot of training this combination in formation 4-0 helped to break pressure and score a very beautiful team goal. Watch full video of a combination along with Artyom Samoylov's tactical analysis and explanation of it:

• If you need a short version of this video, just watch it on my Instagram account - click HERE
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel - click HERE
• Subscribe to my Instagram account - click HERE

How to improve futsal ball control? Drill + Video

How to improve ball control in futsal?

Ball control is one of the most important futsal skills, whcih every futsal player must be learning and perfecting throughout whole his career. In fact, when it comes futsal training for kids, ball control is the first thing they start to train.

Ball control doesn't necessarily mean dribbling the ball. If fact in most case dribbling is much less useful for you they just being able to keep the ball close to you. Instead of going against your opponents one on one and trying to beat them, it's more smart to keep the ball and while doing that - look for you partner. For an opportunity to make a pass.

Some skills, thet every futsal player must develop to be able to keep the ball successfully:

• Keeping the ball close to you
• Keeping your eyes up (not on the ball)
• Being aware of who is around you (both opponents and partners)
• Ability to use both feet
• Ability to use different types of dribbling (controling) the ball - side, inside and sole of the foot

I have prepared a video with the full explanation of the drill, which will help you to improve your futsal ball control. In the videl you will see both the explanation of the drill and also an example of it (from real training session).

This drill can be used for:

1. individual training
2. small group training
3. big group training

Now take a look at the video, which I prepared for you:

• If you need a short version of this video, just watch it on my Instagram account - click HERE
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel - click HERE
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How to run faster? How can you increase your running speed?

What training can improve speed?

When it comes to speed training, most trainers rely solely on gym facilities. That makes sense to some extent since one of the goals of such training is to build leg strength, meaning that gym equipment is supposed to meet the goals set (e.g., some speed and endurance training exercises can be performed on a treadmill or stationary bicycle).

However, speed and coordination are not only about the legs but also about improving reaction time, being able to perform exercises at top speed, changing direction, building endurance, and making quick decisions.

Although athletic training is different for each sport, most speed training exercises are versatile and applicable for athletes of different sports. It is a big advantage considering that in a professional sport, speed training exercises are performed on a daily basis regardless of the training plan for a particular day.

What is a technique to run faster?

It is important to understand the impact of each exercise on your body. Once the functionality of the exercises is clear, you will be able to design a speed training workout based on your sport. Some speed and endurance exercises performed in the wrong way might be ineffective or even dangerous. Always pay attention to technique - that is what distinguishes an average athlete from an outstanding one.

During the first sets, when you are just learning the technique, the execution speed of the exercise is not important. When performing a speed training set, posture and body position are vital, since only a proper technique can improve your athletic performance. For example, to achieve the highest acceleration, the athlete should not keep his back too straight, otherwise, the shin will stay in a vertical position.

Such starting position prevents the athlete from developing maximal speed due to vertical "recoil", while the acceleration is achieved by the forward lean. Another way to improve speed, agility and coordination is to develop repeated sprint ability.

This is an ability of an athlete to recover and maintain maximal effort during sprints of different difficulty levels and durations. In professional sports clubs, this ability is tested regularly and is an important factor in tracking an athlete's fitness and progress. Unless you are working out with a personal trainer or a partner, you will have to do it by yourself.

Keep it simple to start with, gradually moving on to more challenging exercises involving more changes of direction, different forms of weight training, and frequent sets with acceleration and deceleration.

What is reactive speed training?

Speed training exercises can be divided into two categories: ‘fixed’ (you know in advance how to perform the exercise) and ‘reactive’ (the performance of the exercise may change as it progresses, meaning that the athlete has to respond to external factors).

Reactive exercises are in a way similar to coordination training. A workout should include both types of exercises; however, reactive exercises are becoming increasingly popular with fitness instructors at major sports clubs.

What are the types of speed training

‘Fixed’ exercises are aimed at mastering the core technique. An athlete is aware beforehand of what he/she is expected to do. In simple terms, it is a reaction to a ball being thrown or the trainer or training partner's call and so on.

Can I exercise barefoot?

If you train barefoot, there is a risk of injury. However, there are exercises which can be performed barefoot. For example, during a warm-up or as an extra workout. To improve your sense of balance, strengthen ankle muscles and reduce foot-to-ground contact, do jumping exercises. Use slant board to stretch the feet (achilles, calf)

Reaction time exercises

Reaction time exercises contain the element of ambiguity that lack in "fixed" exercises. In any sport, it is the athlete's responsibility to react as quickly as possible to changes in external and unforeseen factors. It is noteworthy that reaction time exercises also develop cognitive functions.

What is the difference between speed, coordination, and reaction time training?

While many people think that speed and agility are the same thing, in fact, it is two different concepts. Speed is the ability to move in one direction (usually running speed exercises), while agility is the ability to react and adapt in a dynamic way.

How can I improve my speed and coordination?

If you are an athlete with no ambitions to become a pro, some basic speed and coordination exercises will work for you. There is no need to go to the gym or buy any special equipment for performing these exercises. If you want to stay in shape, try them out two or three times a week.

Remember to vary different sets of these exercises as they are complementary. Speed exercises will benefit coordination and coordination exercises will benefit your speed.

What exercises improve speed?

Speed exercises are divided into: change of direction exercises, acceleration exercises and highest speed exercises. These three types of exercises should be repeated monthly during the workout.

One type of exercise does not preclude the other two. In order to achieve the best results, all three sets of exercises should be employed since their aim is to meet different sports objectives.

Athletes start with a change of direction program, followed by acceleration and then maximum speed training. Change of direction exercises include lateral movements, quick changes of direction, braking, etc. Acceleration exercises include sprints, jogging- sprint, walking-sprint, etc.

How to do sprints?

To improve your top speed skill, use sprints:

• Try running 20-30 metres at your fastest speed

• Make sure your arms move freely and smoothly during the exercise. Try to keep your arms closer to your body; make sure your steps are short and smooth, and that your knees are lifted to shoulder level

• Keep your head relaxed and in a comfortable position

• At the end of the sprint, return slowly to the starting line

• 2-4 times

What is cross country running?

Speed cross-country. In football, the ability to accelerate to full speed is crucial. In fact, this ability is often much more valuable than increasing maximal speed. In order to acquire this skill, one should practice speeding up and slowing down.

Try the following exercise:

1. Do an easy 10-metre run
2. Run the same distance at high speed
3. Same distance - easy run
4. Same distance - highest speed
5. Slow down and run 5 metres
6. When switched to walking, return to the starting point

How do ladder workouts improve one's agility and speed?

Ladder training will improve your running speed, leg agility, enhance balance and coordination:

• This horizontal equipment implies stomping your legs while running.
• To improve your running speed, it is better to use a stopwatch, each time trying to set a personal record.
• This device is available in many sports accessory shops.

What is interval training method?

To improve your performance in football, develop an explosive run habit together with other movements.

• Do the 30-minute interval workout.
• Alternate jogging for 5-10 minutes with more intensive training in a shorter time (sprints, uphill run, speed ladder, etc.).

The three phases of speed

If you want to take speed training seriously, it is important to divide it into three phases:

1. acceleration training
2. speed training
3. maximum velocity training

In other words, a 60-meter run at top speed is only a small part of what you have to do in speed training.

The 5-to-1 approach

In order to achieve the result, speed training must be performed in the right way:

• Record the time you run the distance (e.g. 60 or 100 metres);
• Multiply the result by 5 and you will get the minimum rest time between the runs.

Speed training example:

An example of speed training:

• You did a 100-metre run (sprint) in 12 seconds.
• Multiply 12 seconds by 5 and you will have 60 seconds (a minute). It takes at least one minute before you can start your next run.

What if the intervals between runs are too short?

In this case, speed training will no longer be effective as you are no longer training speed, but rather speed endurance.

Speed training using a ball

Speed training without a ball is essential. However, if you are a futsal or football player, it is not enough. You should be able to move fast with and without the ball.

Speed training for the futsal player (with the ball)

High efficiency of ball training is achieved not only by doping the ball in exercises but by learning how to move fast with the ball in general, at least slowly. For this reason, it is important that the futsal player is constantly improving the skill of dribbling the ball.

Every player must take a complex approach to speed training. It's not enough just to run fast!

For more details on speed training follow the link – https://youtu.be/Y7hxIHBvtXY

For speed training set (for futsal players) click here – https://www.futsalicodvd.com/futsal-tactics-and-coaching/item/futsal-tranining-sessions/speed-without-a-ball---printready-session-04/

Click here for speed training sessions for the futsal player - https://www.futsalicodvd.com/futsal-tactics-and-coaching/category/futsal-tranining-sessions/

Watch the video about speed training:

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How to defend in futsal? Lines of defense - Artyom Samoylov

How to defend in futsal? What to start with?

When it comes to futsal defending, there is always a question, what to start with if you want to become a good futsal defender or if as a coach - you want to improve the defense of your team.

The answer is this: you need to understand the basic defensive concepts. I call it futsal geometry. Each futsal player or a coach should understand how futsal universe operates, what are basic defensive rules, that apply.

Futsal pitch is 20 x 40 m long (at least a standard one) and in order to get the ball from one goal to another, futsal team has to overcome the resistance of opponent’s defense. The better is this resistance, the harder for an offensive team to get through.

So job number one for any defender personally or for a defending futsal team in general is to understand, how and what should be done to make defensive system as solid as possible.

How to understand futsal defense tactics?

The best way to teach a futsal team to defend is to explain this:

1. defense should be compact
2. defending should be organized in three lines (at least)
3. there should not be free spaces in between these lines

How this can be achievable? If you need to explain these defensive concepts to futsal players, the best way is to use, what futsal pitch offers you anyway - the lines.

Each futsal pitch is divided into different zones with the help of lines, which are painted on it. There is always the line, which divides the pitch into two halves. Very often there are also lines, which divide each half too.

Now, if the pitch, where you are playing, only has the middle line, it’s not a problem, because you can use a 10m mark as a reference point.

How futsal pitch can help to defend?

The main idea is to understand, that you can divide a futsal pitch into 4 areas:

• first quarter
• second quarter
• third quarter
• fourth quarter

Now, we have to explain our futsal players, how to position themselves in different situations and we can do it with the help of these four quarters. First of all each futsal player or our team has to know, that in order for a defense to stay compact, it’s necessary to have at least one player in each of three consecutive areas.

Let’s take a look at the example:

We can see, that green team (and the team is not only 4 field players, it’s 4 field players and a goal-keeper) is positioned in three consecutive zones. This is a correct positioning.

Picture above on the other hand shows us another situation. At this time the defending team is positioned in three zones, but these are not three consecutive zones. Meaning, that there is a free zone in between. This should not be happening. This positioning is incorrect.

Here is another example of bad positioning by the defending futsal team:

At this time players occupy four zones. This is also good practice.

Defending team has at least three lines of defense:

• Defensive Line nr.1 - green player nr.4
• Defensive Line nr.2 - green player nr.5
• Defensive Line nr.3 - green player nr.2
• Defensive Line nr.4 - green player nr.3
• Defensive Line nr.5 - green goal-keeper

So, if, for example, a defending futsal team is going to choose a defensive strategy of a high pressure, players should position themselves like this:

or like this:

I gave you an example with a very advanced red nr.2 for a purpose. To see, how you should be positioned when opponent is using a pivot and has a very big depth of attack.

Different example of futsal defense

Although it’s not often a case. Often you will see different situations (with opponent’s players playing without such a big depth of attack. Here are couple of another examples of such situations and here is also a correct positioning of a defending team:

On the scheme above you can see 5 lines of defense.

Depending on the location of opponent’s players and the type of strategy (individual marking, zonal defense, mixed defense), there will be different positioning of a defending team’s players. But in any case, there should be at least three lines of defense.

If we count from the ball side:

• Defensive Line nr.1 - green player nr.4
• Defensive Line nr.2 - green player nr.2
• Defensive Line nr.3 - green player nr.5
• Defensive Line nr.4 - green player nr.3
• Defensive Line nr.5 - green goal-keeper

If we count from the ball side:

• Defensive Line nr.1 - green player nr.2
• Defensive Line nr.2 - green player nr.4 and nr.5
• Defensive Line nr.3 - green player nr.3
• Defensive Line nr.4 - green goal-keeper

If we count from the ball side:

• Defensive Line nr.1 - green player nr.4
• Defensive Line nr.2 - green player nr.2
• Defensive Line nr.3 - green player nr.3
• Defensive Line nr.4 - green player nr.5 and a goal-keeper

Futsal defensive strategy instructions

When players are able to visualize the pitch not as a whole, but as a sum of 4 areas, it becomes easier for a coach not only to explain, how defense should be organized, but also - to instruct a futsal team during the match itself.

For example, coach can give an instruction to defend:

1. only from the middle of the pitch (defending on the 50% of the pitch)
2. or apply pressure on 75% (3/4) of the pitch etc.

And players could understand the coach easily and quickly, which may sometimes be very important, if you need to change the strategy of your team without waiting for a half-time break or a time-out.

Now take a look at the video, which I prepared for you. It’s gives you all you need to know about defensive lines in futsal in full detail:

If you need a short version of this video, just watch it on my Instagram account - click HERE

Subscribe to my YouTube channel - click HERE

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What is the best futsal passing drill for beginners?

What is the best futsal passing drill for beginners?

Futsal is a sport, where passing is one of the main skills. Passing skills are important, when it comes to futsal attack. Any futsal tactical attacking build-up (combination) is not possible without being able to pass the ball.

Many beginners in futsal are usually concentrating on the improvement of futsal dribbling. This is not smart. Although it’s understandable, because futsal is a type of sport, where a player gets to touch the ball very often and as a result - he is presented with a lot of opportunities to show his futsal skills.

On the other hand, when it comes to a get and to getting victory in a futsal match, for every player it’s important to think first about the team. The team always comes first, therefore instead of dribbling the ball, it’s almost always more effective to just pass it to a teammate.

One of the reasons, why many futsal beginners are good on a training session and are having loads of problems during the game, is that they are dribbling the ball more often, then they should. Ideally in a futsal match, you have to make 2-3 touches maximum on the ball. That means, that with the third touch of the ball, you already have to either shoot or pass the ball to your teammate.

There is a reason, why 99% of futsal attacking combinations are planned in a way, that players are actually passing the ball, not dribbling. It’s just more effective.

Beginners in futsal

When it comes to beginners in futsal, it’s important to understand, that:

• they usually lack good physical condition
• futsal skills are on a very low level
• not all futsal passing drills can be understood and performed well by them
• laterality will be very much the case with the beginner. Meaning - they most definitely will have one preferred foot and the other will be much weaker, therefore a beginner won’t be able to use weaker foot well.
• they will lack speed and coordination too.

Futsal passing

Also, when it comes to futsal passing, it’s important to know, that a pass should be:

1. strong
2. accurate
3. timed very well

Factors, which are mentioned above play the key role, when you have to develop futsal skills of a beginner. I will share a drill with you, which will help to get a beginner to a certain level of skill, which will allow him to make less mistakes during the game.

What is the best futsal passing drill for beginners then?

It should:

1. be performed statically at first
2. be played in pairs
3. be concentrated on a technique of a futsal pass
4. include using weaker foot of a futsal player too
5. include correct receiving of the ball (futsal first touch with the sole of the foot)
6. include looking at the target before passing the ball.

I am going to share a futsal drill with you, which will help you to get your futsal training going and improve your passing skills fast. There will also be tips of how you can make a drill more diverse, so you don’t get bored.

Futsal passing drill for beginners

Objective of the drill: Improving futsal passing

How to set-up the drill:

• At least one pair of players
• one ball for each pair of players

Passing drill sequence:

• In the picture you can see 5 phases of the drill.
• First phase: all pairs of players in pairs are positioned in front of each other with the distance of 3 meter between them (like green nr.2 and red nr.2). Players are passing the ball to each other and are using both of their feet. Each player has only 2 touches on the ball (one touch - to receive the ball, another touch - to pass it).
• Second phase: players make bigger distance (6-7) meters between themselves and are doing the same sequence as in the first phase: 2 touches on the ball - receive and pass. Example: position of green nr.3 and red nr.3.
• Third phase: Bigger distance now - players are positioned on the edges of the pitch (just by the side lines). Now players have to receive the ball with the first touch (ideally with the sole of the foot), role the ball a bit forward (ideally with the same first touch; but if it’s difficult, players are allowed extra touch for that) and finally make a pass. Example: green nr.4 and red nr.4.
• Phase four: Players are positioned within 3 meter distance from each other. Each player has only one touch on the ball. Players are just passing the ball to each other using just one touch. Example: green nr.5 and red nr.5.
• Phase five: Players are positioned within 3 meter distance from each other. Each player has only one touch on the ball. Players are passing the ball to each other while moving from one side line to another using just one touch. Example: green nr.5 and red nr.5.

Players should be concentrating on things such as:

1. passing accuracy
2. looking up just before the pass
3. pass the ball low
4. aim not just towards their teammate, but towards his best foot

Intensity of the drill: Average

Duration of the drill: 5 minutes for each phase (25 minutes in total)

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Check out this REELS or SHORTS or TIKTOK video about futsal passing training

Watch the video with the explanation of the best passing drills for futsal:

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How To Defend In Futsal by coach Artyom Samoylov

Watch the video - How to Defend in Futsal by coach Artyom Samoylov:

Defensive transition

Defending set-pieces

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Futsal Laws of the Game 2022/2023 [PDF]

Futsal-Laws-of-the-Game-2022-2023

Here you can download the latest version of Futsal Rules - FUTSAL_-_Laws_of_the_Game_2022-2023_EN.pdf

FUTSAL Laws of the Game 2022-23

Approved by the Bureau of the FIFA Council

This booklet may not be reproduced or translated in whole or in part in any manner without the permission of FIFA.

Effective from 12 August 2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NOTES ON THE FUTSAL LAWS OF THE GAME 8

LAW 1 – THE PITCH 12

• Pitch surface 13
• Pitch markings 14
• Pitch dimensions 15
• The penalty area 16
• The 10m mark 16
• The substitution zones 17
• The corner area 17
• The technical area 17
• The goals 18
• Goal movement 20
• Advertising on the pitch 22
• Advertising on the goal nets 22
• Advertising in the technical areas 22
• Advertising around the pitch 22

LAW 2 – THE BALL 23

• Qualities and measurements 24
• Advertising on the ball 24
• Replacement of a defective ball 24
• Additional balls 25
• Extra balls on the pitch 25
• Goal involving a defective ball 25

LAW 3 – THE PLAYERS 26

• Number of players 27
• Number of substitutions and substitutes 27
• Submission of list of players and substitutes 27
• Substitution procedure 28
• Warming up 28
• Changing the goalkeeper 29
• Offences and sanctions 29
• Players and substitutes sent off 30
• Extra persons on the pitch 30
• Goal scored with an extra person on the pitch 31
• Improper re–entry by player off the pitch 32
• Team captain 32

LAW 4 – THE PLAYERS’ EQUIPMENT 33

• Safety 34
• Compulsory equipment 34
• Colours 35
• Other equipment 35
• Slogans, statements, images and advertising 36
• Offences and sanctions 38
• Numbering of the players 38

LAW 5 – THE REFEREES 39

• The authority of the referees 40
• Decisions of the referees 40
• Powers and duties 40
• Liability of the match officials 43
• International matches 43
• Referees’ equipment 44
• Video support 45

LAW 6 – THE OTHER MATCH OFFICIALS 46

• The assistant referees 47
• Powers and duties 47
• International matches 50
• Reserve assistant referee (RAR) 50

LAW 7 – THE DURATION OF THE MATCH 51

• Periods of play 52
• Ending the periods of play 52
• Timeout 53
• Half–time interval 53
• Abandoned match 53

LAW 8 – THE START AND RESTART OF PLAY 54

• Kick–off 55
• Dropped ball 56

LAW 9 – THE BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY 57

• Ball out of play 58
• Ball in play 58
• Indoor pitch 58

LAW 10 – DETERMINING THE OUTCOME OF A MATCH 59

• Goal scored 60
• Winning team 60
• Kicks from the penalty mark 61
• Away goals 63

LAW 11 – OFFSIDE 64

2 Offences and sanctions 96

LAW 16 – THE GOAL CLEARANCE 97

Procedure 98

Offences and sanctions 98

LAW 17 – THE CORNER KICK 99

Procedure 100

Offences and sanctions 100

VIDEO SUPPORT PROTOCOL 101

1. Principles 102
2. Reviewable decisions/incidents 104
3. Practicalities 105
4. Procedures 106
5. PRACTICAL GUIDELINES FOR FUTSAL REFEREES AND OTHER MATCH OFFICIALS 109
6. SIGNALLING 111
7. POSITIONING 124
8. INTERPRETATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 145
9. FUTSAL TERMS 163
10. REFEREE TERMS 170

NOTES ON THE FUTSAL LAWS OF THE GAME

Official languages

FIFA publishes the Futsal Laws of the Game in English, Arabic, French, German and Spanish. If there is any divergence in the wording, the English text is authoritative.

Other languages

National football associations (FAs) which translate the Futsal Laws of the Game can obtain the layout template for the 2022-23 edition from FIFA by contacting [email protected]. National FAs which produce a translated version of the Futsal Laws of the Game using this format are invited to send a copy to FIFA (stating clearly on the front cover that it is that national FA’s official translation) so that it can be posted on FIFA.com for use by others.

Applying the Futsal Laws

• That the same Futsal Laws apply in every match in every confederation, country, town and village throughout the world is a considerable strength which must be preserved. This is also an opportunity which must be harnessed for the good of futsal everywhere.
• Those who educate match officials and other participants should emphasise that:
• referees should apply the Futsal Laws within the “spirit” of the game to help
• produce fair and safe matches;
• everyone must respect the match officials and their decisions, remembering and respecting the integrity of the Futsal Laws.
• Players have a major responsibility for the image of the game and the team captain should play an important role in helping to ensure that the Futsal Laws and referees’ decisions are respected and protected.

Modifications to the Futsal Laws

The universality of the Futsal Laws of the Game means that the game is essentially the same in every part of the world and at every level. As well as creating a “fair” and safe environment in which the game is played, the Futsal Laws should also promote participation and enjoyment.

Historically, FIFA allowed national FAs some flexibility to modify the “organisational” Futsal Laws for specific categories of futsal. However, FIFA strongly believes that national FAs should be able to modify some other aspects of the way futsal is organised if it will benefit futsal in their own country.

How the game is played and refereed should be the same on every futsal pitch in the world. However, a country’s domestic futsal needs should determine how long the game lasts, how many people can take part and how some unfair behaviour is punished.

Consequently, national FAs, confederations and FIFA have the option to modify all or some of the following organisational areas of the Futsal Laws of the Game for which they are responsible:

For youth, veterans’, disability and grassroots futsal:

• The size of the pitch
• The size, weight and material of the ball
• The width between the goalposts and the height of the crossbar from the ground
• The duration of the two (equal) periods of the game (and two equal periods of
• extra time)
• Limitations on the throwing of the ball by the goalkeeper

In addition, to allow national FAs further flexibility to benefit and develop futsal domestically, the following changes relating to “categories” of futsal are permitted:

National FAs, confederations and FIFA have the flexibility to decide the age restrictions for youth and veterans’ futsal.

Each national FA will determine which competitions at the lowest levels of futsal are designated as “grassroots” futsal.

National FAs have the option to approve some of these modifications for different competitions – there is no requirement to apply them universally or to apply them all. However, no other modifications are allowed without the permission of FIFA.

Limitations on the throwing of the ball by the goalkeeper

FIFA has approved certain limitations on the throwing of the ball by goalkeepers for youth, veterans’, disability and grassroots futsal, subject to the approval of the national FA or confederation organising the competition or of FIFA – whichever is appropriate.

References to the limitations are found in:

Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct

“An indirect free kick is also awarded if a goalkeeper commits any of the following offences: […]

where this is outlawed by domestic rules for youth, veterans’, disability and/or grassroots futsal, throws the ball directly over the halfway line (the free kick is to be taken from the place where the ball crossed the halfway line).”

Law 16 – The Goal Clearance

“Where this is outlawed by domestic rules for youth, veterans’, disability and/or grassroots futsal, if the goalkeeper throws the ball directly over the halfway line, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team, to be taken from the place where the ball crossed the halfway line.”

The philosophy behind this limitation is to promote creative futsal and encourage technical development.

National FAs are asked to inform FIFA of their use of all of the above-mentioned modifications, and at which levels, as this information, and especially the reason(s) why the modifications are being used, may identify development ideas or strategies that FIFA can share to assist the development of futsal by other national FAs.

FIFA would also be very interested to hear about other potential modifications to the Futsal Laws of the Game, which could increase participation, make futsal more attractive and promote its worldwide development.

Managing amendments to the Futsal Laws

For every proposed amendment, the focus must be on fairness, integrity, respect, safety, the enjoyment of the participants and how technology can benefit the game. The Futsal Laws must also encourage participation by everyone, regardless of background or ability.

Although accidents occur, the Futsal Laws should make the game as safe as possible. This requires players to show respect for their opponents, and referees should create a safe environment by dealing strongly with those whose play is too aggressive and dangerous. The Futsal Laws embody the unacceptability of unsafe play in their disciplinary phrases, e.g. “reckless challenge” (caution = yellow card/ YC) and “endangering the safety of an opponent” or “using excessive force” (sending-off = red card/RC).

Futsal must be attractive and enjoyable for players, match officials and coaches, as well as spectators, fans, administrators, etc. These amendments must help make the game attractive and enjoyable so that people, regardless of age, race, religion, culture, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or disability, etc. want to take part and enjoy their involvement in futsal.

These amendments seek to simplify the game and bring many aspects of the Futsal Laws into line with those of football but, as many situations are “subjective” and referees are human (and thus make mistakes), some decisions will inevitably cause debate and discussion.

The Futsal Laws cannot deal with every single situation, so where there is no direct provision herein, FIFA expects the referees to make a decision within the “spirit” of the game utilising “futsal understanding” – this often involves asking the question, ”what would be in futsal’s best interests?”

Futsal Decision-making Drill | Proper Futsal Warm-up

Objective: Decision-making, passing, 1-2 touch play

Set-up: 1/2 pitch, 4 cones (square 5-6m each side), at least one ball, 8 players

Drill:

• 6 green players with the objective to keep possession of the ball;
• Green players have only 2 touches on the ball;
• 2 red players with the objective to get a hold of the ball or intercept it;
• If the ball is intercepted, players switch roles (the one, who lost the ball becomes a defender and the one, who won the ball become an attacking player)

Intensity: High

Duration: 10-20 minutes

Download a FREE Print-Ready PDF with this drill - HERE

How to Improve Futsal Combinational Play and Precision

How to improve Futsal Combinational Play - by Artyom Samoylov:

Objective: Passing, Teamplay and Precision

Set-up: full pitch divided into 2 playing areas (two halves), 1 ball at least, 2 pairs of small goals, 8 players (4 players in each team)

Drill:

• Both teams can use each half of the pitch to score a goal.
• The main rules is that there can only be 2 defending players and 3 attacking players on the half, where the ball is.
• So it’s always 3 against 2.
• The goal can only be scored with the first touch shot.

Intensity: High

Duration: 2 games of 10 minutes each

DOWNLOAD ILUSTRATED PDF with the description of this drill - HERE

tags: hey guys my name is artyom samoylov and on this channel we discuss futsal in this video we're gonna take a look at the drill which is going to help our team to improve passing combinational play and precision so we're gonna take a look at the explanation of the drill here i will explain you how it works and then i'm gonna show you a video of a real training session where it's used and also you can go in the description of this video and download a free pdf with this drill in this pdf file you have full description of the drill how to set it up what are the most important things to focus on visualization and everything as always it's going to be a game related drill so even if you don't have a coach or a proper futsal training session you can just play a futsal game with these restrictions and you will still be learning so you play four against four players have to score in these small goals here and the restriction is that the team in possession of the ball can only be playing on one half of the chord and only team in possession of the ball can have a third player on this half of the chord so it's always gonna be three against two so if the ball switches for example to this side of the pitch and for example it goes to black team then two white players will be defending here and one of these black guys will be allowed to enter this half of the court and continue playing three against two attack and another restriction is that the goal is only allowed if it scored with the first tight shot

How To Improve Team Ball Control in Futsal?

Watch the video by Artyom Samoylov:

hey guys my name is coach artyom samoylov on this channel we discuss futsal tactics and futsal coaching in this video we are going to take a look at the drill which is going to help you to improve the collective position of the ball if you are struggling with making several consecutive passes together this drill is going to help you and then we are going to move and take a look at how it's played on a real training session and finally you can go in the description of this video and download the free pdf with this drill you can print it out and take it to your training session easily so the drill is designed in a way so it's very intense and very dynamic it simulates the game situation very much so your players are not only going to learn from it they're also going to love it so you are using the half of the chord you have three players of each team inside this half of the chord and also you have two neutral players in each team so you can see that white team has two players in here and the black team has two players in here use all the balls you have on the training session and if the ball goes out don't chase it just take the nearest ball and continue playing so the job of those players who are inside of this half of the court is going to be to make at least 15 consecutive passes together without losing a ball they can use their respective teammates outside of the court but if an actual player receives the ball he has to go into the court even if he makes a pass he has to engage and the player who made a pass to him has to go up so at any moment of time there has to be only three field players inside the pitch neutral players can move freely on their sides from here to here and this one from here to here ideally each player has to have the limit of three touches on the ball so on his third touch he has to pass the ball if he makes four the ball goes to another team as soon as the objective is reached so you have at least 15 consecutive passes together they earn one point the drill is played for 15 minutes and you can make it three games of five minutes and the team who ends up with most points has one so another team has to do 50 push-ups now let's move on and take a look how it's played on a real training session.

What is futsal

Futsal started in 1930 when Juan Carlos Ceriani, a teacher in Montevideo, Uruguay, created a version of indoor football for YMCAs.

How To Improve Possession Of The Ball In Futsal

Objective: Possession

Set-up: half of the pitch, no goal-keepers, 3 fields players in each of two teams and 2 neutral players in each team, no goals, at least 1 ball, neutral players are positioned outside of the pitch.

Drill:

• The objective of each team is to make at least 15 consecutive passes together. 15 passes are made (without losing the ball) - 1 point is scored.
• Each player has the limit of 3 touches on the ball (means - with the third touch he should pass the ball). Passes can be made to neutral players. If neutral player receives a pass, he should enter the pitch and the one, who passes the ball, should become a neutral player (players exchange their roles).

Intensity: High

Duration: 3 games of 5 minutes each

DOWNLOAD THIS DRILL IN PDF - HERE

Watch the video - How To Improve Possession Of The Ball In Futsal

tags: hey guys my name is coach artyom samoylov on this channel we discuss futsal tactics and futsal coaching in this video we are going to take a look at the drill which is going to help you to improve the collective position of the ball if you are struggling with making several consecutive passes together this drill is going to help you and then we are going to move and take a look at how it's played on a real training session and finally you can go in the description of this video and download the free pdf with this drill you can print it out and take it to your training session easily so the drill is designed in a way so it's very intense and very dynamic it simulates the game situation very much so your players are not only going to learn from it they're also going to love it so you are using the half of the chord you have three players of each team inside this half of the chord and also you have two neutral players in each team so you can see that white team has two players in here and the black team has two players in here use all the balls you have on the training session and if the ball goes out don't chase it just take the nearest ball and continue playing so the job of those players who are inside of this half of the court is going to be to make at least 15 consecutive passes together without losing a ball they can use their respective teammates outside of the court but if an actual player receives the ball he has to go into the court even if he makes a pass he has to engage and the player who made a pass to him has to go up so at any moment of time there has to be only three field players inside the pitch neutral players can move freely on their sides from here to here and this one from here to here ideally each player has to have the limit of three touches on the ball so on his third touch he has to pass the ball if he makes four the ball goes to another team as soon as the objective is reached so you have at least 15 consecutive passes together they earn one point the drill is played for 15 minutes and you can make it three games of five minutes and the team who ends up with most points has one so another team has to do 50 push-ups now let's move on and take a look how it's played on a real training session.

How to open-up for a pass: Drill to improve creating passing lines

Objective: Creating passing lines

Set-up: full pitch, no goal-keepers, 5 fields players in each of two teams, no goals, at least 1 ball.

Drill:

The pitch is divided into 4 equal zones. The rules is, that ”at any point of time in one zone there can only be maximum 2 players of one team”. The objective of each team is make 10 consecutive passes. 10 passes are made (without losing the ball) - 1 point is scored.

If a third player of the same team enters a zone, the ball should be given to an opponent.

Intensity: High

Duration: 2 games of 10 minutes each

Variations: Put a goal-keeper in goals. Now team would have 1 goal-keeper and 5 field players each. Play normal futsal game. The restriction “maximum two players of each team in one zone at any point of time” remains.

DOWNLOAD THIS DRILL FOR FREE - HERE

How to play 5v4 - Futsal Drill

Objective: Learn to play 5v4 situations (both in defense and in attack)

Set-up: full pitch, 1 goal-keeper, 9 fields players, 2 big (futsal) goals, 2 small goals, at least 1 ball, cannot play behind small goals.

Drill: White team has a fifth field player (nr.5). The job objective of white team is to score to the left goal. Black team has to defend their goal and try to score to the goal on the right. If white team scores, it counts as 1 point.

Black team has two options: to score in futsal (big) goal or in any of two smaller goals. If black team scores in smaller goals it counts as one point.

If black team scores in big goal, it counts are 2 points. If black team scores in futsal (big) goal, then it only counts, if it is done within two touches of the ball.

Intensity: High

Duration: 10 minutes each game.

P.S. Make sure, teams switch sides every 10 minutes. That is needed for every player to experience different roles.

DOWNLOAD THIS DRILL IN PDF - CLICK HERE

Futsal 5v4 training ~ How To Learn Futsal Powerplay

In this video we will learn to use futsal powerplay. Both in defense and attack. Futsal 5v4 situations are very frequent thing, so every team must be ready to defend in 5v4 and also to attack in 5v4. The drill, which is represented in this video will help you coach a team to play futsal powerplay. This drill can be used by any team. Even by teams with no training process or a coach.

PDF: Futsal Shooting Drill nr.20

The main objective of the drill is to teach a player with the ball to create opportunity for a shot and shoot as soon as he has this opportunity.

Download the drill in PDF (for free) and take it to your next training session!

Download link - FUTSALICODVD_com_-_Futsal_Drill_nr_20.pdf

Futsal Shooting Training by Artyom Samoylov

Proper Futsal Warm-up | How Futsal Team of Spain are doing it