Goalkeeper Shooting Angle Drill
Attackers Defenders Neutral Goalkeeper Pass Run Dribble Shot
The Goalkeeper Shooting Angle drill sharpens the footwork that decides whether a keeper reaches the shot at all. Servers spread around the edge of the box move the ball before shooting, so the goalkeeper must constantly re-position, set their feet, and react. It is a core goalkeeping drill for U9-U16 keepers who need cleaner angles and quicker resets.
This drill pairs well with others in the goalkeeping category, and you can find age-matched sessions under U13 drills.
Setup
- Position 6-10 servers spread along the outer edge of the penalty area, facing the goal.
- Give every server a ball.
- Put the goalkeeper in the goal, ready in the center.
How It Works
- The first server pushes their ball left, right, or straight ahead, then strikes a shot on goal.
- As the ball moves, the goalkeeper shuffles to stay in line between the ball and the center of the goal.
- The keeper sets their feet in a ready position just before the strike and makes the save.
- Immediately after the save, the keeper resets position for the next server.
- Work through all servers, then repeat the circuit or rotate keepers.
Coaching Points
- Quick, short shuffle steps - never cross the feet while moving.
- Stay on the line between ball and goal as the ball travels; the angle is the save.
- Feet must be set and still at the moment of the shot.
- React explosively to the strike instead of guessing early.
- Catch cleanly with strong hands whenever possible rather than parrying.
Variations
- Have servers call out or disguise their shot direction to test the keeper's reading of the striker.
- Alternate low drives and rising shots so the keeper handles different heights.
- Add a second keeper and alternate saves to build in recovery time.