Chip a goalkeeper with the right technique, and you don’t just score—you humiliate. It’s one of the boldest and most satisfying finishes in football, but it only works when done with control, timing, and a touch of class.
You’ve seen it done at the highest level—Messi, Benzema, Mbappé—all pulling it off in the most composed way. But this isn’t just a trick move. Chipping the keeper is a tactical decision when power isn’t the answer, and finesse is your best weapon. Learning to execute it properly requires practice and a deeper understanding of the game, which is why it’s a skill often broken down and mastered at technical development environments such as advanced football schools.
Let’s break down how to make this beautiful move part of your scoring toolkit.
Table of Contents
When to Use the Chip
The key to a good chip is reading the moment. Here’s when you should consider it:
✅ The goalkeeper is rushing out quickly
✅ You’re 1v1 and the keeper is off their line
✅ You don’t have the angle or space for a low shot
✅ Power would send the ball straight into the keeper
In these moments, lifting the ball just over the keeper with precision beats brute force every time.
The Mechanics of the Perfect Chip
Let’s talk technique. While it may look effortless, the chip requires control from the ground up.
👣 1. Approach
- Slow your steps slightly as you near the ball
- Keep your head up to read the keeper’s position
- Stay composed—rushing kills finesse
🦶 2. Plant Foot Position
- Place it just beside the ball, pointing toward your target
- Keep your body slightly leaning back for lift
🧠 3. Strike Technique
- Use the bottom edge of your foot’s instep (not the toe)
- Hit just underneath the ball to create lift
- Keep your ankle locked and make clean, light contact
You’re not trying to launch the ball—you’re giving it a soft, quick pop.
Key Tips to Improve Your Chip Game
Here’s how to move from lucky lob to reliable finish:
🎯 Aim for the center of the goal
Keep it simple. A chip that’s on target forces the keeper to react.
🧊 Stay calm under pressure
You need a clear head to make the right decision—especially when you’re tempted to blast it.
🦵 Use minimal follow-through
Too much swing = too much power. The motion should be quick and tight.
🎥 Record your practice
Watching your form can help you spot flaws you don’t feel in the moment.
Drills to Practice Chipping a Goalkeeper
🎯 1. Wall Chip Target Drill
- Set up a small goal or marker on a wall
- Practice chipping the ball softly to land on a spot above waist height
- Start from 5 meters, increase distance as you improve
🧍 2. Moving Keeper Simulation
- Have a partner play the role of rushing goalkeeper
- Time your chip just as they start to dive or commit
- Adjust your distance to simulate match scenarios
🧠 3. Decision-Based Drills
- Mix in low finishes, power shots, and chips in one session
- React to cues like cone colors or coach signals for which type to use
- Trains your brain to read and choose the right moment
These drills not only build muscle memory—they sharpen your in-game instincts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Leaning too far back – The ball ends up in the clouds
🚫 Using the toe – No control, just chaos
🚫 Panicking – The chip is about patience, not panic
🚫 Overusing it – Not every 1v1 needs a chip. Pick your moment
Remember: the chip should surprise the keeper, not become your go-to every chance you get.
Mental Game: Confidence Is Key
Even with great technique, if you don’t believe in the move, it’ll show. The chip is as much psychological as it is physical.
- Visualize the keeper rushing
- Picture the ball rising and dropping under the crossbar
- Stay relaxed—confidence sells the move
When you trust your touch, the chip becomes instinct.
Finesse Over Force
Mastering how to chip a goalkeeper is about understanding timing, executing the right touch, and having the guts to go for it when the moment opens up. It’s a move that rewards creativity and punishes predictable play.
Practice it. Fail with it. Learn when to use it. And once you own it, you’ll find yourself with a whole new option in front of goal—one that leaves keepers flat-footed and fans on their feet.
Place it. Don’t power it. The chip is your new favorite weapon. ⚽🥶🎯
