The former national team goalkeeper and current coach of the Iranian women’s national futsal team goalkeepers and one of the best Asian goalkeeping coaches and AFC goalkeeping instructor, has published a very useful article here that can be a good guide for futsal goalkeepers.
Key aspects of developing a futsal goalkeeper
The development of a futsal goalkeeper involves developing a combination of technical skills, tactical understanding and physical attributes specific to the fast and dynamic nature of futsal.
These include mastering quick reflexes, agility in shot-stopping techniques and the ability to distribute the ball effectively.
Futsal goalkeepers must also develop their game-reading abilities, communication with teammates and overall tactical awareness.
Key Aspects of Futsal Goalkeeping Development
1 Technical Skills
2 Tactical Awareness
3 Physical Attributes
4 Mental and Psychological Attributes.
A: Technical Skills
Agility and Footwork:
Goalkeepers must be able to move quickly and effectively within their area, cover the goal quickly and make saves from different angles.
Shooting Skills:
Familiarity with the different types of shots (low shots, high shots, free kicks and toe-kicks, etc.)
and the ability to react quickly and effectively to them is crucial.
Ball Distribution:
A futsal goalkeeper is expected to be comfortable with the ball in a variety of ways, including distributing and passing the ball quickly and accurately between teammates with their hands or feet.
Diving and Positioning:
Understanding how to dive correctly and knowing where to position themselves in the goal to maximize their chances of making saves.
B: Tactical awareness:
Reading the game, the ability to predict the movement of the ball and the movements of the opposing players and make decisions based on it in the best possible way
Positioning:
Knowing where to stand on the field to cover the goal and to use the best defense and countering techniques against all types of attacks, such as long, sharp balls and shots.
Understanding the rules of futsal:
Knowing the specific rules of futsal, such as the 4-second rule for releasing the ball and the two-touch rule for returning the ball to the goalkeeper.
Physical characteristics:
The high agility and speed of futsal require modern and contemporary goalkeepers to be agile and quick in running and moving, which requires having the right weight and physique.
Reflexes:
Proper reflexes are essential for blocking fast shots and excellent reaction to unexpected situations.
Cardiovascular fitness and endurance:
Goalkeepers must have a good level of endurance and cardiovascular fitness so that they can work at high intensity during the game and not fall during the match.
Strength and flexibility: Goalkeepers must be strong and flexible so that they can control the balls and maintain their position in the goal and be a symbol and manifestation of strength and toughness in a team.
Mental and psychological characteristics:
A: Focus and attention: Maintaining focus and attention throughout the game, especially in high-pressure situations.
B: Confidence and self-belief: Building confidence in one’s abilities, and believing in one’s own abilities during game time.
C: Mental and psychological adaptability and flexibility:
The ability to adapt to different game situations and return to normal after a mistake during the match.
