When it comes to being an elite forward, the skill set goes beyond scoring goals. It’s about mastering every angle of attack and becoming an unstoppable force on the field. In this post, we’re going deep into the blueprint every aspiring striker needs to elevate their game and become the go-to player for big moments.
Clinical Finishing
A top forward is known for their precision and cool-headedness in front of goal. When the moment arrives, there’s no hesitation—just calm, composed, and accurate finishing. Elite forwards don’t waste opportunities; they make every touch count. If you want to dominate, focus on finding that calm under pressure, so that in those crucial moments, you’re locked in, ready to strike with purpose and confidence.
Explosive Speed
Speed isn’t just about sprinting—it’s about those first few steps that make defenders second-guess themselves. Acceleration is your weapon for creating space and chances. In tight situations, that burst of speed can be the difference between a shot on goal or a defender’s block. Practice sprinting drills that enhance your ability to change pace quickly. This explosiveness will put defenders on their heels and give you the edge in one-on-one situations.
Creative Movement
An elite forward never stands still, waiting for the ball to come to them. Instead, they’re always on the move, finding open spaces, creating passing lanes, and staying unpredictable. By continuously moving and adjusting, you’re not only creating options for yourself but also drawing defenders out of position, opening up more scoring opportunities. Work on reading the game and anticipating where the ball will land so you can always stay a step ahead.
First Touch Control
Control is everything. A forward’s first touch can either set them up for success or spell a lost opportunity. Whether you’re under pressure or in the box, a sharp, controlled first touch puts you in command. Practice receiving the ball from all angles and positions, focusing on instant control. Mastering this skill will give you the edge in high-stakes moments when every second counts.
Versatility in Finishing
Headers, volleys, one-touch finishes, finesse shots, power strikes—an elite forward has a toolkit of finishing moves and knows when to use each one. This unpredictability is what keeps defenders guessing. Train with a variety of finishing techniques so that you can seamlessly adapt to any scenario. Becoming proficient with multiple finishing styles will make you a versatile threat that’s hard to defend.
Off-Ball Awareness
The best forwards aren’t just active with the ball; they’re engaged even without it. Knowing where to position yourself, reading the play, and anticipating the next move are essential skills. Elite forwards find themselves a step ahead by understanding the flow of the game. Off-ball awareness keeps you engaged, helping you move into the right spaces at the right time, making you more effective and unpredictable on the field.
Playmaking Ability
Great forwards don’t just score—they create. Dropping back to link up play, setting up teammates, and building momentum are crucial skills. A forward who can playmake and not only finish is invaluable to any team. This combination of scoring and playmaking makes you a complete player, capable of turning the tide in your team’s favor at any moment.
Relentless Work Rate
Waiting for the ball isn’t enough. An elite forward is always on the hunt, pressing hard, winning back possession, and constantly challenging defenders. This relentless energy not only keeps you engaged but also exhausts the opposition, creating more opportunities for your team. Cultivate a mentality that refuses to back down, always looking for ways to impact the game, even without the ball at your feet.
Strength and Physicality
The best forwards can hold their own in physical challenges, shielding defenders and keeping control under pressure. Strength allows you to hold up play and create chances for teammates. Focus on developing the physicality needed to battle defenders and maintain possession. This strength will add a new dimension to your game, allowing you to dominate in close-contact situations.
Mental Toughness
Every forward will miss chances and face tough defenses, but it’s the ability to bounce back that defines the greats. Missed shots, rough games, and tight marking are all part of the game. An elite forward has the mental toughness to push past setbacks, stay focused, and keep looking for the next opportunity. Cultivate resilience and keep your mind sharp, knowing that the next chance is always just around the corner.
Positional Flexibility
Whether you’re playing centrally, on the wing, or dropping deeper, an elite forward adapts to fit the team’s needs. This positional flexibility makes you an indispensable part of any lineup. Practice playing from different positions, building the confidence to take on various roles. The more adaptable you are, the more valuable you’ll be to your team.
The Final Word
If you’re committed to becoming the forward who can finish games, dominate in any role, and bring relentless energy, focus on mastering these traits. Clinical finishing, explosive speed, creative movement, and a relentless work rate are all critical. Embrace this blueprint, put in the work, and you’ll become the forward that every team relies on.
Let’s build forwards who finish games! Tag a teammate who needs to hear this, and let’s get to work.
This blueprint is for those committed to going all the way, designed by David Copeland-Smith, who has spent over 20 years developing forwards that reach the highest levels of the game.