Core Topic 2: Using Disguise
Module: Master The Opponent: 7-12 Years Old Classroom: Use The 360TFT Game Model Original Location: https://www.skool.com/football-coaching-academy-5676/classroom
TLDR
The best players don’t just beat defenders, they make them hesitate. Disguise is what gives players that edge. A quick shift of the body, a feint with the eyes, or a disguised pass can change everything. At this age, players are learning to take opponents on, but if all they do is go straight, they become predictable.
I help players exaggerate their body language to sell the move because small movements get ignored whilst big movements make defenders commit. I pair deception with timing because what comes after the disguise matters most. I use 1v1 games with constraints, requiring players to beat opponents with a move, not just pace. I show how to use disguise in passing, not just dribbling.
Progressive development moves from mirror work without the ball learning body movements, to passive defender who reacts but can’t tackle, to active 1v1 with full pressure, to game context where players choose when to deceive based on situation.
Common problems include moves too small to fool anyone (start with exaggerated movements), always using the same move (give them a plan B), doing the move but going nowhere (focus on the exit), and only trying moves when winning comfortably (celebrate attempts in tight games).
Key coaching points include “sell it with your whole body,” “make them plant their foot,” “exit quick after the move,” “sometimes simple is better,” and “eyes can lie too.” Disguise extends beyond dribbling to passing deception, receiving deception, and movement deception. The best players use deception in every aspect, not just 1v1s.
Why This Topic Matters
The best players don’t just beat defenders, they make them hesitate. Disguise is what gives players that edge. A quick shift of the body, a feint with the eyes, or a disguised pass can change everything.
At this age, players are learning to take opponents on. But if all they do is go straight, they become predictable. This topic teaches them how to mislead, to delay the defender’s reaction, and to create just enough space to play forward.
It’s not about flair for flair’s sake. It’s about control.
How We Coach It
We help players exaggerate their body language to sell the move
Small movements get ignored. Big movements make defenders commit.
We pair deception with timing
What comes after the disguise matters most. The move creates opportunity, the next action exploits it.
We use 1v1 games with constraints
Consider requiring players to beat opponents with a move, not just pace.
We show how to use disguise in passing, not just dribbling
A fake shot that becomes a pass. A no-look ball that splits the defence.
We often start with rehearsed actions like feints and drag-backs, but we push for decision-making too: When to use disguise, when to be direct, and how to read the opponent’s body. Some players naturally love deception, others need encouragement to try it.
What Success Looks Like
Think of Kevin De Bruyne, he can fake a shot, then thread a pass. Or Messi, who waits, hesitates, and then bursts. It’s not just technique, it’s awareness and timing.
We want players who can hold a defender for a moment, then make the most of that hesitation. That could be in a 1v1, or in tight passing situations where the opponent doesn’t see the play coming.
Disguise gives players control. And players with control shape the game.
Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Moves are too small to fool anyone | Start with exaggerated movements. Make it theatrical, then refine. |
| Always uses the same move | Make it a “supermove”, but give them a plan B. |
| Does the move, but goes nowhere | Focus on the exit. The move creates space, now exploit it. |
| Only tries moves when winning comfortably | Celebrate attempts in tight games. Reward bravery over outcome. |
Progressive Development
Stage 1: Mirror Work
No ball, just body movements. Players learn to sell the fake with shoulders and hips.
Stage 2: Passive Defender
Defender reacts but can’t tackle. Players see how movement creates reaction.
Stage 3: Active 1v1
Full pressure. Players learn when disguise works and when direct is better.
Stage 4: Game Context
Disguise in small-sided games. Players choose when to deceive based on situation.
Remember, some players are natural deceivers, others prefer directness. Both can work.
Key Coaching Points
- “Sell it with your whole body” (not just feet)
- “Make them plant their foot” (commitment point)
- “Exit quick after the move” (exploit the space)
- “Sometimes simple is better” (know when not to use it)
- “Eyes can lie too” (look one way, play another)
These work for most players, but adapt based on what clicks with your group.
Building the Skill
Start Simple
Basic stepovers, body feints, and check moves
Add Variety
Encourage players to develop 3-4 go-to moves
Create Competition
1v1 tournaments where style points matter
Connect to Games
Show where their moves worked in matches
Some players will master 10 moves, others perfect 2. Both approaches can succeed.
Disguise Beyond Dribbling
Passing Deception
- No-look passes
- Fake shot to pass
- Wrong-foot deliveries
Receiving Deception
- Let the ball run (dummy)
- Fake to control one way, take it another
- Body shape that suggests one option, choose another
Movement Deception
- Check away, then sprint back
- Point one direction, move another
- Slow down to speed up
The best players use deception in every aspect, not just 1v1s.
This content is part of the 360TFT Football Coaching Academy - Use The 360TFT Game Model