In a nutshell, here are the five points to taking a free kick just like Cristiano Ronaldo: 1. Put the ball down and take five strides back. 2. Take a deep breath and decide where you are going to aim. 3. Plant your foot at the side of the ball and hit with the instep of your kicking foot.

Hit the ball on the valve – hardest part of the ball where you put the air into it Step near the ball to make a divot when you place the ball down Stand directly behind the ball where you want the ball to go Hit the ball with the laces (through the valve area of the ball) Keep your knee down and over the ball No back lift – don’t follow through and land on the shooting foot, just strike through the ball

Stand with your legs apart and arms by your sides for a strong stance, look down at the valve of the ball and where you are aiming to strike it then focus on the goal before returning to the ball. Take a deep breath to regulate your breathing and then prepare to strike. Focus is key for this kick.

Perfecting the technique for striking the ball in a free kick, like Ronaldo does, demands precision and skill. It involves mastering the right knuckleball technique, laces, and the trajectory of the ball. The most important part of the kick is the connection, power, and spin, which are crucial for achieving the desired outcome.