We’ve all heard of futsal, and many of us have probably tried the game. Many compare the fast-paced game to 5-a-side, but there are elements that are a different. There are those coaches and players that think a futsal player can’t make it as a full 11 v. 11 player, or a professional football player. But there are plenty of pros today that think that isn’t true.

What is futsal?

According to the England FA’s guide on the game: “Futsal is an exciting, fast-paced small sided football game that originates from South America in the 1930s. It is widely played across the world, and is the small sided football format that is officially recognised by both UEFA and FIFA. The nature of the game places a large emphasis on technical skill and ability in situations of high pressure, and is subsequently an excellent breeding ground for football competencies that can be translated into the 11-a-side format of the game. Many of the top world class footballers played Futsal in their youth and credit it with supporting their footballing development. Players of the calibre of Pele, Zico, Ronaldinho, Kaka, Lionel Messi to name but a few of the South American legends all played and enjoyed Futsal. But Futsal has not just helped produce South American football stars, on the European stage, Cristiano Ronaldo, Iniesta, Xavi, Fabregas amongst many others have played Futsal to develop their skills.”

Benefits of futsal

Think about the intricate, quick passing that teams like Barcelona play. That is the type of passing and movement that futsal helps bring out in players. While traditional 5-a-side can be slow a plodding, and long, over the top pass can be a regular occurrence, futsal is much different.

One of the benefits of the game is the space. According to futsal Canada: “A small field with lines puts players constantly under pressure from other players and out-of-play boundaries. Players must learn to settle the ball rapidly, cut sharply, shield effectively, pass quickly and move into space. Compared to walled soccer or large indoor field soccer, futsal places a greater premium on ball control. There is no reward for errant passes, because the other team gets the ball. There is no reward for errant shots because the other team gets the ball. There is no incentive to ‘kick and run’ because the field is too small and packed with players. Players with the ball must use proper technique to maintain control and must seek out other players in space. Players without the ball must move to ‘real’ space and must truly support their teammates.

Difference between 5-a-side and futsal

You’ve probably played 5-a-side at football training, and if you haven’t played futsal, you probably don’t realise the differences. The 5-a-side game is just a scaled down version of a full side match. So, pitches can vary and size five balls are used in games. However, futsal uses size four balls, has distinct rules and pitch dimensions, and is usually played indoors on a court. The smaller ball allows players to improve foot-eye coordination and control. The court makes the speed of the game faster.

Although there are similarities between the two, there are major differences. Futsal is a great way to improve your skills, and taking up the game could make you a better 11-a-side player in the future.