Table Football Strategy

Table football, also called foosball, bar football or table soccer is a game involving small wooden or plastic "players" that are controlled by using rotating handles on the two longer sides of the table. The field is similar to a traditional soccer field, and much of the same strategy also applies to table football.

Stance

The stance of the player is a key component to winning. A player must angle his footing to give maximum rotational leverage on the handle as well as facilitate comfortable movement between handles or players. If playing doubles, players should position themselves so their arms and elbows are not interfering with each other.

Ball Movement

The object of table football is to get the ball into the opponent's goal more times than he gets it into your goal. Moving the ball strategically toward your opponent's goal using precision passing and maintaining possession are key strategies. Advancing the ball from line to line and opening up your team for quality shots on goal is the most effective way to score.

Shot Style

Depending on the player in possession of the ball, and the looks of the defense, various shot maneuvers can be used to maximize scoring opportunities. Techniques like the pull shot, push shot, bank shot, rollover shot, spray shot and dead man shot all present strengths and weaknesses in different game situations. Setting yourself up for the right kinds of shots on goal is more effective than just shooting blindly.