Pelé Post-Training Extra Finishing

Pelé post-training extra finishing involved staying behind after regular Santos practice to sharpen goalscoring mechanics. This 20 minute session covers volleys, two-footed strikes, heading, and spot kicks.

4 time blocks, 20 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Volley Control and First Touch: 5 min
Receive high passes and finish on the volley with either foot
Two-Footed Corner Placement: 5 min
Alternate left and right foot strikes aimed at the bottom corners
Downward Heading Technique: 5 min
Practice jumping high and directing headers firmly into the ground
Spot Kick Repetitions: 5 min
Take penalty kicks against a goalkeeper to refine composure

About this routine

Pelé post-training extra finishing became a cornerstone of his legendary goalscoring record. Taught by his father Dondinho to master every type of finish, Pelé regularly stayed on the Santos training ground long after his teammates had returned to the changing room. He believed that regular team practice was never enough to build complete instincts in front of goal.

During these individual blocks, Pelé focused on weak areas and high pressure scenarios. He worked with team goalkeepers or youth prospects to practice heading downward off high crosses, striking volleys off mid-air passes, and placing low shots with his weaker left foot. He repeated each movement until the action became second nature.

Any footballer or athlete can adapt this individual finishing drill after team sessions. By dedicating 20 minutes to focused repetitions when exhausted, you build stamina and precision in key scoring zones.

Why this routine works

Builds equal confidence finishing with both left and right feet
Improves heading technique by focusing on downward trajectory
Refines touch and volley mechanics under fatigued conditions

FAQ

What did Pelé do after regular soccer practice?

Pelé stayed on the field after Santos team practice to work on extra finishing, practicing headers, volleys, weak foot shooting, and penalty kicks.

How long did Pelé's extra finishing practice last?

Pelé spent roughly 20 minutes after team sessions repeating specific finishing movements.

Sources

Pelé: The Autobiography, Pelé
Why Soccer Matters, Pelé and Brian Winter