The Rabona kick is a flamboyant and skilful manoeuvre in football that has enthralled audiences and confounded defenders for decades. Named after the Spanish word "rabona," which translates to "playing hooky" or "skipping school," this move involves wrapping one foot around the back of the other to strike the ball.
The first recorded instance of a rabona was executed by the late Brazilian
icon Pelé during a match in the São Paulo state championship back in 1957.
Giovanni "Cocò" Roccotelli is acknowledged for bringing the rabona
into the spotlight in Italy during the 1970s when it was initially referred to
as a "crossed-kick" (known as incrociata in Italian).
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into what the Rabona kick entails,
provide a detailed breakdown of how to execute it, and highlight some of the
iconic players who have perfected this spectacular skill on the pitch.
What is the Rabona Kick?
The Rabona kick is a technique employed in football to shoot, pass, or cross
the ball with one leg wrapped around the back of the other. Characterized by
its flair and unpredictability, this move often catches opponents off guard and
creates scoring opportunities in tight spaces. It demands exceptional
coordination, balance, and timing to execute effectively, making it a favourite
among fans and players alike for its aesthetic appeal and effectiveness.
How to perform the Rabona Kick
Mastering the Rabona kick requires precise technique and dedicated practice to achieve proficiency. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to execute this skill:
Step 1: Positioning
Begin by positioning yourself perpendicular to the direction in which you
intend to kick the ball, with your non-kicking foot planted firmly on the
ground. Your kicking foot should be positioned slightly behind and to the side
of your planted foot, ready to execute the Rabona kick.
Step 2: Preparation
Initiate the Rabona kick by swinging your kicking leg behind your planted
leg, crossing it over the front to make contact with the ball. As you swing
your leg, lean your upper body slightly backward to generate power and maintain
balance throughout the movement.
Step 3: Contact
Make clean contact with the ball using the inside of your kicking foot,
wrapping it around the back of your planted leg. Aim to strike the ball with
precision and sufficient force to achieve your desired outcome, whether it's a
shot, pass, or cross.
Step 4: Follow Through
After striking the ball with the Rabona kick, follow through with your kicking motion to ensure accuracy and power. Maintain your balance and posture throughout the movement to recover quickly for your next action, whether it's maintaining possession or transitioning to a defensive stance.
Players known for the Rabona Kick
Several footballers have showcased their mastery of the Rabona kick on the
field, captivating audiences and leaving defenders in awe. Here are some of the
notable players renowned for their adeptness at this skill:
Ricardo Quaresma: The Portuguese winger is celebrated for his flair and
creativity, often incorporating the Rabona kick to great effect during his
illustrious career.
Angel Di Maria: The Argentine playmaker has demonstrated his proficiency in
the Rabona kick, using it as a weapon in his repertoire of skills to unlock
defenses and create scoring opportunities.
Erik Lamela: The former Tottenham winger famously scored a stunning Rabona
goal in a Premier League match against rivals Arsenal, cementing his reputation
as a master of the technique.
Dimitri Payet: The rabona has been one of the most frequently used skills by
Payet for both club and country. Notably, a number of his assists have resulted
from crosses via the rabona technique.
Giovani dos Santos: The former Mexican midfielder was renowned for his
technical ability and creativity, frequently incorporating the Rabona kick into
his gameplay to outwit opponents and showcase his flair on the field.
Conclusion
The Rabona kick is a captivating skill that adds flair and excitement to the beautiful game of football. While mastering this technique requires dedication and practice, the rewards of executing a successful Rabona kick are well worth the effort. Whether used to shoot, pass, or cross the ball, the Rabona kick exemplifies the creativity and innovation that define football's most talented players. So, the next time you're on the pitch, channel your inner maestro and unleash the Rabona kick to dazzle your teammates and opponents alike.
