FUTSAL clearly emphasizes skill rather than crude physical power. The smaller, heavier and 30% less bounce ball may be a nice instrument in promoting individual technical development and makes it easier for rookies to get into the game. Furthermore FUTSAL enables the player to develop faster, due to the much more frequented number of ball touches compared to conventional soccer.
On the strength of the small number of players in a FUTSAL team it is crucial for every player to defend and attack, that leads to a development of defensive and attacking mentalities. Moreover statistical studies are proving that FUTSAL players touch the ball 210% more often than players of indoor soccer with walls. On that basis the players become familiar with different positions and promote the ability to solve tactical problems under pressure.
Modern soccer is characterized by its fast pace. The limited space on a FUTSAL court, constant opponent pressure and the 4s restart rule force the player to make quick technical as well as tactical decisions, that helps to become more confident and to prepare for the modern soccer standards. In addition the high intensity allows participation for all team members, consequently development opportunities for everyone.
Significantly the goalkeepers have to be more active than in outdoor soccer. They learn to move with the ball, to stay in line with the ball and to be an active part of the attack as a fifth player. Thus they learn to think as a player and a goalkeeper at the same time, which can be very helpful to their overall game.
