How to Overcome Self-Doubt to Play

A common phrase heard from players not playing well is:
"I just don’t have any confidence."

 

Confidence in soccer is a delicate balancing act. 

• Too much, and you can become arrogant. 

• Too little, and you struggle to perform. 

 

In my role, as a coach, both personalities can be challenging to work with. 

The key is finding the right balance—where you feel challenged, yet enjoy the game and are willing to “grow”!

​

So, why do some players lose confidence, and how can you regain it? Let’s break it down.

​

Understanding Confidence in Soccer

Confidence isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. 

It varies from player to player and can be influenced by numerous factors, things like:

• playing time, 

• competition, 

• form, 

• coach expectations, 

• team dynamics.

AND ............................…………. What builds confidence in one player might not work for another.

 

One of the most crucial aspects of confidence is preparedness. 

When you are technically sharp, tactically aware, and physically ready, you should naturally feel more comfortable on the field. 

That comfort translates into belief in your own ability. 

 

This all begins with your training habits.

"Confidence comes from consistency— doing what you should be doing every time, and then trusting that you can do it and you belong there."

 

Confidence is earned through repetition, discipline, and a strong foundation in core skills. 

Repetition, in itself, is not enough, if you do something badly over and over again, it becomes a bad habit!

 

If you put in the work, consistently, in training, to develop good habits and belief in yourself, then you know you’ve prepared for the moment.

 

Your OWN responsibility in building confidence as a player

Confidence isn’t something a coach, teammate, or parent can simply give a player—it must come from within. It, like bravery & enthusiasm, cannot be coached!

A player must take ownership of your development by consistently pushing yourself to improve, in all areas of your game.

Form and confidence go hand in hand, but progress isn’t always linear. 

Football is a game of ups and downs, and EVERY player experiences rough patches. 

 

The key question is: What are you doing to stay ahead?

​

Habits That Build Confidence

1. Master the Basics – A strong technical foundation is crucial. Players who can control the ball, pass accurately, and execute skill under pressure will always feel more confident. Understand what your core strengths are and keep reminding yourself!

2. Commit to Daily Improvement – Confidence comes from preparation. You should be training, analyzing your performances, and seeking ways to improve daily. 

3. Develop a Strong Mindset – Football is as much mental as it is physical. You should practice self-belief, visualization, and mental resilience.

 

Confidence Must Be Constant

Confidence isn’t just something you should have when things are going well—that’s not confidence, that’s momentum. 

 

True confidence means trusting in yourself even when you’re struggling.

You need to remind yourself:

• Form is temporary. Even the best players in the world go through slumps.

• Failure is part of growth. Mistakes are learning opportunities.

• You belong. If you’ve put in the work, trust yourself. Focus on only the next action.

 

How to Regain Confidence When It’s Lost

What happens when your confidence completely disappears? 

It’s difficult to rebuild, but not impossible. 

 

The most effective way to reset your confidence is often changing the environment—whether that means adjusting training routines, playing in a different position, or even seeking a fresh challenge in a new team (which no  coach wants to see!)

(Some may see this as an easy way out, but in reality, it’s often the hardest thing to do.) 

 

When confidence dips

• doubt creeps in. 

• you start hesitating, second-guessing decisions, and playing with fear, rather than freedom.

 

If this happens, it’s essential to go back to basics:
✅ Train deliberately and consistently.
✅ Set small, achievable goals.
✅ Focus on your strengths instead of overanalyzing weaknesses.
✅ Surround yourself with positive influences—coaches, teammates, and mentors who push you to grow. They give you valuable insights to help you improve.

✅ Remind yourself, and others, what you do well and what you can have self confidence in

​

Confidence Defines a Player’s Performance

Confidence in soccer means believing in your ability to perform under pressure, trusting your skills, and playing without fear of failure. 

It’s a mental game as much as a physical one.

If you’re a player looking to regain belief in yourself, remember: Confidence comes from preparation, resilience, and embracing both success and failure.

​

So, the next time you step on the pitch

• trust yourself. 

• play with conviction. 

• aim to do the little things, better!

And most importantly, enjoy the game.