The tests that a football passes to receive a FIFA quality mark

The seven tests
that a football
has to pass to receive
a FIFA quality mark

FIFA football test shape and size retention

Test 7:
Shape and size retention

This test ensures the ball’s shape, pressure and circumference remain constant for the duration of a match and only applies for the top quality FIFA APPROVED balls.

The ball is fired 2,000 times against a steel plate at 50 kilometres per hour. The seams and air valves must remain undamaged and only minimal loss of pressure and changes in roundness and circumference are permitted.

Test 7: Shape and size retention

Goalkeepers around the world watch with trepidation when sharpshooters like Edgar Davids, Francesco Totti and Alvaro Recoba draw back their foot ready to strike. They know that a vicious shot is on its way and can often do little to keep it out.

How to shoot accurately on goal?

Power
The harder you hit the ball at goal, the less time the goalkeeperhas to react. You can add power to your shot by getting your entire body weight behind the shot and transferring it to the ball on contact.

Speed
You need to build up speed like a long jumper. When you reach the ball, keep your balance, plant your non-striking foot next to the ball and hit the ball in the middle or on the top half with your other foot. It is important that you keep your head down and focus your eyes on the ball when you strike it. This channels your upper body strength into the shot.

The follow-through
Try to follow through fully after you have hit your shot. The striking foot should swing out in front of your body. If you hit the ball correctly, both feet will probably lift off the ground for a moment just after impact. You have a better chance of scoring a goal with a hard shot if it goes along the ground towards the far corner of the net.