Futsal training is key to Brazil's shooting success

MANILA, Philippines – Charting the detailed development of young players in Brazil provides some clues as to why the country has produced strong players and unrivaled free kick takers. The former World Cup venue, Recife Sports Club, is now a training center for the region’s youth, where it all begins with futsal. Futsal is a tight football game played with a much heavier ball and a shorter pitch to train budding players. This version of football has yet to really breakthrough in Europe, but it has long been an essential element of Brazil’s success. -- Mornings @ ANC, June 30, 2014.