The art of Futsal goalkeeping

By Greg Demetriou

Fast and frenetic

Slender victories
Italy's march to UEFA European Futsal Championship glory earlier this year emphasised the importance of good goalkeeping. They conceded just three goals in their five matches with the excellence of Gianfranco Angelini, and at times Marco Ripesi, a major factor. High-scoring games are not uncommon in Futsal, but with these two performing heroics whenever called upon, the Azzurri were able to win all but one match by a one-goal margin.

Defensive strength
Angelini is a formidable sight. The bulky AS Roma player fills the goal and makes it nearly impossible for opposing forwards to find a way through. After helping Italy defeat Ukraine 1-0 in the championship final, he focused on the organisation on the back. "We had prepared very well," he said. "We worked hard on our defence."

Fine performer
When asked about the secret of his success, he joked "I am very strong", but his stature was no laughing matter for those who tried to beat him. While Ripsei is an agile and nimble shot-stopper, qualities that mark him out as an equally fine performer, Angelini also demonstrated other traits that are fundamental to Futsal goalkeeping.

Smaller ball
An understanding of the game and good vision are prerequisites with Angelini frequently starting attacks with a long throw or pass forward. Strong reflexes are also vital, with shots coming from any angle at lightning speed, often at point-blank range. Indeed, the Futsal goalkeeper very rarely catches when making a save as the smaller, less bouncy, Futsal ball makes it harder to grasp.

Communication vital
Vic Hermans, the Dutch national team coach, said another vital attribute was the ability to communicate. "The goalkeeper can coach the players in front of him," he said, adding that it was also useful to find goalkeepers who were comfortable in possession in case they are needed to venture up field. He added: "When looking for a good goalkeeper, I am searching for one who can play and shoot as well."

Star man
Belgian goalkeeper Marc Vandecaetsbeek is a good example of the all-round goalkeeper. A star performer at the recent championship, he particularly impressed in the 1-1 draw with holders Spain keeping his backline organised and pulling off save after save. He said he relished playing against the stronger teams: "For me it is always good to play against teams like Spain, as you get a lot of work to do. If you start off well and make three or four saves you are then confident for the rest of the match."

More professionalism
Things can only get better too as more clubs and nations adopt a professional approach. T-Interim Borgerhout shot-stopper Vandecaetsbeek revealed that the Belgians in Italy "were all amateurs, with jobs to do", but hoped that the future would allow for more concentration on Futsal. "The clubs are going a good way in Belgium," he said. With more training opportunities likely, the art of Futsal goalkeeping is set to reach even greater heights.