Focus in the mind, fire in the heart: keys for football before the match

In modern football, mental preparation is just as important as physical or technical training. It’s becoming increasingly clear that players who know how to manage their focus before a match have a key competitive advantage. Being present, focused, and mentally aligned with the team’s objectives can make the difference between an outstanding performance and a forgettable match.

In this context, SIA Academy has developed a comprehensive approach that includes mental focus tools as an essential part of training. Under the guidance of its multidisciplinary team, especially in the area of sports psychology, players learn from an early age to control their emotions, reduce distractions, and step onto the pitch with the right mindset.

Being “in the game” starts long before kickoff

Many people believe performance starts when the ball starts rolling, but in reality, preparation begins hours or even days before. Nerves, overthinking, expectations, or outside pressure can all affect focus if not properly managed.

According to José Luis, sports psychologist at SIA Academy:

“A focused player isn’t someone who blocks out emotions, but someone who recognizes them and knows how to redirect their energy toward performance. Focus is something you can train, and it’s one of the keys to sustained high-level performance.”

From this perspective, the academy incorporates pre-match routines that help players activate mind and body in harmony. These routines include specific techniques such as visualization, conscious breathing, and setting clear objectives.

Techniques that make the difference

Throughout the training process at SIA Academy, various focus techniques are applied that have proven effective both in professional practice and in the development of young talent:

1. Guided visualization

Visualization involves imagining detailed moments of the match: receiving the ball, making a pass, defending a play, or scoring a goal. This technique helps the brain anticipate responses and build confidence before the game begins. Academy psychologists use it especially before important matches or in high-pressure situations.

2. Diaphragmatic breathing

Controlling your breath is a powerful way to reduce the physiological activation caused by nerves or stress. At SIA, players are taught conscious breathing exercises to lower their heart rate, center their attention, and regain mental control at key moments.

3. Personal activation routines

Every player may have a different routine: listening to music, praying, warming up in a specific way, or repeating a motivational phrase. What matters is that this routine creates a “psychological anchor” that signals the brain it’s time to compete. The academy encourages each player to discover their own pre-game ritual as part of their competitive identity.

4. Staying present

One of the biggest threats to focus is anticipatory thinking: worrying about the result, imagining mistakes, or thinking about external opinions. At SIA, players are taught to stay in the here and now. As José Luis explains:

“We teach players to use ‘key phrases’ that bring them back to the present. Phrases like ‘keep it simple,’ ‘here and now,’ or ‘do it easy’ work as mental reminders to avoid drifting away from the match.”

Team focus: a shared language

In football, individual focus is important—but collective focus is essential. At SIA Academy, teams are trained to develop a shared language that helps maintain the group’s mental cohesion. Words, gestures, and slogans reinforce emotional connection and shared attention, even in high-pressure moments.

Positive communication and mutual support are also promoted as tools to keep energy and focus high. A team that feeds off each other mentally is more resilient under pressure.

Beyond the match

Focus techniques aren’t just for the hour before a match. They’re part of a daily process: in training, in study, in life together. A competitive mindset is built through small daily habits.

SIA Academy believes in this holistic development, convinced that developing great players also means developing strong minds. Focus isn’t a switch you turn on and off—it’s a skill cultivated every day.

In an increasingly demanding and competitive football environment, mental mastery is a game-changing advantage. The ability to concentrate before a match can transform not just a player’s performance, but their long-term career.

Thanks to the approach of academies like SIA, todays and tomorrow’s footballers are no longer training only with the ball at their feet, but with a sharp mind and a focused heart.

La entrada Focus in the mind, fire in the heart: keys for football before the match se publicó primero en International Football Academy Soccer Interaction in Spain - Academia de fútbol.