What is your mindset going into a big game?
When is a “big” soccer match too big?
There are two mindsets heading into a big game:
- Performance-Enhancing Mindset: “This is an important game. I really need to focus and be aggressive.” This mindset narrows your focus on your preparation and plan to play at your peak.
- Performance-Hindering Mindset: “This is a huge game. I better not mess up.” This mindset is based on fear.
The fear of making mistakes or losing takes your focus away from playing the game and causes you to worry about the negative consequences of under performance.
In the performance-enhancing mindset, you recognize the significance of the game but are able to manage expectations. In the negative mindset, you overemphasize the importance of the game, which causes a build-up of worry and anxiety.
Let’s apply both mindsets to the following scenario…
You are playing in an end-of-the-year tournament. Your team made it to the quarterfinals for the first time ever. If you have a performance-enhancing (positive) mindset, you understand the situation and are able to put it in perspective to motivate you.
Knowing that it is a playoff game, you recognize the importance of preparing, being locked in, understanding your role, and being committed to giving it your all. This mindset has you fully immersed in the present moment.
If you have a performance-hindering (negative) mindset, you make the game bigger than it is. You are fearful of being the reason your team loses and are focused on the possible outcome of the game.
In this mindset, you are distracted, worried, apprehensive, and indecisive throughout the game.
In the Olympics, mindset often determines the winner and loser in matches. In the Paris Olympics, the US men’s team was looking to make history.
No United States men’s soccer team had even qualified for an Olympics since 2008. After having a record of 1-1 in group play, a win against Guinea would advance Team USA to the quarterfinals for the first time in 24 years.
Before the game against Guinea, USMNT midfielder Jack McGlynn said he and his teammates are well aware of the stakes.
McGLYNN: “I think to now be here — we kind of understand the significance. The older guys here have also talked to us about the moment — how big it is and how big it could be if we make it to the next stage, too.”
Mindset is a choice. The mindset you choose before a game will either help or hinder your play. So, what will your choice be?
Focus on getting your mind right before the game. Put the game into perspective so your mindset works for you rather than against you.
Tell yourself, “This is the same 90-minute game we have played all season. We earned this playoff spot because we played at a high level. Now, it’s time to play hard, smart, and aggressive.”
Your pregame mindset dictates how you will play in the opening moments, which can lead to momentum.
Related Sports Psychology Articles
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- Help Your Soccer Team Focus for the Playoffs
- Finishing A Season When Out of The Playoffs
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