In my humble opinion, good shooting skill is relevant to winning games in futsal. Of course dribbling is essential because it helps to bring the ball forward and open up some space but this can be offset with some good run and accurate passes. I prefer to keep dribbling to minimal emphasizing on moving the ball around and player movement.

Probably the next important element is about defending. The equation to successful defending has got to do with how good the players and opponents. A good defender means you can adopt 1-3. But if both teams equal, perhaps 2-2. Finally, if your team is constantly under pressured, you got little choise but to opt for 3-1. How defenders position themselves against their opponents, body movement, involvement of GK, all these add up to good defensive skills. Note that the advantage of having good defenders means increases the chances of ball possession.

Finally, know your team. Know who fit the best position. Sometimes, there is also sacrifice which is unavoidable, putting 1 or even 2 players (that's a big change considering there are only 5 players in futsal) out-of-regular-position in order to counter the opponent (due to speed, dribbling skills, stamina or strength). Knowing your team also means knowing each others movement on the pitch.

Above are just my personal experience. Hope this helps a bit.

This post has been edited by kwyap11: Apr 6 2010, 11:13 AM

a) Player positioning are very important. Good positioning during defence, so you reduce movement and energy. Constantly move around to receive the ball so that you open up more chances during offense. Players must also return when being counter attacked.

b) Individual skills are accurate and precise ball pass (crowded and timing), powerful shot (small pitch and increased chance of scoring) and ball possession skills.

c) Good goalkeeping (can win you matches and add as additional field player).

d) Others are stamina and strength (that makes the difference if continuous playing the 3rd games onwards).