To lob the keeper means to lift the ball over the goalkeeper and into the net, usually when the keeper is out of position or off their line.[Day 3]
What does it mean?
A lob happens when the ball bounces up and the attacker strikes it before it hits the ground, lifting it over the keeper – not too high (or it goes over the bar) and not too low (or the keeper can save it). A ‘deft touch‘ describes the light, skilful contact needed to do this well. A goalkeeper caught badly out of position for this kind of goal is often described as ‘stranded’ or in ‘no man’s land‘.
Examples
- “…a sensational pass fell perfectly into Saibari’s stride and he casually lobbed over the stranded Alisson.” (The Guardian, June 14 2026)
- She took a touch and lobbed the keeper from the edge of the box.
- It needed real technique – a deft touch to lob the ball just over his despairing dive.
Similar Words/Phrases
- To chip
- To dink
- A deft touch
- Stranded (of a goalkeeper)
Learn More
- Listen to our podcast about this phrase [Day 3]
- Read more about this expression in this post
- Translate it or use it in a sentence on our forum
Related glossary terms
- (a) Knock Back (Day 40)
- To Spill (Day 16)
Categories: 2026 World Cup Phrases
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