An ambitious long-range pass that looks spectacular when it works but isn't the smart option. Players try them to impress rather than because they're the best choice. A 60-yard diagonal might look great on highlights but ignores three shorter passes that would've kept the attack going. Coaches hate Hollywood balls because they indicate poor decision-making.
Paul Pogba was criticized for playing Hollywood balls too often at Manchester United - his 50-yard switches of play were impressive when they worked but led to turnovers when simpler passes were available.
Robbie
Jan 23, 2026
A pass that puts your teammate in danger of getting clattered. Usually a slow ball that arrives right as a defender's closing in at full speed. Called a hospital ball because the recipient might end up there. Careless passing under pressure creates them. Good teammates don't play hospital balls; bad ones get their midfielders injured.
Playing a hospital ball in midfield can end careers - a slow pass across the pitch invites a full-speed challenge, and the receiving player has no time to protect themselves before they get wiped out.
Robbie
Feb 5, 2026