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flanken

to cross (the ball)

verb FLAN-ken Rare
Arts & Culture Sports

Also means

to deliver a flank pass

Usage Note

flanken is used specifically when a player sends the ball from the wing into the centre, typically into the penalty area. It is informal but widely understood in football commentary; the noun Flanke is more common in written reports.

Examples

"Er flankte von links, und der Stürmer köpfte ins Tor."

Natural Translation

He crossed from the left, and the striker headed it into the goal.

Literal Translation

He flanked from left, and the striker headed into-the goal.

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