"To nick the ball" means to steal or take the ball away from an opposing player in a sports game, usually by quickly and skillfully intercepting it. Full definition
In the build up to Juve's first goal Costa nicks the ball away from Casemiro. (sbnation.com)
Firmino nicked the ball off Billy Jones and burst into the area, eventually squaring the ball back to give Lallana a simple tap in. (caughtoffside.com)
His height and range aid him in doing this, whilst proving particularly useful to nick the ball in tight situations. (spursfanatic.com)