To defend effectively in FIFA 21, you need to anticipate your opponent's moves, jockey to stay in front of the attacker, use the contain button to pressure without diving in, and tackle when the time is right. It's crucial to switch players strategically and maintain a solid defensive shape.
Understanding the Basics
Defending effectively in FIFA 21 involves mastering several key aspects of gameplay. Firstly, it's essential to be patient and avoid lunging into tackles recklessly, as this can leave you vulnerable to skilled opponents. Positioning your defenders correctly is crucial, as it allows you to anticipate your opponent's moves and intercept passes more effectively. Utilizing the jockeying function (L2/LT button) to stay close to the attacker and contain their movements can also be highly effective in maintaining defensive shape.
Mastering Defensive Techniques
One of the most important defensive techniques in FIFA 21 is jockeying, which allows you to stay in front of the attacker and control the distance between you and the ball. By using jockeying effectively, you can force your opponent into making mistakes or committing to a certain direction, making it easier for you to tackle or intercept the ball. Timing your tackles is also crucial – waiting for the right moment to make a challenge can significantly increase your chances of winning the ball back without giving away fouls.
Anticipating Your Opponent
To defend effectively in FIFA 21, you need to anticipate your opponent's movements and adapt your defensive strategy accordingly. This involves reading the game, understanding your opponent's playstyle, and predicting their next move. By analyzing how your opponent attacks and reacts in different situations, you can position your defenders more intelligently, cut off passing lanes, and anticipate where the ball will go next.
Utilizing Team Tactics
In FIFA 21, team tactics play a crucial role in defensive success. Setting up your team's defensive style, line of engagement, and defensive width in accordance with your preferred playing style can significantly improve your defensive performance. Utilizing tactics such as high press, offside trap, or team contain can help you put pressure on your opponent, force turnovers, and regain possession more effectively. It's essential to experiment with different tactics and find the ones that work best for your team and preferred defensive approach.
Improving Your Manual Defending Skills
Manual defending skills are essential for success in FIFA 21, as relying too heavily on AI-controlled defenders can leave you exposed at the back. Learning to switch between players quickly and efficiently, using the right-stick switching for more precise player selection, and mastering tackle techniques such as standing tackles, slide tackles, and interceptions are all key aspects of manual defending. Practice these skills in skill games, drills, or offline matches to improve your defensive abilities gradually.
Staying Calm Under Pressure
One of the most important aspects of defending effectively in FIFA 21 is staying calm under pressure. It's common for players to panic when facing skilled attackers or intense offensive pressure, but maintaining composure and making calculated defensive decisions are crucial for success. By staying focused, anticipating your opponent's moves, and not rushing into tackles or challenges, you can defend more effectively and minimize the chances of conceding goals.