In FIFA 21, defending corners effectively requires manually controlling a player near the incoming cross, positioning them correctly and using the player to clear the ball. Additionally, utilizing taller players to mark opponents and employing zonal marking tactics can also help prevent conceding goals from corners.
Positioning:
One of the key aspects in defending corners in FIFA 21 is to ensure your players are well-positioned inside the penalty area. As the opposition prepares to take a corner, use the right analog stick to switch to a player who is close to the incoming cross. Try to position this player in front of the opponent's attackers to block their path to the ball. Anticipate where the ball might be played and position your defenders accordingly to win the aerial duels against the opponents.
Player Selection:
Choosing the right player to defend the corner is crucial in FIFA 21. Look for players with high defensive attributes, especially in heading accuracy, jumping, and strength. Center-backs and taller midfielders are usually good options to have in the box during defending corners. Prioritize selecting players who are strong in the air to challenge for headers against the opponent's attackers. Make sure to manually control your selected player to have better control over their movements and positioning.
Zonal Marking vs. Man-to-Man:
Deciding between zonal marking and man-to-man marking can have a significant impact on how you defend corners in FIFA 21. Zonal marking involves assigning each defender to a specific zone inside the penalty area, while man-to-man marking requires players to mark specific opponents. Experiment with both marking systems to see which works best for your playing style. Zonal marking can help cover dangerous areas, while man-to-man marking can ensure tight coverage on key threats inside the box.
Covering Short and Far Post:
It is essential to cover both the short and far posts when defending corners in FIFA 21. Place a defender at the near post to clear away any short crosses that might come in. Meanwhile, have another player positioned at the far post to deal with any balls played deep into the box. By having players covering both posts, you can reduce the chances of your opponent finding space to score from a corner kick.
Defensive Tactics:
Utilizing defensive tactics can also aid in defending corners effectively in FIFA 21. Adjust your custom tactics to set your team to a more defensive mindset when defending set-pieces. Lowering the team's width and depth can help your players defend tighter inside the box and reduce the space for the opposition to exploit. Additionally, using the offside trap tactic during corners can help catch opponents off guard and disrupt their attacking rhythm.
Quick Reactions and Clearances:
Quick reactions and timely clearances are crucial when defending corners in FIFA 21. Be prepared to react swiftly to any loose balls inside the box and clear them away to safety. Use the shoot button to perform powerful headers or volleys to get the ball out of danger. Anticipate where the ball might drop after a header and position your defenders to make crucial clearances. Avoid panicking under pressure and try to stay composed when dealing with corners.
Practice and Analysis:
Lastly, practicing defending corners and analyzing your gameplay can significantly improve your corner defending skills in FIFA 21. Spend time in skill games or set-piece practice modes to work on your defensive positioning and timing when challenging for headers. Watch replays of your matches to identify areas where you can improve your corner defending tactics. By consistently practicing and analyzing your gameplay, you can refine your skills and become more effective at defending corners in FIFA 21.