FIFA 12 has introduced significant changes to the style of play compared to previous versions, so all players will have a lot to learn before they are effective. From attack to defense, the changes made affect the speed of the game and the control the player has over his team. Before attempting to face online opponents, take the time to play single-player games to learn the new mechanics.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Playing Attack
Step 1. Complete the tutorial
FIFA 12 introduces big changes from previous versions, so even if you've played FIFA before, you should probably take some time for the tutorial. This will allow you to familiarize yourself with the mechanics of passing, dribbling and shooting.
Step 2. Always stop shooting
One of the main mistakes new players make is keeping the shutter button pressed all the time. This will tire your players and, most importantly, prevent you from better control of the ball. Save shots for when you really need them, like when you have an open field and can get to goal.
Step 3. Switch back if necessary
In football, possession matters a lot, and it's always useful to pass the ball back when you can't move forward because you don't have numerical superiority. If the defense closes on the player in possession of the ball, move back to one of the teammates in tow to try a new approach.
Step 4. Use the precision dribble button to your advantage
You'll automatically switch to precision mode when a defender approaches, but you can do it manually whenever you want. You will have more options to fake your opponent.
Step 5. Take advantage of your mates
You can ask a mate to join at any time. A timed pass to a teammate who has missed the mark can allow you to create scoring chances.
Step 6. Choose the formation
Changing your lineup can make the difference between winning and losing. For attacking, many players recommend 4-1-2-1-2 or 4-4-1-1 formations.
Make sure you get the players to play in their optimal role so that their strengths are highlighted
Step 7. Crosses for the attacker
One of the best ways to score is to cross the ball from the back to a player in the center of the area. This way you can surprise the defenders.
Step 8. Use your stars
Some players on your team are simply better than others. Pay attention to the statistics and try to give the ball as much as possible to your stars. You will be more likely to shoot on goal, pass successfully and overtake opponents if the ball is in the right feet.
Part 2 of 3: Playing Defense
Step 1. Try not to move too much
Defense has changed a lot in FIFA 12, and you will be penalized if you are too aggressive with your tackles. Use the new defensive strategy to your advantage by approaching and contesting the ball instead of slipping.
At the same time, don't be too patient. Not putting enough pressure on your opponents will allow them to advance too easily, putting you in trouble
Step 2. Call a double
If you can dedicate another player to defense on the ball without freeing up space for the opponents, call a double to press the ball carrier. You can use this tactic to close passing lines or force the attacker to lose possession.
Be careful when using this tactic, as you will often free an opponent. Make sure you know where your opponents are on the pitch and close all passing lines
Step 3. Use the formations to your advantage
One of the most useful defensive formations in the game is 5-3-2, because it gives your defenders great coverage. Another good choice is 5-2-2-1, which gives you plenty of defenders and midfielders.
Step 4. Anticipate the steps
In FIFA 12, the key to successful defense is understanding where the opponent will pass the ball and intercepting it. It will be difficult at first, but after some time you will be able to understand in which direction an opponent will pass the ball based on his direction and speed.
Part 3 of 3: Winning Online
Step 1. Use the manual controls
While the built-in assist controls are great for learning to play, they make you lose a lot of control. Switch to manual controls to enable full control over all your players. This allows you to have better and more dynamic ball control, as well as a more effective defense.
Step 2. Do offline training first
Even if you will be tempted, try to avoid looking for opponents online right away. There are a lot of good players, and if you don't practice a little you will be destroyed. Play an offline season to get used to the controls, and use Practice Mode to try formations, corners and penalties.
Practice mode is also a great way to practice dribbling
Step 3. Choose a good team
When you start playing online, you will need all the help you can get. Use one of the strongest teams until you are used to playing against human opponents.
- Barcelona, Manchester United, AC Milan and Real Madrid.
- Once you get better at it, avoid using these teams, as they are considered too strong by other players.
Step 4. Focus on defense first
During your first online matches, focus on defending yourself from attacks and avoiding conceding goals. You can think about attack later, but remember that a good defense wins games.
Step 5. Take smart steps
Passes are incredibly important in online matches, because defenses will be better than computer-controlled ones.
Step 6. Vary your tactics
Don't always get the ball to the same side of the court. Avoid always passing the ball to the same player in every action. Pretend to do one thing, then do another. One of the secrets of winning in an online game is not being predictable.
This also applies to shots. Don't always pull in the same way or with the same force. Vary the shots so as not to give reference points to the defender. Then change the type of shot with the rear buttons of the controller. Use the different throws in the appropriate situations
Step 7. Don't waste shots
A scoring opportunity can be a rare opportunity in FIFA, so you need to make sure you make the most of it. You will need to consider a few factors before rolling:
- Space - a contested roll will rarely succeed. Make sure there is free space in front of your player.
- Distance - Try to make sure you are inside the area before shooting. Shooting from the midfield line will not allow you to score many goals.
- Angle - If you are too far away from the goal, your shooting angle will be too tight. It is better to cross for one of the teammates.
Step 8. Play with your players' strengths If you have a particularly tall striker, do a lot of crosses
If you have a fast forward who knows how to dribble, try to get past your opponents with the ball.
Step 9. Play according to your lineup
Try to avoid moving players all over the field. Let the formation do the work for you, and pass control to the best player for your situation.
Step 10. Get to know the teams
Spend time studying the strengths and weaknesses of all the teams that your opponents can use. Knowing which players are the best can help you set up your defense and control them.
Step 11. Play an offline game every day before playing online
If you really care about your rank in FIFA, warming up offline will help you get carried away without risking your online score. Play a quick game to warm up, then go online to find a real opponent.
