EA Sports FC 24
EA Sports FC 24

Set Pieces: Corner Kicks (Attacking & Defending)

Master EA Sports FC 24 corner kicks. Learn attacking strategies for scoring and defensive tactics to prevent goals from corners.

2.8. Set Pieces: Corner Kicks (Attacking & Defending)

Dominate set-piece situations with our comprehensive guide to corner kicks in EA Sports FC 24. Learn attacking strategies to score and defensive tactics to prevent goals from corners.

Corner kicks are a critical phase of play in EA Sports FC 24, offering sificant scoring opportunities if executed well, and posing a defensive challenge. Mastering both attacking and defending corners can swing the momentum of a match. This guide will break down the mechanics and strategies for both scenarios.

Attacking Corner Kicks

When you win a corner, you have several options to try and score:

  • Aiming: Use the left analog stick to position the aiming reticle. Aiming towards the penalty spot, the six-yard box, or the far post are common strategies. The type of cross you choose will influence the best aiming point.
  • Power: Hold the shoot button (O/B) to build power. Generally, 2-3 bars of power are sufficient for most crosses, but adjust based on distance and desired trajectory.
  • Spin/Curve:
  • In-Swinger (Hold L1/LB): The ball curves towards the goal. This is effective for aiming directly at the goal or for players attacking the near post.
  • Out-Swinger (Hold R1/RB): The ball curves away from the goal. Useful for targeting the far post or players making runs into space.
  • Top Spin (Hold L2/LT): Causes the ball to dip sharply. Can be used to get under the crossbar or over a high defensive line.
  • Player Instructions for Corners:
  • Go To Near Post/Far Post: Instruct specific players to make runs to these areas.
  • Get Into Box For Cross: Ensure your midfielders and attackers are in the box.
  • Target Man: Use a strong striker to hold up play and win headers.
  • Types of Crosses:
  • Standard Cross: A balanced cross.
  • Whipped Cross (Hold L1/LB + Shoot): A fast, curling cross that can be difficult for keepers to handle.
  • Driven Cross (Hold R1/RB + Shoot): A powerful, flat cross that travels quickly.
  • Header/Volley Tactics:
  • Timed Finishing: Press the shoot button again just as the ball makes contact with the player's head or foot for a power boost.
  • Finesse Shot: Can be effective for volleys if the ball is at the right height.
  • Calling Teammates: Press L1/LB multiple times to call more players into the box, creating more attacking options.

Defending Corner Kicks

Preventing goals from corners requires organization and quick reactions:

  • Player Selection:
  • Manual Goalkeeper Control: Take control of your goalkeeper to position them effectively, either on the line or to come out and claim the cross.
  • Defensive Players: Select a tall defender or defensive midfielder to mark the most dangerous opposition players in the box.
  • Zoning: Ass players to specific zones in the box (near post, far post, penalty spot) to cover all potential threats.
  • Clearing the Ball:
  • Clearance (O/B): Use a simple clearance to get the ball out of danger.
  • Header (X/A): Aim to head the ball away, ideally towards a teammate or out for a throw-in.
  • Volley Clearance: If the ball is high, a volley can be a powerful way to clear it.
  • Tactical Approaches:
  • Press After Possession Loss: Can sometimes trigger players to track back and defend the corner.
  • Stay Back While Attacking: Ensure at least one or two players remain back to counter-attack if the corner is cleared.
  • Marking:
  • Mark Tighter: Instruct your defenders to stick closely to their assed attackers.
  • Cut Passing Lanes: Can help intercept short corner passes.

Tips for Mastering Corners

  • Practice in Training Arena: Use the Set Piece practice mode to experiment with different corner routines and defensive setups.
  • Observe Opponent's Tactics: Pay attention to where your opponent aims their corners and which players they target.
  • Vary Your Attacking Crosses: Don't always use the same type of cross or aim for the same spot. Mix it up to keep the defense guessing.
  • Be Patient When Defending: Don't rush out with your keeper unnecessarily. Wait for the ball to be delivered before making a decision.
  • Utilize Short Corners: Sometimes, a short corner can be used to retain possession or create a different attacking angle.

By dedicating time to understanding and practicing both attacking and defending corner kicks, you can sificantly improve your ability to score from and prevent goals during these crucial set-piece situations in EA Sports FC 24.