Learning how to FIFA can feel overwhelming at first. The game offers dozens of controls, multiple game modes, and strategies that separate casual players from serious competitors. But here’s the good news: every FIFA pro started exactly where you are now.
This guide breaks down everything beginners need to know. Players will learn the basic controls, offensive and defensive strategies, game mode options, and practical tips for rapid improvement. Whether someone just picked up a controller or wants to sharpen their skills, this article provides the foundation for success on the virtual pitch.
Key Takeaways
- Learning how to FIFA starts with mastering basic controls like passing, shooting, and sprinting in the practice arena before jumping into real matches.
- Build patient offensive plays by using possession-based passing rather than rushing attacks, which often leads to turnovers.
- Use jockeying (LT/L2) instead of diving in with tackles to maintain defensive positioning and wait for opponent mistakes.
- Beginners should start with Kick Off or Career Mode to develop skills before entering competitive online modes like Ultimate Team.
- Accelerate improvement by completing Skill Games, watching top players stream, and reviewing your own match footage to identify weaknesses.
- Stick with one team to learn its strengths and player chemistry, which leads to better in-game decision-making.
Understanding The Basic Controls
FIFA uses a control scheme that rewards practice and muscle memory. New players should start by learning these essential inputs before attempting advanced moves.
Movement and Passing
The left stick controls player movement. Short passes use the A button (Xbox) or X button (PlayStation). Through balls, which send the ball ahead of a teammate, use Y (Xbox) or Triangle (PlayStation). These two pass types form the backbone of any attack.
Shooting Basics
The B button (Xbox) or Circle (PlayStation) shoots the ball. Hold the button longer for more power. A key skill in FIFA involves timing, releasing the shot button when the power bar reaches the desired level determines accuracy. Finesse shots, executed by holding RB/R1 while shooting, curl the ball toward the far post and work well from inside the box.
Sprinting and Skill Moves
Holding RT (Xbox) or R2 (PlayStation) makes players sprint. Sprinting drains stamina, so use it strategically. The right stick performs skill moves when players have possession. Simple moves like the ball roll (hold the right stick left or right) help beginners beat defenders without memorizing complex inputs.
Spend time in the practice arena before jumping into matches. This space lets players experiment with controls without pressure.
Mastering Offense And Scoring Goals
Scoring goals in FIFA requires patience and awareness. Rushing attacks leads to lost possession and counterattacks.
Build-Up Play
Successful offense starts with possession. Players should pass the ball between teammates to move it up the field gradually. Look for open teammates rather than forcing risky passes. The radar in the corner of the screen shows teammate positions and helps identify passing options.
Creating Space
Defenders in FIFA react to ball movement. One effective technique involves passing to a wide player, then cutting inside toward goal. This movement pulls defenders out of position and opens shooting lanes. Using the LB/L1 button after passing triggers a run from the passer, creating more options.
Finishing Chances
Once inside the penalty area, players have several shooting options. Low driven shots (LB+RB+shoot or L1+R2+shoot) stay on the ground and beat goalkeepers who dive early. Chip shots (LB/L1+shoot) loft the ball over an advancing keeper. Choosing the right shot type based on the goalkeeper’s position separates average players from skilled scorers.
Practice finishing from different angles and distances. Understanding how to FIFA effectively means knowing which shot works best in each situation.
Defensive Strategies That Work
Defense wins championships, this applies to FIFA as much as real football. Poor defending leads to frustration and losses.
Jockeying Instead of Diving In
New players often rush toward the ball carrier and press tackle repeatedly. This approach fails against skilled opponents. Instead, hold LT (Xbox) or L2 (PlayStation) to jockey. Jockeying keeps the defender balanced and positioned between the attacker and goal. Wait for the opponent to make a mistake before committing to a tackle.
Cutting Passing Lanes
Smart defenders anticipate passes rather than chasing the ball. Position controlled players between opponents to intercept passes. This proactive approach stops attacks before they become dangerous.
Using Secondary Press
Holding RB (Xbox) or R1 (PlayStation) sends a nearby AI teammate to pressure the ball carrier. This lets players control one defender while another applies pressure. Use this feature carefully, it can leave gaps if the pressing player gets beaten.
Switching Players
The LB button or right stick switches between defenders. Quick, accurate switching helps players stay between attackers and their goal. Practice switching to stay comfortable during fast-paced attacks.
Choosing The Right Game Mode For You
FIFA offers several game modes, each providing different experiences. Beginners should explore options before committing to one.
Kick Off
This mode lets players jump into quick matches against AI or friends. It requires no setup and works well for learning how to FIFA without stakes. Adjust difficulty settings to match current skill level.
Career Mode
Career Mode puts players in charge of a club or individual player. Manager Career involves transfers, tactics, and long-term team building. Player Career follows one athlete’s journey from prospect to legend. Both options offer deep, single-player experiences.
Ultimate Team
FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) remains the game’s most popular mode. Players build squads by earning or purchasing player cards. Online matches test skills against opponents worldwide. This mode rewards time investment but can feel competitive even at lower levels.
Pro Clubs
Pro Clubs lets groups of friends control individual players on the same team. Each person handles one position during matches. This cooperative experience appeals to players who enjoy teamwork.
Beginners often find success starting with Kick Off or Career Mode before trying competitive online modes.
Tips For Improving Your Skills Quickly
Improvement in FIFA comes from focused practice and smart habits. These tips accelerate the learning process.
Use the Skill Games
FIFA includes training exercises that teach specific mechanics. Completing these drills builds muscle memory for passing, shooting, and defending. Players earn rewards while learning, a productive use of practice time.
Watch and Learn
Top FIFA players stream matches on Twitch and YouTube. Watching skilled players reveals tactics and techniques that tutorials miss. Pay attention to their positioning, passing patterns, and defensive choices.
Stick With One Team
Switching teams constantly prevents players from learning how their squad performs. Choose one team and learn its strengths. Familiarity with player statistics, formations, and chemistry leads to better decision-making during matches.
Review Your Matches
FIFA saves recent match footage. Reviewing goals conceded shows defensive weaknesses. Watching missed chances reveals shooting habits that need adjustment. This self-analysis identifies specific areas for improvement.
Stay Patient
Losing streaks happen to everyone. Frustration leads to rushed plays and poor decisions. Take breaks when needed. Consistent, focused practice beats marathon gaming sessions that end in exhaustion.
Learning how to FIFA takes time, but dedicated players see real improvement within weeks.
