There are commands and techniques that the basic tutorial doesn't teach. Master them and gain the competitive edge you're looking for.
Many eFootball players master the basics, but to reach the highest levels, you need to master advanced mechanics that offer more refined control. Here are the techniques that pro players use.
1. The Super Cancel (R1 + R2 / RB + RT)
What it does: Instantly cancels any action you have commanded (a shot, a pass, or a movement).
Why it's essential: It allows for total control. Started charging a shot and saw it would be blocked? Super Cancel. It gives you the freedom to change your mind at the last millisecond.
Historical note: Until version 4.x, a bug allowed a defender to perform a 'ghost tackle' in the air without an animation when using super cancel during a shot or pass, a feature heavily exploited by pro players.
2. Phenomenal Passing and Shooting
How to execute: Quickly tap the sprint button (R2/RT) immediately before pressing the pass or shoot button.
What it does: Results in much stronger and more accurate passes and shots. Be aware: this action takes longer to perform and leaves the player vulnerable during the wind-up.
3. Stunning Touch
How to execute: Press the sprint button twice in quick succession. If you prefer, you can change this setting to activate with a single tap in the settings menu.
What it does: The player takes a longer touch on the ball, pushing it ahead to gain space. This action is ideal for exploiting open fields in counter-attacks and, for players with the skill, this is how Explosive Acceleration is activated.
4. The Essential Dribble: Double Touch
How to execute: To perform the double touch, first move the right stick in the direction of the dribble and hold it until the end of the animation. Then, use the left stick to point in the direction you want to exit.
Why it's essential: It's the fastest and most effective dribble in the game to unbalance a defender in a one-on-one situation. Mastering the Double Touch is the first step to becoming a dangerous offensive player.
Fun fact: There is a Super Double Touch: to activate it, the player needs the Elastico, Double Touch, and Sole Control skills. When combined, they unlock a special animation, popularly known as the 'Neymar dribble'.
5. The "New" Dribble: 360° Spin
How to execute: The 360° spin is the opposite of the double touch. To perform it, point the right stick in the direction of your run, or where your player is facing, and hold it until the animation finishes. Then, use the left stick to indicate the direction you want to exit the dribble.
New? Before version 5.x, the 360° spin wasn't very useful. However, Konami surprised us by improving it, elevating it to a level equal to, if not superior to, the double touch. It is perfect for creating shooting space, and impressively, even players without the special 360° Spin skill can execute it very effectively, making it a powerful addition to your offensive arsenal.
6. Intelligent Defending: Match Up (L2 / LT)
What it does: Instead of sprinting to apply pressure, holding L2/LT activates the "Match Up" stance. The defender turns sideways, gets lower, and focuses on the player with the ball.
Why it's the best way to defend: This allows your player to contain the attacker, mirror their movements, and position themselves to block passes and shots. It's a patient and intelligent way to defend.