FIFA 18 Penalty Shootout can be the ultimate test of skill and composure. Whether you’re facing off against friends or climbing the competitive ladder online, a well-executed penalty strategy can make all the difference. Here are 10 proven tips to help you dominate penalty shootouts in FIFA 18.
FIFA 18 Penalty Shootout
Understand the Penalty Mechanics
FIFA 18’s penalty system revolves around precision and timing. When taking a penalty, use the left stick to aim your shot and the circle or B button to determine the power. Hold the power button too long, and you’ll risk sending the ball over the bar. Mastering this balance is crucial for consistent results.
Additionally, keep an eye on the composure bar. A calm and steady approach will reduce the likelihood of errors. Practicing in training mode can help you refine your timing and aiming.
1. Perfect Your Aim
Accuracy is the cornerstone of a successful penalty. Use the left stick to direct your shot into the corners of the goal. Be gentle with the stick movements to avoid over-aiming, which can result in a miss. Remember, aiming slightly away from the exact corner is safer as it reduces the chance of hitting the post or missing the target.
Practice aiming in the top corners or low sides during penalty drills to improve your muscle memory and consistency.
2. Choose the Right Player
Selecting a player with high penalty and composure stats is essential. Players like Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi are ideal due to their superior attributes. Before the shootout, review your team’s lineup and prioritize players who excel in penalties and finishing.
A good penalty taker can make the difference between a saved attempt and a goal, so always consider stats when making your choice.
3. Master the Power Gauge
The power gauge is critical for achieving the perfect balance between precision and force. For a controlled shot, aim for around two bars on the power meter. Overcharging the shot can lead to wild misses while underpowering can make the shot too easy for the goalkeeper to save.
Consistently practicing the power gauge in training mode will help you find the sweet spot for each type of shot.
4. Use Mind Games Against the Opponent
Psychology plays a massive role in penalty shootouts. When playing against another human, consider using fake runs or sudden changes in your aiming direction to throw off their timing. Hesitation or feints can make your opponent second-guess their dive, giving you an edge.
Conversely, when defending, try to read your opponent’s body language or patterns to anticipate their shot direction.
5. Execute Panenka Penalties with Confidence
The Panenka is a high-risk, high-reward penalty style. You can lightly tap the shoot button to chip the ball down the middle as the goalkeeper dives to one side. This requires impeccable timing and composure but can be a game-changer when used sparingly.
Avoid overusing this technique, as experienced players might anticipate it.
6. Pay Attention to Goalkeeper Movement
When taking a penalty, watch the goalkeeper’s initial movement. Some players try to guess and commit early to a dive direction. Exploit this by aiming in the opposite direction or adjusting your shot as you approach the ball.
As a goalkeeper, don’t reveal your dive direction too soon. Staying still or moving at the last moment can increase your chances of saving the shot.
7. Learn Advanced Shot Techniques
FIFA 18 allows players to execute advanced shots like finesse or driven penalties. Use the R1/RB button with the shoot button for a finesse penalty, which curves the ball. Alternatively, use L1/LB with the shoot button for a driven shot that stays low.
Experiment with these techniques in training to expand your arsenal and surprise your opponents during matches.
8. Practice in Training Mode
Repetition is the key to mastering penalties. Spend time in FIFA 18’s training mode to practice various scenarios, including high-pressure shootouts and advanced shot techniques. Familiarize yourself with your team’s top penalty takers and experiment with different power levels and shot placements.
Regular practice will build confidence and improve your performance during critical moments.
9. Stay Calm Under Pressure
Penalty shootouts are as much a mental game as they are a physical challenge. Focus on your technique and block out distractions to maintain composure. Visualize your shot’s trajectory and execute it with confidence.
Remember, even if you miss, staying composed and prepared for the next opportunity is vital. A clear mind often leads to better decisions.