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Defending in eFootball is more than just chasing the ball—it’s about controlling space, timing, and shape. One of the most powerful defensive tools is the second man press, where an AI-controlled teammate applies pressure while you position manually.

However, many players misuse it, leading to broken formations, wasted stamina, and defensive gaps. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use second man press without losing shape in eFootball, ensuring you defend smartly while maintaining structure.

What Is Second Man Press?

The second man press (often executed with R1/RB button) sends a nearby teammate to pressure the ball carrier while you control another defender.

Benefits:

• Forces opponents to make quick decisions.
• Creates 2v1 defensive situations.
• Allows you to cut passing lanes manually.

Risks if Misused:

• Overcommits defenders out of position.
• Leaves gaps for through balls.
• Drains stamina unnecessarily.

The Golden Rules of Using Second Man Press

1. Don’t Spam It

Constant pressing breaks your shape. Use it selectively—mainly in midfield or near the wings.

2. Pair With Manual Positioning

While the AI presses, you should manually cover passing lanes or mark dangerous attackers.

3. Stamina Awareness

Overusing second man press drains stamina fast. Save it for crucial moments, not every possession.

4. Know Your Defensive Line

• High line = use sparingly, since gaps open easily.
• Deep block = safer, as you have extra coverage behind.

Situations Where Second Man Press Works Best

1. Midfield Traps

• Press with one CM while manually blocking passing options.

2. Wing Defense

• Use second man press to close wingers, then double team to win the ball.

3. Slow Build-Up Opponents

• Disrupt rhythm by forcing them into quick passes.

4. Against Dribblers

• Forcing 2v1 situations makes skill-spamming attackers easier to stop.

Situations Where You Should Avoid It

1. Against Quick Counter Players

• Overcommitting leaves your defense exposed.

2. Near Your Own Box

• Mis-timed presses in the penalty area lead to easy cutbacks.

3. When Using Aggressive Tactics

• If your team is already pressing, second man press adds unnecessary risk.

Best Tactics to Support Second Man Press

• Compactness: High (7–9) → Keeps defenders closer together.
• Defensive Line: Moderate (4–6) → Prevents huge gaps.
• Pressing Style: Conservative → Ensures AI doesn’t rush recklessly.
• Defensive Instructions: Anchor a DMF in front of CBs to cover gaps.

Training & Player Profiles That Help

• High Stamina Midfielders: Kante, Goretzka, Barella.
• Ball-Winning Defenders: Vidić, Ferdinand, Van Dijk.
• DMF with Intercepting Skills: Vieira, Busquets.

These players can press without collapsing your defensive structure.

Advanced Pro Tips

1. Fake Pressing: Call second man press to make opponents panic, then release early.
2. Baiting Opponents: Use it to lure attackers wide before winning the ball.
3. Layered Defending: While one presses, another marks passing lanes—creating defensive triangles.
4. Mix It Up: Don’t always send the same player; rotate between CM, DMF, and wide players.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Chasing the Ball: Always keep one eye on dangerous runners.
• Pressing Too Long: Short bursts are better than extended pressure.
• Overusing With Low-Stamina Players: Leads to late-game defensive collapse.
• Ignoring Manual Input: Second man press is only effective if you control space wisely.

Conclusion

Learning how to use second man press without losing shape in eFootball is about discipline and timing. It’s a tool, not a constant tactic. By using it sparingly, combining it with manual positioning, and structuring your tactics properly, you’ll frustrate opponents while keeping your defense compact.

The best defenders aren’t the ones who chase the ball—they’re the ones who control the game by anticipating and forcing mistakes. Master this, and your win rate will rise significantly.