In high-level eFootball gameplay, precision and unpredictability are what separate casual players from top-tier competitors. One of the most underrated yet powerful tools for achieving this is the Player Lock function. Learning how to use player lock for smarter attacks in eFootball can completely change the way you build plays, break defensive lines, and score goals.

This in-depth guide will cover everything from what player lock is, how to activate it, to advanced strategies for using it to outsmart your opponents.

What Is Player Lock in eFootball?

Player Lock is a tactical feature that lets you switch control from the ball carrier to another player off the ball. Instead of always controlling the man with the ball, you can reposition another attacker to exploit space, run behind defenders, or pull markers away—while the AI temporarily handles the ball carrier.

It’s a feature designed for creative players who want more control over off-the-ball movement.

Why Player Lock Is So Effective

1. Creates Unpredictability: Opponents expect you to only control the ball carrier. Switching control breaks that pattern.
2. Exploits Defensive Gaps: Move your striker into space before triggering a through ball.
3. Improves Build-Up Play: Direct midfielders into smarter positions without losing attacking flow.
4. Enhances Counterattacks: While the AI holds the ball, you can already set your forward into a run.
5. Adds Professional Flair: Many esports-level players use player lock for devastating attacks.

How to Activate Player Lock in eFootball

By default, player lock is performed with:

• PlayStation: L3 + Right Stick (press and hold left stick button while moving).
• Xbox: LS + Right Stick.
• Mobile: Hold and flick the screen input (customizable in settings).

You can adjust these controls in Game Settings → Button Configuration.

Step-by-Step: Using Player Lock

1. Ball Possession: Start with your player in control of the ball.
2. Activate Player Lock: Press the lock command.
3. Switch to New Player: Use the right stick to select the off-ball player you want to control.
4. Reposition: Move your new player into space (forward runs, wide runs, or decoy movements).
5. Pass or Through Ball: Use your teammates to release the ball into the path of your repositioned runner.

Situations Where Player Lock Shines

1. Breaking the Offside Trap

• Lock onto your striker.
• Time the run behind the defenders.
• Trigger a through ball at the perfect moment.

2. Creating Wing Overloads

• Lock onto your winger.
• Pull the fullback wide.
• Free up space for overlapping fullbacks or inverted runs.

3. Counterattack Mastery

• Lock onto a forward while AI holds midfield possession.
• Sprint your striker into open space before launching the pass.

4. False Nine Movements

• Lock onto a CF and drop deeper.
• Pull the CB out of position.
• Exploit the gap with another attacker.

5. Decoy Runs

• Lock onto a winger.
• Run wide or diagonally.
• Distract defenders while your midfielder takes a shot.

Best Formations for Player Lock Attacks

• 4-3-3: Perfect for wide runs and striker movements.
• 4-2-3-1: Exploits CAM and striker link-up.
• 3-5-2: Allows creative movements from strikers and wide midfielders.
• 4-4-2 Diamond: CAM can be repositioned to unlock compact defenses.

Best Player Types for Player Lock

1. Fast Strikers: Mbappé, Ronaldo, Torres → Great for running in behind.
2. Creative Midfielders: Kaka, Modrić, De Bruyne → Perfect for setting up play after off-ball movements.
3. Wingers: Salah, Neymar, Sané → Pull defenders wide and stretch formations.
4. Fullbacks: Marcelo, Cafu, Hakimi → Ideal for overlapping runs when locked.

Advantages of Player Lock Over Manual Runs

• Manual Runs: Trigger teammates’ movements but less precise.
• Player Lock: Gives you direct control of the run, ensuring exact positioning.

Common Mistakes With Player Lock

1. Forgetting the Ball Carrier: Don’t leave the AI with the ball too long or risk turnovers.
2. Overusing: Use strategically, not every attack.
3. Bad Timing: Locking too early can put your striker offside.
4. Predictable Runs: Mix your movements to keep opponents guessing.

Advanced Tips for Mastering Player Lock

1. Fake Movements: Start a run in one direction, then cut back.
2. Layered Attacks: Lock one attacker deep, free another forward.
3. Switch Play: Use lock to set up wide players before long passes.
4. Combination Runs: Lock onto winger → Drag defense wide → CAM attacks the gap.
5. Late Arrivals: Lock onto a CMF → Sneak into the box unmarked.

Training Drills for Player Lock

1. Free Training Mode: Practice locking and running into space repeatedly.
2. AI Matches: Low-risk environment to test new patterns.
3. Replay Analysis: Rewatch where you could have locked onto different players.

Player Lock in Esports Matches

Pro players often use player lock to:

• Outwit compact defensive blocks.
• Create scoring opportunities without relying solely on AI.
• Execute pre-planned attacking patterns.

In tournaments, a well-timed lock run is often the difference between elite play and average play.

Case Study: Player Lock Attack Example

• You’re in a 4-3-3.
• Ball with your CMF.
• Lock onto RW → sprint diagonally behind LB.
• CMF passes wide.
• RW now in space → cross to CF → goal.

This simple lock movement turned a stagnant buildup into a direct scoring chance.

Is Player Lock Worth Mastering?

Yes. While it has a learning curve, mastering how to use player lock for smarter attacks in eFootball adds a new dimension to your gameplay. It allows:

• More creative attacks.
• Greater control over off-ball runs.
• A professional edge in competitive play.

Conclusion

Learning how to use player lock for smarter attacks in eFootball separates good players from great ones. By mastering this feature, you unlock smarter off-the-ball control, better movement patterns, and unpredictable attacking options.

It’s not just about controlling the ball anymore—it’s about controlling the flow of your entire attack. With practice, player lock can become your secret weapon in both Division Matches and esports competitions.