Best Methods to Stop Long Shot Specialists in eFootball

Few things are more frustrating in eFootball than conceding a goal from long shot specialists. Players like Roberto Carlos, Steven Gerrard, or Kevin De Bruyne can unleash rockets from outside the box, punishing even the tightest defenses.

If you want to climb divisions and keep clean sheets, you must know the best methods to stop long shot specialists in eFootball. This guide covers defensive tactics, player instructions, and in-game techniques to reduce the risk of conceding from range.

Table of Contents

1. Why Long Shots Are Dangerous

Long shots are effective because:

⚡ Unpredictable: They can come from anywhere outside the box.
🎯 High Power & Accuracy: Certain players have boosted stats for shooting from distance.
🧠 Psychological Pressure: Opponents use them to force defenders to step out, opening space.

2. Defensive Positioning

The first step in stopping long shot specialists is good positioning.

Keep defenders just outside the box to block attempts.
Avoid dragging center-backs too far out—use midfielders instead.
Always track the opponent’s playmaker who looks to set up the shot.

3. Use Defensive Midfielders (DMFs)

Having a strong defensive midfielder is essential.

Players like Casemiro, Vieira, or Kante can intercept passes and block shots.
Instruct your DMF to Stay Back While Attacking.
Use them to apply pressure before the opponent reaches shooting range.

4. Close Down Shooters Quickly

Don’t give long shot specialists time to set up.

Apply second man press (R1/RB) to pressure while controlling another defender.
Use jockey (L2/LT) to block angles.
Stay composed—don’t dive in recklessly.

5. Compact Defensive Shape

Keep your defensive shape tight and compact:

Reduce space between midfield and defense.
Set Compactness to medium-high in team tactics.
Force your opponent to pass sideways instead of forward.

6. Manual Blocking

Sometimes you need to manually block:

Position your defender between the ball and goal.
Use standing tackles sparingly—focus on intercepting.
Anticipate shot timing and move into the line of fire.

7. Best Formations to Counter Long Shots

Certain formations make it harder for opponents to shoot from distance.

4-2-3-1: Double pivot clogs shooting lanes.
4-3-3 (DMF included): Keeps a midfielder protecting the defense.
5-3-2: Wing-backs cover wide areas while midfield stays compact.

8. Player Traits That Help

Look for defenders and midfielders with:

Interception skill – cuts passes before the shot.
Fighting Spirit – ensures stamina to defend late in matches.
Blocking ability – improves manual shot-blocking.

9. Goalkeeper Positioning

Even the best defense can’t stop every shot—your goalkeeper matters.

Use keepers with long-range save ability (Čech, Buffon, Neuer).
Position manually if expecting a long shot.
Don’t rush out unnecessarily—it exposes you to chip shots.

10. Advanced Tactics

Mark Key Shooters: Use tight marking on long shot specialists.
Force Them Wide: Channel play away from central shooting areas.
Use Quick Pressure Rotations: Switch players rapidly to cover space.
Play Aggressively in Midfield: Stop attacks before they reach your defensive third.

11. Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Backing off too much and giving them space.
❌ Pulling defenders out of shape.
❌ Using only AI defending without manual input.
❌ Forgetting to mark second-line midfielders.

12. FAQs About Stopping Long Shots in eFootball

Q1: Can I stop all long shots completely?
👉 No, but you can reduce their effectiveness with good positioning and pressure.

Q2: What’s the easiest way to stop long shot specialists?
👉 Use a defensive midfielder to close them down before they shoot.

Q3: Do goalkeepers matter in defending long shots?
👉 Yes, some goalkeepers have traits that help against powerful distance shots.

Q4: Should I always press aggressively?
👉 No, balance is key—press but don’t leave gaps.

Conclusion

Learning the best methods to stop long shot specialists in eFootball is essential for Division 1 success. By using defensive midfielders, compact shapes, manual blocks, and quick pressure, you can minimize the threat of long-range strikes.

Remember: it’s not about completely eliminating long shots—it’s about reducing space, anticipating attempts, and forcing opponents into low-percentage plays. With discipline and practice, you’ll turn their favorite weapon into a wasted tactic.