Controlling the ball effectively is one of the most important skills you can master in Konamiās football simulation. Whether youāre playing online ranked matches or against AI, the ability to improve your first touch in eFootball can determine how much possession you retain and how quickly you transition into attack. Many beginners overlook this fundamental skill, but in reality, a poor first touch often leads to losing possession, wasted chances, and costly goals conceded.
This guide will cover the mechanics of first touch in eFootball, why itās crucial, common mistakes players make, and practical strategies you can use to become more confident on the ball.
Why First Touch Matters in eFootball
In real football, players like Iniesta, Zidane, and Xavi were admired for their incredible first touches. In eFootball, the same principle applies: the better your control, the smoother your gameplay.
Hereās why it matters:
- Maintains Possession: Good control prevents defenders from stealing the ball.
- Enables Quick Attacks: A clean touch sets up dribbles, passes, or shots.
- Reduces Pressure: Controlling the ball well makes it harder for opponents to press you.
- Improves Passing Flow: A smoother touch keeps build-up play fast and effective.
Common Beginner Mistakes with First Touch
- Sprinting Immediately: Holding sprint while receiving the ball often leads to heavy, uncontrollable touches.
- Ignoring Player Stats: Using low ball control players in tight areas leads to frequent turnovers.
- Facing the Wrong Way: Receiving the ball without adjusting body orientation makes it harder to pass or dribble.
- Relying on One Foot: Not recognizing dominant foot tendencies of certain players.
Mechanics of First Touch in eFootball
Understanding how the game engine interprets first touches is vital. eFootball calculates your control based on:
- Ball Control stat of the player.
- Balance and Body Control attributes.
- Opponentās defensive pressure.
- Sprint input at the moment of reception.
The better the playerās control stats and your timing, the smoother the first touch.
How to Improve Your First Touch in eFootball
1. Use the Left Stick Wisely
When receiving the ball, gently nudge the left stick in the intended direction rather than holding it fully. This gives your player more natural control.
2. Avoid Sprinting on Reception
Do not hold R1/R2 (depending on platform) when the ball arrives. Instead, receive first, then accelerate once control is established.
3. Train with High Ball Control Players
Practice with players like Messi, ModriÄ, or Pedri. Their stats make mistakes less likely, helping you understand correct timing.
4. Shield the Ball (Use L2/LT)
If defenders are close, use the shield button as the ball arrives to protect it. This simulates a controlled first touch under pressure.
5. Anticipate Opponent Pressure
Read the defenderās approach. If they press aggressively, control the ball sideways instead of forward.
6. Use Short Passing in Tight Spaces
A small first touch often works best with quick, short passes to nearby teammates.
Advanced Tips for Mastering First Touch
- Directional First Touch: Push the stick toward open space before the ball arrives. This helps bypass pressing defenders.
- Skill Moves After First Touch: Combine control with feints or body moves to surprise your opponent.
- First Touch Shooting: Learn when to set up a shot immediately after a controlled first touch.
- One-Touch Passing vs. Controlled Touch: Recognize situations when you should skip control and play a first-time pass instead.
Drills to Practice First Touch in eFootball
Drill 1: Training Mode Control
- Set AI difficulty low.
- Practice receiving passes without sprinting.
- Focus on timing and directional control.
Drill 2: Tight Space Passing
- In local training, use short passes between midfielders.
- Try receiving while shielding from an AI defender.
Drill 3: First Touch into Shot
- Practice receiving crosses or through balls.
- Focus on cushioning the first touch into space for a shot.
Best Players for Perfect First Touch in eFootball
If you want to invest in players with excellent ball control for smoother touches, target:
- Lionel Messi (Legendary/Epic) ā Incredible ball control & dribbling.
- AndrĆ©s Iniesta (Epic/Legendary) ā Ultimate midfield touch master.
- Luka ModriÄ (Legendary) ā Reliable in midfield under pressure.
- Pedri (Modern Star) ā Agile and technical young talent.
How First Touch Affects Different Playstyles
- Possession Play: First touch is critical for keeping passing chains alive.
- Quick Counter: Smooth control helps accelerate transitions.
- Long Ball Play: Strikers need good first touch to control aerial passes.
- Out Wide: Wingers benefit from directional touches that set up dribbles.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to improve your first touch in eFootball is one of the most important steps toward becoming a consistent player. Beginners often focus only on sprinting, dribbling, or shooting, but matches are won in the detailsālike receiving the ball cleanly.
By mastering directional touches, avoiding sprint on reception, and practicing in training mode, youāll not only keep possession more effectively but also unlock faster attacks and more creative options.
A solid first touch transforms your gameāand once you master it, youāll find yourself winning more matches with confidence.
