Corner Kicks (Attacking & Defending)

Learn how to score from corners and defend them effectively in EA Sports FC 27. This guide covers attacking and defending corner kick strategies for Ultimate Team and Career Mode.

Corner kicks are a crucial set-piece opportunity in EA Sports FC 27, offering a direct route to goal if executed correctly. Whether you're attacking or defending, mastering these situations can significantly impact your match results. This guide will break down the best strategies for both scenarios.

Attacking Corner Kicks

1. Aim and Power: Use the left stick to aim your cross towards a specific area in the box (near post, center, far post). The longer you hold the shoot button, the more power you put on the ball. Aim for 4-5 bars of power for most situations.
2. Player Instructions: Before taking the corner, you can issue instructions to your players. Sending players to the front post, back post, or 'attack near post' can create different attacking threats.
3. Types of Corners: Experiment with different corner types. Low driven crosses can be effective against packed defenses, while whipped crosses with high power can find players in the air.
4. Targeting Players: Identify your tallest and most athletic players (e.g., tall strikers or center-backs) and aim your crosses towards them. Using the 'call near/far post' option can help direct the ball to your target.
5. Set Piece Taker Chemistry: A player with high crossing and curve stats will deliver better corners. Consider using a player with a specific trait like 'Whipped Cross' if available.
6. Practice Mode: Utilize the practice arena to get a feel for aiming, power, and different types of crosses without the pressure of a live match.

Defending Corner Kicks

1. Player Positioning: Ensure your players are set up to defend the box effectively. Typically, you'll want a mix of players marking attackers and some ready to clear the ball.
2. Goalkeeper Control: Manually controlling your goalkeeper can be highly effective. Position them to intercept crosses or punch the ball away from danger.
3. Clearing the Ball: When the ball is in the air, use the 'clearance' button (often Circle/B) to powerfully send the ball upfield and relieve pressure. Aiming for distance is key.
4. Marking: Assign players to mark specific opposition attackers, especially their aerial threats. Ensure your defenders are close enough to prevent headers.
5. Second Ball: Be prepared for the second ball. Often, a cleared corner can fall to an opposition player outside the box. Have a midfielder ready to close them down.
6. Custom Tactics: Adjust your defensive set-pieces in custom tactics to prioritize 'stay back at corners' for certain players if you're struggling with counter-attacks.

Mastering both attacking and defending corner kicks requires practice and understanding of the game's mechanics. By implementing these strategies, you'll be able to convert more chances and shut down your opponents' set-piece threats in EA Sports FC 27.