PES 2021 PC: Dominate Defense With These Tips

Hey guys! Are you struggling to keep clean sheets in PES 2021 on PC? Do you find yourself conceding goals that make you want to throw your controller (or keyboard) across the room? Don't worry, you're not alone! Defending in PES 2021 can be tricky, especially against skilled opponents. But fear not, because this guide is packed with PES 2021 PC defending tips that will transform you from a defensive liability into a brick wall. We’ll break down the essential techniques, tactical tweaks, and mindset shifts you need to master to shut down even the most potent attacks. So, let's dive into the world of tackles, interceptions, and clean sheets!

Understanding the Basics of Defending in PES 2021

Before we get into the advanced strategies, it's crucial to understand the fundamental mechanics of defending in PES 2021. This isn't just about pressing buttons randomly; it's about understanding space, timing, and player positioning. Think of it like a chess match – every move you make should be calculated and purposeful.

• Player Switching: This is the most basic but also one of the most important aspects of defending. You need to be able to quickly and accurately switch between your players to close down passing lanes, track runners, and make tackles. Get comfortable using both the shoulder buttons (L1/LB and R1/RB) and the right stick for player switching. The right stick allows for more precise selection, especially when multiple players are in close proximity. Practice switching to the player who is best positioned to intercept a pass or make a tackle. Don't just stick with the player the game automatically selects for you – often, there's a better option available.
• Contain (X/A Button): The contain button is your bread and butter for general defending. It allows you to jockey an opponent, staying close without committing to a tackle. This is particularly useful for guiding attackers away from dangerous areas or waiting for support from your teammates. Be mindful of your player's stamina while containing, as it can drain quickly. Use contain to control the space and force the attacker into making a mistake. Mastering the art of contain is the first step to becoming a solid defender in PES 2021.
• Pressure (Square/X Button): This button initiates a more aggressive press, causing your player to close down the opponent quickly. However, be careful when using pressure, as it can pull your players out of position and leave gaps in your defense. It’s best used in short bursts to win the ball back quickly or to force a rushed pass. Avoid holding the pressure button for extended periods, as this will tire your players and make them vulnerable to being beaten. Effective use of pressure requires good timing and awareness of your defensive shape. Think of it as a calculated gamble – a high-risk, high-reward move that can turn the tide of the game.
• Tackling (Circle/B Button): The tackle button is for making a direct challenge for the ball. Timing is absolutely crucial when tackling. Go in too early, and you'll likely miss and leave your opponent with acres of space. Go in too late, and you'll concede a foul or, worse, a penalty. Watch the opponent's body language and try to anticipate their next move before committing to a tackle. Slide tackles can be effective in certain situations, but they are also very risky. Use them sparingly and only when you are confident you will win the ball. A well-timed tackle can break up an attack and win back possession, but a mistimed one can leave you exposed. Remember, the best defense is often a good offense, so winning the ball cleanly is key to launching a counter-attack.
• Clearance (Square/X Button near your goal): When the ball is in your penalty area, don't hesitate to clear it. A rushed or misplaced pass under pressure can be disastrous. Just hammer the clearance button to get the ball as far away from your goal as possible. While clearances might not be the most elegant solution, they are often the safest and most effective way to deal with immediate danger. Think of it as a temporary fix – it buys you time to reorganize your defense and regain composure. Don't be afraid to hoof it upfield if necessary; sometimes, the best defense is a good, old-fashioned clearance.

Advanced Defending Techniques for PES 2021 on PC

Okay, now that we've covered the basics, let's move on to some more advanced techniques that will really elevate your defending game.

• Double Teaming: PES 2021 allows you to bring a second player to pressure the ball carrier. To do this, hold the contain button (X/A) and then press the pressure button (Square/X). This can be very effective for swarming attackers and winning back possession quickly. However, be aware that double teaming can leave gaps in your defense, so use it strategically and only when you have adequate cover. Think of it as a calculated risk – a powerful tool that can disrupt attacks but also leave you vulnerable if used carelessly. Effective double teaming requires good communication and coordination with your teammates, so practice it in training to get a feel for the timing and positioning.
• Manual Cursor Change: As mentioned earlier, mastering manual cursor change is crucial for effective defending. Don't rely on the game to automatically select the best player for you. Use the right stick to quickly switch between players and position them strategically to intercept passes, track runners, and close down space. Practice switching between players seamlessly and anticipate the opponent's movements. This will give you a significant advantage in defending against skilled opponents who are adept at exploiting defensive weaknesses. Think of it as taking control of your defense – a proactive approach that allows you to dictate the flow of the game.
• Offside Trap: The offside trap can be a very effective way to catch attackers offside and break up their momentum. However, it requires precise timing and coordination. To execute the offside trap, press the down arrow on the D-pad twice just as the opponent is about to play a through ball. Be careful when using the offside trap, as a mistimed attempt can leave your defense exposed and lead to an easy goal for the opposition. It's best used sparingly and only when you are confident in your defensive line's ability to execute it correctly. Think of it as a high-risk, high-reward strategy – a gamble that can pay off handsomely if executed properly but can also backfire spectacularly if mistimed.
• Sliding Tackle Mastery: While risky, well-timed sliding tackles can be game-changing. Learn the angles and timing for effective slides. Aim to get the ball, not the player, to avoid fouls and cards. Practice in training mode to perfect your technique.
• Strategic Fouls: Sometimes, a tactical foul is necessary to prevent a dangerous attack. If an opponent is through on goal or about to enter a dangerous area, a well-placed foul can be the best option. Just be mindful of the risk of yellow cards and potential free-kick opportunities for the opposition. Think of it as a necessary evil – a last resort that can prevent a goal but also carries the risk of further punishment. Use it sparingly and only when the potential consequences of allowing the attack to continue are greater than the risk of a foul.

Tactical Adjustments for a Solid Defense

Your tactics play a huge role in how well you defend. Here are some adjustments you can make to create a more solid defensive foundation:

• Defensive Formation: Choose a formation that suits your play style and provides adequate defensive cover. Formations like 4-4-2, 4-3-3 (with defensive midfielders), and 5-3-2 are generally good choices for a solid defense. Experiment with different formations to find what works best for you. Consider your players' strengths and weaknesses when choosing a formation. A formation that maximizes your players' abilities will be more effective than one that doesn't. Think of your formation as the foundation of your defense – a blueprint that dictates how your players will position themselves and interact with each other.
• Team Instructions: Adjust your team instructions to prioritize defense. Set your defensive line to "Deep" to prevent through balls and reduce the space behind your defense. Use the "Conservative" pressing instruction to prevent your players from being drawn out of position. Experiment with different team instructions to find what works best for your team and your play style. Consider your opponent's strengths and weaknesses when adjusting your team instructions. If they are strong on the counter-attack, a deeper defensive line and conservative pressing will be more effective. Think of your team instructions as the fine-tuning of your defense – adjustments that can enhance its effectiveness and compensate for specific weaknesses.
• Individual Instructions: Assign individual instructions to your key players to enhance their defensive capabilities. For example, instruct your defensive midfielders to "Stay Back While Attacking" to provide extra cover for your defense. Instruct your full-backs to "Defensive" to prevent them from venturing too far forward and leaving your defense exposed. Consider your players' individual attributes when assigning individual instructions. A player with high defensive awareness and tackling ability will be more effective in a defensive role. Think of your individual instructions as the personalized touch to your defense – adjustments that can maximize the impact of your key players and create a more cohesive defensive unit.
• Adapt to Your Opponent: Don't be afraid to change your formation and tactics during the game to counter your opponent's strengths. If they are playing with two strikers, consider switching to a formation with three center-backs. If they are dominating the midfield, add an extra defensive midfielder to win back possession. Being adaptable is key to success in PES 2021. Observe your opponent's tactics and adjust your own accordingly. If they are exploiting a particular weakness in your defense, make changes to address it. Think of adaptability as the ultimate defensive weapon – the ability to adjust your tactics on the fly and neutralize any threat that your opponent throws at you.

Mindset and Practice: The Keys to Defensive Success

Finally, remember that defending is not just about tactics and techniques; it's also about mindset and practice. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Patience is Key: Don't get frustrated if you concede a goal. Stay patient and stick to your defensive plan. Focus on making smart decisions and avoiding unnecessary risks. Defending is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires discipline, concentration, and the ability to weather the storm. Don't let a momentary lapse in concentration derail your entire defensive strategy. Stay focused on the task at hand and trust in your ability to defend effectively.
• Anticipate, Don't React: Try to anticipate your opponent's moves before they happen. Watch their body language, analyze their passing patterns, and try to predict their next move. The more you can anticipate, the easier it will be to intercept passes, make tackles, and close down space. Think of yourself as a defensive strategist – a chess player who is always one step ahead of their opponent. By anticipating their moves, you can disrupt their attacks and force them into making mistakes.
• Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice defending, the better you will become. Spend time in training mode working on your player switching, tackling, and positioning. Experiment with different formations and tactics to find what works best for you. The more you practice, the more natural these techniques will become, and the more confident you will be in your ability to defend effectively. Think of practice as the foundation of your defensive skills – the more time you invest in it, the stronger and more reliable your defense will become.

By implementing these PES 2021 PC defending tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a defensive master. Remember, it takes time and practice to master these techniques, but with dedication and perseverance, you'll be shutting out your opponents and climbing the ranks in no time! So get out there, practice those tackles, and start dominating the defensive side of PES 2021! Good luck, and have fun!