Penalty shootouts in FC 24 can be one of the most nerve-wracking yet rewarding moments in any match. Whether you’re playing Career Mode, Ultimate Team, or just a friendly match with friends, knowing how to do a penalty shootout in FC 24 is essential. With EA Sports FC making key updates to shooting mechanics, timing, and visual cues, penalty kicks have become more precise and skill-based than ever before. Mastering this feature can be the difference between victory and defeat, and it starts with understanding the updated control system, shot timing, and goalkeeper tactics.
Basics of Taking a Penalty in FC 24
Penalty Shot Mechanics
In FC 24, penalty kicks are based on a combination of aiming, power control, and timing. The green composure ring around the ball is central to this mechanic. It represents how composed your player is shrinking and expanding in rhythm. Hitting the shoot button when the ring is at its smallest increases accuracy and power.
Here are the basic steps to take a penalty:
- Use the left stick to aim where you want to shoot (top left, bottom right, center, etc.).
- Press and hold the shoot button (Circle on PlayStation, B on Xbox) to determine power.
- Time your release when the green ring around the ball is smallest for the best accuracy.
Aiming Tips
Be careful with how far you push the left stick while aiming. Slight movements allow for better placement. If you over-aim, you risk missing the target entirely. You can aim high, low, or toward the middle depending on your strategy and the goalkeeper’s behavior.
Types of Penalty Shots
Standard Power Shot
This is the most commonly used type of penalty. It balances power and placement. Hold the shoot button until about 50-70% of the power bar fills, and aim for one of the corners. These shots are hard to stop if timed correctly.
Finesse Shot Penalty
Using R1 (PlayStation) or RB (Xbox) while shooting will trigger a finesse shot. This type curves slightly and sacrifices power for placement. It’s best used when aiming for the top corners.
Chip Shot (Panenka)
To execute a cheeky chip down the middle, hold L1 (PlayStation) or LB (Xbox) while shooting. Chip shots work best if you think the goalkeeper will dive early to one side. However, they carry high risk and are easy to mess up if poorly timed.
Timed Finishing
Timed finishing can also be used on penalties. After your initial button press, tap the shoot button again just before your player strikes the ball. If timed well, this improves accuracy and power. But if mistimed, it leads to weak or off-target shots.
Choosing the Right Penalty Taker
Key Attributes to Consider
Your success in penalty shootouts depends heavily on the player taking the kick. Choose players with strong stats in the following attributes:
- Penalty (PEN): Determines overall accuracy and composure during the shot.
- Composure: Affects how well a player handles the pressure, especially in shootouts.
- Shot Power: Dictates how hard the ball is struck. High power makes it harder for goalkeepers to react.
- Finishing: Though not essential, it still contributes slightly to shot placement in some modes.
Best Practices for Player Selection
When entering a penalty shootout in modes like Career or Ultimate Team, you’ll often be asked to arrange your order of takers. Put your most confident and high-rated penalty takers in the early spots. Save decent players for later shots to maintain momentum if the shootout goes the distance.
Defending Penalty Shots
Goalkeeper Controls
Controlling the goalkeeper in FC 24 penalty shootouts is simple but requires good prediction. Here’s how to do it:
- Use the right stick (R) to dive left or right before the shot is taken.
- You can use L1 (PS) or LB (Xbox) to perform a fake-out or move slightly on the line.
- Don’t move too early, as it could reveal your direction to the opponent.
Reading the Shooter
Experienced players will vary their shot directions, but many still follow patterns. If you’re playing online, observe their foot position and run-up angle. Players angling wide often aim across their body. Narrow run-ups might signal a middle shot or a chip.
Saving Tips
- Choose a goalkeeper with high Reflexes and Diving stats.
- Watch for player tendencies if you’ve faced them before.
- Be patient. Many missed penalties come from panicked dives.
Practice Makes Perfect
Using Practice Mode
FC 24 allows you to practice penalty shootouts in training mode. Use this feature to familiarize yourself with the mechanics and build consistency. You can adjust camera angles, player lineups, and keeper behavior for a more customized experience.
Improving Timing and Accuracy
Try different combinations of power, aim, and timing to see what works best for your style. Consistently hitting the green zone on the composure ring is key. Practicing with multiple players also helps you understand individual animation styles and shooting motions.
Strategies for Online Shootouts
Mind Games
Penalty shootouts online are as much mental as mechanical. Mix up your shots don’t always go left or right. Consider aiming one way and lightly tapping the shot to throw off your opponent’s prediction. Likewise, when goalkeeping, try delaying your dive or slightly shuffling to bait them into a poor shot.
Momentum and Pressure
In online modes like FUT Champions or Rivals, shootouts often come with high stakes. The key is to stay calm. Stick with the methods you’ve practiced, and avoid trying risky moves unless you’re confident. If you miss early, don’t panic many matches have turned around in the final rounds of a shootout.
Additional Tips for Mastery
- Turn off the aiming reticle for added realism and difficulty if you’re confident in your muscle memory.
- Watch your player’s foot placement closely as it gives subtle clues on where the ball will go.
- Try using different shot types in various scenarios to keep your opponent guessing.
- In Career Mode, build players with high penalty stats over time by assigning appropriate development plans.
Knowing how to do a penalty shootout in FC 24 is a critical skill that can define the outcome of competitive matches. With refined shooting mechanics, enhanced pressure systems, and smarter goalkeeper AI, each kick demands precision and mental focus. From selecting the right taker to mastering shot timing and placement, practicing consistently is the best way to gain confidence. Whether you’re aiming for online glory or silverware in Career Mode, every successful penalty begins with preparation and ends with perfect execution.