Master FIFA 23 kick-ups: control inputs, advanced strategies, and common mistakes to avoid for ultimate in-game flair
Kick-Ups: The Ultimate Tool for Dominance and Creativity
Want to add a layer of psychological warfare and creative offense to your FIFA 23 gameplay? Mastering the kick-up, or juggle, is your key. This move goes beyond simple skill moves, serving as both a potent taunt and a setup for spectacular goals.
FIFA 23 offers a vast arsenal of flashy maneuvers, but the kick-up stands alone for its unique blend of humiliation and utility. It’s not just about showing off—it’s about controlling the tempo and psyche of the match. If you’re ready to learn this iconic skill, here is your definitive guide to juggling in FIFA 23.
Success in competitive modes like Division Rivals and FUT Champions requires mastering several mechanics, from precise Trivela shots to powerful Power Shots. Among the dozens of skill moves, some are essential for high-level play, while others, like kick-ups, are tools for expression and mind games. Understanding this distinction is crucial for effective use.
This move is intentionally designed for flair and asserting dominance. Performing kick-ups in the middle of the pitch, calmly juggling as an opponent frantically closes you down, sends a clear message of superiority. It’s a calculated risk that, when executed correctly, can tilt the match in your favor beyond the scoreline.
If your goal is to secure a win while also delivering a memorable, style-driven performance, mastering the kick-up is non-negotiable. The following sections will break down the controls, advanced techniques, and strategic applications.
Executing Perfect Kick-Ups: The Fundamental Controls
The basic input for juggling is simple to learn but requires precision to execute reliably. To initiate kick-ups, you must hold down the L2 button (PlayStation) or LT button (Xbox) and then repeatedly, rhythmically tap the R1 (PS) or RB (Xbox) button. Your controlled player will begin popping the ball into the air, maintaining the juggle as long as you continue the input.
A critical, non-negotiable rule exists: Kick-ups can only be performed when your player is entirely stationary. This is the most common point of failure for players learning the move. You must come to a complete stop, often using a light tap of the analog stick or a skill move like a stop-and-turn, before the input will work. Attempting it while moving, even slightly, will result in nothing.
Pro Tip: The rhythm of the R1/RB tap matters. Tapping too fast can cause your player to stumble, while tapping too slow will let the ball drop. Aim for a steady, metronomic pace that matches your player’s animation. Practice this rhythm in the Arena or a low-pressure game mode first.
From Showboating to Scoring: Advanced Applications
While demoralizing a losing opponent is satisfying, kick-ups have direct offensive utility. To transition from juggling into a scoring chance, flick the right analog stick in any direction during the kick-ups. This will launch the ball higher into the air, perfectly setting up a first-time volley. The height and direction of the flick influence the subsequent shot, allowing for angled volleys.
The same right-stick flick can be used more delicately. A subtle flick as a defender approaches can lob the ball just over their head, allowing you to run onto it. This is especially effective against defenders who commit to a sliding tackle.
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Strategic Integration: Don’t use kick-ups in isolation. Use them at the edge of the box after creating space with a skill move like a Ball Roll or Step Over. The sudden change from dynamic dribbling to a stationary juggle can freeze defenders, giving you the extra second to flick and volley. Always assess the defensive pressure and have an exit strategy—a safe pass option—if the space closes.
Pro-Level Strategies and Critical Pitfalls to Avoid
When to Use It: The optimal time for kick-ups is when you have a clear numerical or psychological advantage. Use it in the opponent’s half when leading by multiple goals to drain their morale, or in wide areas where you have space and time. Avoid using it in your own defensive third or when the score is tight, as a lost possession there is catastrophic.
Common Mistakes & Fixes:
1. Mistake: Attempting while moving. Fix: Drill the habit of a full stop. Bind a ‘stop’ command to your muscle memory.
2. Mistake: Using it under immediate pressure. Fix: Only juggle when the nearest defender is at least 3-5 yards away.
3. Mistake: Predictable follow-up. Fix: Mix up your right-stick flicks—sometimes go for a powerful volley, sometimes a delicate chip, sometimes a simple catch and dribble.
4. Mistake: Ignoring player stats. Fix: Players with high Ball Control, Agility, and Composure perform kick-ups more smoothly and are less likely to be dispossessed mid-skill.
For more on FIFA 23, be sure to check out our other guides:
FIFA 23 ICONS | FIFA 23 FUT Heroes | FIFA 23 crossplay explained | Best FIFA 23 custom tactics, meta formations & player instructions | FIFA 23 TOTW squads: Team of the Week explained | How to do the best FIFA 23 celebrations | Best FIFA 23 camera settings for Ultimate Team | Best Goalkeepers for FIFA 23 Ultimate Team
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