Not every method of scoring in EA FC 26 is equal in every situation. Sometimes, a finesse shot into the far corner is the perfect way to exploit a scoring situation, whereas other times, it’s better off to just go for all-out power. If you’re dealing with a ball in the air, you’ll typically want to head the ball, but trying to keep it away from the keeper can be difficult. One of the best ways of doing this is to use a downward header in EA FC 26, so here’s what you need to do to perform one.
How to Do a Downward Header in EA FC 26
Prepare to Put in the Work on the Training Ground
Unlike a lot of other types of shots and attacking plays, the downward header isn’t actually mentioned in the control options within the game’s menus. As such, a lot of players assume that aiming your player’s header down towards the ground is something you could no longer control.
However, in my time playing EA FC 26, I’ve found that by pressing and holding RB on Xbox/ R1 on PlayStation while pressing B/Circle when the ball is coming to your player in the air, they’ll typically perform a downward header.
Having tall players in EA FC 26 with a good heading stat will also increase your chances of scoring a downward header.
It’s worth noting that the downward angle of your header does seem to vary each time. The best way to ensure you get a real ‘drop’ on the trajectory of the ball is to put as little power on the header as possible by only tapping B/Circle when the ball is approaching your player. It can take some trial and error to get the execution down, much like the low-driven shot, so be sure to use the practice arena to really get it nailed down.
This can be particularly useful if your player is already close to the goalkeeper, as it requires them to get low quickly to save it. Alternatively, if you’re dealing with a crowded box, a header aimed downwards can be a convenient way of getting the ball past defenders standing on the goal line waiting to clear the ball away in the air.
Not every aerial ball you press RB + B / R1 + Circle when it’s coming toward you is going to result in a downward header. Sometimes your player will be in a better position to volley the ball instead. To avoid this, try using lofted crosses (LB + X/ L1 + Square), as this will cause the ball to reach your player at a higher point, making heading the ball the obvious option.