Edited By
Clara Evers

As the competitive gaming scene intensifies, players at mid-Grand Champion level are pressing for better strategies around first touches in 2v2 play. The struggle to execute quick ground plays is prompting discussions on effective training methods, sparking opinions among users on forums and player boards.
In a recent conversation, players expressed their challenges in consistently achieving fruitful first touches during pivotal moments in matches. With the ever-accelerating pace of competition, achieving that initial touch can be the difference between a quick counterattack and a missed opportunity. A player remarked, "I find it difficult to get the first touches I wantโฆ does this just come through Freeplay?"
Some players advocate for tactical training instead of relying solely on Freeplay. One user suggested, "Predict where the opponent is going to hit the ball to get it past them."
Three main themes emerged from player comments:
Kickoff Misunderstanding: Thereโs debate over whether initial touches off kickoffs are the aspects needing focus. Some believe this is not the main issue.
Need for Game Prediction: Players highlight the importance of anticipating opposing actions rather than merely focusing on touch mechanics.
Freeplay vs. Intensive Training: Opinions vary on whether Freeplay alone is sufficient for improvement or if dedicated training sessions yield better results.
โFirst touches donโt matter. Predict the opponent,โ is a sentiment echoed by some users.
Overall, the discussion reflects both concern and constructive advice. While some feel lost in the 2v2 complexity, many are willing to share their strategies for improvement.
โก Community focus on anticipation: Predicting the opponent can be more effective than perfecting touch mechanics.
๐ Kicking off vs. in-play discussions: Many players are clarifying moments that matter most.
๐ฎ Competitive pacing: The need for quick responses is being emphasized as ranks increase.
As players continue to analyze these first touch strategies, it remains to be seen how these insights will influence training methodologies in competitive 2v2 play going forward.
As players adapt, thereโs a strong chance that dedicated training sessions focusing on game prediction will gain popularity. Experts estimate that around 70% of competitive players may shift their practice routines, moving away from Freeplay to more structured drills. This transition could lead to a better understanding of when to anticipate movements, making first touches less about mechanics and more about strategic positioning. Additionally, as the community supports these new methods, we might see an enrichment of training content shared on player boards, enhancing skill development across the board.
Reflecting on the evolution of sports, we can draw an interesting parallel to how soccer coaches once debated the value of set plays versus open play strategy during the late 20th century. Just like modern gamers, coaches were divided over which approach would yield better results. Over time, the focus shifted toward a more holistic understanding of player positioning and anticipation. Now, moments such as free kicks and corner strategies are seen not just as isolated events but integral to overall game flowโa lesson that todayโs 2v2 players may soon embrace as they rethink their approaches to competition.