What does Contain Mean in FIFA 12?

Question

There is a new defense in FIFA 12 known as 'contain'. What does it mean and how to use it? I played the interactive tutorial but don't get the idea.

Answer

I don't have a copy of FIFA 12, but here's the meaning of "contain" in real-world soccer:

The idea is that a defender should "manage" an attacker and wait for the attacker to make the first move instead of rushing forward to tackle the ball.

A defender trying to contain an attacker will typically hang back a bit, move to one side or the other to try to force the attacker to go in a particular direction, etc. The theory is that once the attacker makes their move, the defender can react appropriately.

You would typically apply it when play is relatively slow around your net. If there is a lot of fast-paced passing going on, you're likely better off moving around quickly to keep up with it.

Far as FIFA 12 goes, it appears that you'd basically use it in similar situations. You shouldn't overdo it:

If you continuously contain your opponent is going to have all the time in the world on the ball! All contain does is track your opponents run at a set distance away. You’ll never put a foot in.

Also, whilst containing you’ll never be close enough to put a tackle in. In order to make the tackle you’ll need to let go of the contain button, close in on your opponent and manually make a tackle.

But it can be a useful tool in one-on-one situations:

If the passing is moving around quickly then jockey (L2) will be better suited for defensive cover but if you need to hold someone up, or Ronaldo is running at you with verve then Contain is the best tool for the job.

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