FC 25 Player Role: Target Forward (Striker – ST)

In EA SPORTS FC™ 25, the Target Forward role is built for physically dominant strikers who use their strength and height to hold up play, shield the ball, and bring others into the attack. Positioned as a Striker (ST), the Target Forward thrives in both aerial duels and with their back to goal, feeding on crosses and passes to feet, providing a central outlet for their team’s attack.

Player Role: Target Forward

Position: Striker (ST)
Focus: Attack, Balanced, Wide

The Target Forward is a versatile option in attack, capable of performing different roles depending on the team’s tactical needs. Whether focusing solely on attacking, contributing to build-up play, or drifting wide to create space, the Target Forward’s physical presence and hold-up play are crucial to breaking down defenses.

FC 25 Player Role: Target Forward

Key Characteristics of the Target Forward:

Physical Dominance: The hallmark of a Target Forward is their ability to use strength and physicality to hold off defenders. They are excellent in aerial duels and can bring others into play by holding the ball up, waiting for support from midfield or wingers.
Hold-Up Play: Target Forwards are masters of shielding the ball with their back to goal. They can lay off passes to teammates making attacking runs or simply hold possession to relieve pressure.
Aerial Threat: This role is ideal for players who excel at heading. Target Forwards thrive on crosses from the wings, turning them into goal-scoring opportunities with their heading ability.

Focus Options:

The Target Forward can be set to three different focuses—Attack, Balanced, and Wide—depending on the team’s tactical needs:

1. Attack Focus

With an Attack focus, the Target Forward is allowed to concentrate purely on the offensive phase, without the need to drop deep or contribute to defense. They will stay high on the pitch, constantly positioning themselves to receive crosses or passes, looking to finish chances.

Physical (+): The Target Forward uses their strength to bully defenders, win aerial battles, and hold off opponents.
Attacking (+): They are always positioned in advanced areas to receive passes and score goals.
Build-Up Support (=): While primarily focused on attacking, they may still help retain possession if needed.
Lacks Mobility (-): Mobility is not their strength, as they prioritize physical play over running behind defenses.

2. Balanced Focus

In Balanced focus, the Target Forward will drop deeper to assist in build-up play, holding the ball up for teammates and helping to maintain possession. They will also have minor defensive duties, pressing or helping in transitional moments.

Physical (+): Their strength allows them to hold up the ball effectively.
Build-Up Support (+): They contribute more to team play by creating space, holding possession, and laying off passes.
Defense Support (=): Although not primarily defensive, they may help with pressing or covering space when needed.
Lacks Mobility (-): As a physical player, they aren’t known for making fast runs in behind.

3. Wide Focus

With a Wide focus, the Target Forward drifts toward the flanks to exploit space, especially in situations where defenders are packed centrally. This movement allows them to create opportunities for teammates in the box or cut in for goal-scoring chances themselves.

Physical (+): The Target Forward remains strong and capable of holding the ball up even in wide areas.
Wide Support (+): They offer an additional option on the flanks, helping stretch the defense and create space for others.
Attacking (=): While still a goal-scoring threat, they contribute more to overall team play by opening space.
Support Centrally (-): They tend to drift away from central areas, making them less available in the box for crosses.

Summary

The Target Forward (Striker – ST) in EA SPORTS FC™ 25 is a highly tactical role, perfect for teams looking to use a physical, hold-up style striker who can create chances for others or score themselves. Depending on the focus—Attack, Balanced, or Wide—the Target Forward can adapt to different situations, providing aerial prowess, hold-up play, and a strong physical presence.

This role is ideal for strikers who can dominate defenders with their size and strength while still contributing to build-up play or drifting wide to create space. The Target Forward’s ability to shield the ball, win aerial duels, and make an impact both centrally and out wide makes them a versatile and valuable asset in any attacking setup.