In the new gameplay trailer for FIFA 23 EA shows which features will be offered for the release. But besides Hypermotion 2, which will bring around 6,000 new animations and the new super shot, especially a new straddle called “Hard Slide” looks like a really powerful weapon for defenders.

And if it works as well as it looks, strikers could have a real problem in FIFA 23.

Bounce the ball into the stands with the “Hard Slide” slide

What kind of straddle is that? According to EA Sports, “Hard Slide” is meant for urgent situations in defense, where the defender doesn’t care if the ball stays in play or not. So the straddle has more oomph than the standard straddle and is capable of separating the opponent and the ball and sending it into the stands without a care.

A good last option, then, to prevent a goal against after all without causing a penalty. However, it could be dangerous if the straddle is applied too late. Then there could be a red card quite quickly.

So you should have a sure instinct – or you don’t care about the red card and just want to knock your opponent down. With “Hard Slide” this seems to be possible at last.

How strong is the straddle? Currently it’s hard to say how much influence the new power slide will actually have on the defensive game. However, in the footage of FIFA 23 it looks really powerful and precise.

Moreover, an EA developer also talks about it being the perfect answer for the new power shots. We remain curious.

This is how “Hard Slide” works: To perform the new “Hard Slide” you just have to press R1 and circle (RB and X) and your player will slide across the turf with the goal of removing the opponent from the ball.

What do you think about the new power grab? Are you happy to finally be able to separate your opponents from the ball with power? Tell us about it in the comments!

If you want to know more about FIFA 23, you can find here our overview about the FIFA 23 release.