How to Fix FIFA 20 Defending Issues on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

FIFA 20 is a popular football simulation game enjoyed by many on Windows 11. However, some players face issues with defending, which can be frustrating and affect gameplay. If your defending feels unresponsive or inconsistent, there are several ways to fix it.

This guide will walk you through simple to advanced steps to improve defending performance in FIFA 20 on Windows 11. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced player, these solutions are easy to follow.

By following this article, you’ll learn how to troubleshoot common problems and optimize your settings for better defensive control. Let’s get started and make your defending sharper and more effective.

Improving your defending can greatly enhance your overall gameplay experience. Read on for detailed, step-by-step instructions.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for FIFA 20.
Check that Windows 11 and your graphics drivers are fully updated.
Confirm that your game is updated to the latest version via Origin or Steam.
Use a controller or keyboard setup that you are comfortable with for better response.

Step 1: Adjust In-Game Defending Settings

Sometimes, the default defending settings in FIFA 20 may not suit your playstyle or your hardware. Adjusting these settings can improve responsiveness and control.

How to Adjust Defending Settings

Launch FIFA 20 and go to the main menu.
Navigate to Settings > Controller Settings.
Find the Defending option, which usually has two modes: Legacy Defending and Timed Defending.
Try switching between these modes and see which feels more responsive. Timed Defending requires precise timing but offers better control.
Save your changes and test the gameplay to check if defending improves.

Why this matters: Different defending modes change how your inputs are registered during defense. Choosing the right mode can reduce input lag and improve accuracy.

Step 2: Optimize Your Game Settings for Performance

Lag or low frame rates can cause delays in defending actions. Optimizing your graphics settings helps FIFA 20 run smoothly on Windows 11.

How to Optimize Graphics Settings

Open FIFA 20 and go to Settings > Video Settings.
Lower the resolution slightly if you experience lag (e.g., from 1920×1080 to 1600×900).
Reduce graphics quality settings such as Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, and Anti-Aliasing.
Disable V-Sync if you notice input lag during defense, as it can sometimes cause delays.
Apply changes and restart the game.

Why this helps: Smoother gameplay means quicker input recognition, which is crucial for timing-based defending actions.

Step 3: Update Your Controller or Keyboard Drivers

Using outdated drivers can cause input delays or misreads, impacting your ability to defend effectively.

How to Update Drivers

Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Expand the section for Keyboards or Human Interface Devices (for controllers).
Right-click your device and choose Update driver.
Select Search automatically for updated driver software and follow prompts.
Restart your PC after updating.

Alternative: Visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver manually if automatic update fails.

Step 4: Disable Background Applications

Background apps can consume system resources, causing FIFA 20 to lag or inputs to delay.

How to Close Unnecessary Background Apps

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Look under the Processes tab for apps consuming high CPU, memory, or disk.
Select unwanted apps and click End Task.
Be cautious not to close essential system processes.

Why this is important: Freeing up system resources ensures FIFA 20 runs smoothly and your defending inputs register without delay.

Step 5: Run FIFA 20 in Compatibility Mode

Windows 11 is relatively new, and some games may have compatibility issues. Running FIFA 20 in compatibility mode can fix input or performance problems.

How to Enable Compatibility Mode

Navigate to the FIFA 20 installation folder (usually in C:Program Files (x86)Origin GamesFIFA 20 or Steam’s folder).
Right-click FIFA20.exe and select Properties.
Go to the Compatibility tab.
Check Run this program in compatibility mode for: and select Windows 10 from the dropdown.
Also check Run this program as an administrator.
Click Apply and OK.
Restart the game and test defending again.

Why this helps: Compatibility mode can resolve subtle conflicts between FIFA 20 and Windows 11, improving input handling and stability.

FAQs

Why does my defending feel delayed or unresponsive in FIFA 20?

This is often caused by input lag, low frame rates, or incorrect defending settings. Adjusting graphics, updating drivers, and changing defending modes can help.

Should I use Legacy Defending or Timed Defending?

Legacy Defending is simpler and better for beginners, while Timed Defending requires precise timing but offers more control. Try both to see what suits you.

Can keyboard players fix defending issues the same way as controller users?

Yes. Most troubleshooting steps apply to both. However, make sure your keyboard drivers are updated and consider trying a controller if problems persist.

Does disabling V-Sync always improve defending?

Not always. V-Sync can reduce screen tearing but sometimes increases input lag. Test with it on and off to find the best experience.

Will updating Windows 11 fix FIFA 20 issues?

Keeping Windows updated ensures better compatibility and performance, which can indirectly improve FIFA 20 gameplay.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still face defending problems, consider the following options:

Reinstall FIFA 20: A fresh install can fix corrupted game files.
Check EA Support: Visit EA Help for official support and patches.
Join Community Forums: Platforms like Reddit or EA forums may have user-shared fixes.
Use a Different Input Device: Try a different controller or keyboard to rule out hardware issues.

Conclusion

Defending issues in FIFA 20 on Windows 11 can be frustrating but are usually fixable with simple adjustments. Start by changing in-game defending modes and optimizing graphics settings to reduce lag. Keeping your drivers updated and closing background apps further improves responsiveness. Using compatibility mode can resolve deeper Windows 11 conflicts.

By following these step-by-step solutions, you can significantly improve your defending performance and enjoy a smoother gaming experience. Remember, if all else fails, official support and community resources are great places to find additional help.

Take your time with each step, test after changes, and soon you’ll be defending like a pro in FIFA 20.