TL;DR
- El Tornado is an advanced skill move involving ball spinning and aerial flicking for volley setups
- Only four players can initially perform it: Ronaldo, Griezmann, Alli, and Roberto Carlos
- Execute by holding L1/LB while moving right analog stick upward then sideways
- Practice extensively in training arena before attempting in competitive matches
- Master timing and positioning to maximize effectiveness in attacking situations
FIFA 18 introduces numerous gameplay enhancements, with the El Tornado standing out as one of the most dynamic skill moves available. This advanced technique represents a significant evolution in virtual football mechanics, allowing players to create spectacular offensive opportunities through precise ball control and aerial manipulation.
The El Tornado involves executing a rapid ball spin over your player’s foot followed by an upward flick into the air, perfectly positioning the ball for immediate volley opportunities. This move isn’t just for show—it serves as a tactical weapon that can bypass defenders and create shooting angles that would otherwise be impossible. The move’s inclusion in FIFA 18’s official trailer highlights its importance as a game-changing mechanic that separates casual players from skilled competitors.

From a mechanical perspective, the El Tornado combines two distinct actions: the initial ball rotation that confuses defenders about your intended direction, followed by the aerial lift that sets up powerful volley strikes. Understanding the physics behind this move helps players appreciate when and why to deploy it during matches. The move works exceptionally well in tight spaces where conventional dribbling would be ineffective, making it particularly valuable in final-third attacking situations.
Access to the El Tornado skill move remains heavily restricted in FIFA 18’s initial release. Currently, only four elite footballers possess the technical ability to execute this advanced maneuver: Cristiano Ronaldo, Antoine Griezmann, Dele Alli, and Roberto Carlos. EA Sports has deliberately limited this capability to maintain gameplay balance while rewarding players who invest in top-tier talent.
The selection criteria for El Tornado eligibility reflects real-world technical proficiency. Each approved player has demonstrated exceptional ball control and creativity in actual matches, with their virtual counterparts receiving corresponding capabilities. This approach ensures that skill move accessibility aligns with realistic football attributes rather than arbitrary game design decisions.
EA has indicated that additional players may gain El Tornado capabilities through future updates as real-life footballers demonstrate proficiency with the technique. This dynamic approach to skill allocation means that players should monitor both virtual and real-world football developments to identify new El Tornado candidates. The system creates an interesting connection between actual football innovation and its implementation within the game environment.
When building your ultimate team or selecting players for career mode, understanding El Tornado eligibility becomes crucial for strategic planning. The move’s exclusive nature makes qualified players particularly valuable in transfer markets and squad building challenges. For comprehensive team-building strategies, check out our Class Guide that covers optimal player selection approaches.
Mastering the El Tornado requires precise input execution across different gaming platforms. On PlayStation 4, the technique involves holding the L1 button while moving the Right Analog Stick upward and then immediately sideways in your desired direction. Xbox One players perform the identical maneuver using the LB button instead. The directional input determines which way your player will flick the ball, allowing for strategic placement around defenders.

For optimal results, practice the timing between the upward and sideways motions—this transition should be fluid rather than segmented. Many beginners struggle with executing the move consistently because they treat the inputs as separate actions rather than one continuous motion. The entire sequence should take approximately one second from start to finish when performed correctly.
Platform Note: While PlayStation and Xbox systems support native El Tornado execution, PC players must connect a compatible gaming controller such as the Xbox 360 Controller or Logitech Gamepad F310. Keyboard controls cannot replicate the analog precision required for this advanced skill move.
We strongly recommend spending at least 30-45 minutes in the Practice Arena before attempting the El Tornado in competitive matches. Begin with stationary executions until you achieve 90% success rate, then practice while moving at various speeds. The training investment pays dividends when you can reliably deploy the move during critical attacking moments. For more advanced control techniques, explore our Complete Guide to master complex gameplay mechanics.
The El Tornado transcends being merely a flashy skill move—it’s a strategic tool that, when deployed correctly, can dismantle defensive formations. The most effective applications occur in the final third when you need to create shooting space quickly. Since the move lifts the ball airborne, it naturally sets up volley opportunities that bypass ground-based defensive tackles.
Advanced players combine the El Tornado with other skill moves to create unpredictable attacking sequences. For instance, performing a ball roll immediately before an El Tornado can wrong-foot defenders expecting a ground-based continuation. Similarly, using the move after a fake shot increases its surprise factor, as defenders anticipate a different outcome from the setup animation.
Understanding defensive positioning is crucial for El Tornado success. The move works best against defenders who commit early to tackles or who maintain tight marking. Against more conservative defenders who maintain distance, alternative skill moves may prove more effective. This situational awareness separates proficient El Tornado users from those who simply spam the move indiscriminately.
FIFA 18 represents a significant evolution in football simulation, with the El Tornado exemplifying the advanced technical capabilities available to players. While this guide covers the fundamentals, true mastery comes from understanding how this move integrates with your overall gameplay strategy. As you develop your skills, consider exploring our Weapons Unlock guide for additional gameplay enhancement strategies that complement advanced skill moves.
SEE ALSO: Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 Review: Same Old Perfection
Action Checklist
- Verify player eligibility – ensure you’re using Ronaldo, Griezmann, Alli, or Roberto Carlos
- Practice basic input sequence in Practice Arena: Hold L1/LB + Upward then Sideways RS motion
- Master timing transition between upward and sideways motions for fluid execution
- Practice move while moving at different speeds and against passive defenders
- Integrate El Tornado into combination sequences with other skill moves
- Deploy strategically in competitive matches during appropriate attacking scenarios
No reproduction without permission:Tsp Game Club » How to Perform El Tornado Skill Move in FIFA 18 With Ease Master FIFA 18's El Tornado skill move with expert controls, player requirements, and advanced execution strategies
