In the upcoming EA FC 25, the latest installment of the renowned football simulation series, a new gameplay feature is set to stir up unwelcome memories for Liverpool supporters. The game's developers have introduced a new animation that will cause players to occasionally slip after making a hard pass on FC 25 Coins slippery surfaces, such as during rainy or snowy matches in non-competitive modes.
While the developers have emphasized that this animation is purely visual and does not affect the outcome of a pass or shot, the mere concept of players slipping on the pitch is enough to unsettle Liverpool fans. For them, this new feature is a haunting reminder of one of the most painful moments in the club's recent history.
The year was 2013-14, and Liverpool were riding high on a 16-game winning streak, leading the Premier League title race by five points with just three games remaining. The Reds were on the cusp of winning their first league title since the 1989-90 season, a drought that had lasted nearly a quarter of a century.
As Liverpool hosted second-placed Chelsea at Anfield, the title was within their grasp. The match was tied 0-0 before half-time, and the Reds had possession in the visitors' half when disaster struck. Steven Gerrard, the iconic Liverpool captain, misplayed a pass from Mamadou Sakho, sending the ball straight to Chelsea striker Demba Ba.
In a heartbreaking moment, Gerrard slipped and fell to the ground, allowing Ba to walk onto the pitch and score. Chelsea went on to win the match 2-0, and Liverpool's lead at the top of the table was reduced to just one point. In the following game, the Reds drew 3-3 with Crystal Palace, handing the title to Manchester City.
The agonizing collapse of Liverpool's title challenge, particularly the fall of club legend Gerrard, has become etched in the memories of Liverpool fans. It marked the beginning of a period of decline for the club, as they struggled to regain their form and challenge for the Premier League crown in the seasons that followed.
Now, with the introduction of the slip animation in EA FC 25, Liverpool supporters are bracing themselves for a painful reminder of that fateful day. The mere sight of players slipping on the pitch, even in a virtual setting, is likely to evoke strong emotions and reopen old wounds.
However, it is worth noting that the developers have emphasized that the animation will only be triggered in non-competitive modes, ensuring that it does not directly impact the outcome of important matches. Nevertheless, the mere presence of the feature is sure to stir up strong reactions from Liverpool fans, who will undoubtedly relive the heartbreak of their team's historic collapse.
As the release of EA FC 25 draws nearer, Liverpool supporters will be hoping that the new gameplay feature does not become a constant source of anguish, but rather a reminder of the resilience and determination their team must possess to overcome the demons of the past and buy EAFC 25 Coins finally end their Premier League title drought.