Konami hasn’t held back on releasing new players for eFootball 2026. With additions like Epic cards, Show Time players, and a recent set of powerful attackers, the game consistently offers players plenty of options.
Though center forwards often get the most attention, the Second Striker role has become surprisingly important in modern football. A skilled Second Striker does more than just score goals—they create opportunities by making well-timed runs, connecting with teammates, finding open space, and generally shaping the direction of an attack.
It’s tough to know which players are truly the best with so many choices. So, let’s get straight to the point: here’s a simple ranking of the Top 10 Best Second Strikers in eFootball 2026.
Top 10 Best SS in eFootball 2026
This list considers all card types, from common to rare. We’ve focused on players who are naturally good at playing as second strikers – those who move well, create chances, and score goals – rather than traditional, dedicated goalscorers.
Okay, so when I was building my team, I really focused on specific player types to keep things consistent. I only considered players with the Dummy Runner, Deep-Lying Forward, Hole Player, or Creative Playmaker styles. Basically, I wanted true Shadow Striker specialists, and left out wide forwards or attackers who didn’t fully fit that central, attacking role. I was aiming for players who really owned the SS position.
As a big fan, I’ve put together this list based on how things are playing out right now. The game is always changing with updates and balance tweaks, so expect these rankings to shift as new characters or strategies become popular. It’s a snapshot of the ‘meta’ as it stands today, and it definitely won’t stay the same forever!
1. Lionel Messi
- Card Version: Big Time New Year
- Playing Style: Creative Playmaker
When this Messi card came out, it was considered one of the very best in the game, and it definitely lives up to the hype. I immediately noticed how often he controls the ball – it’s a huge improvement over his previous ‘MSN Big Time’ card. You can really feel the difference.
He’s incredibly skilled with the ball – easily the smoothest and quickest dribbler I’ve ever used. Once he has space, defenders just can’t catch him. His shot power is surprisingly strong too, making him dangerous from outside the penalty area. He’s best played as a striker where he can both score goals and create opportunities for teammates. He’s truly top-tier.
2. Ruud Gullit
- Card Version: Epic AC Milan
- Playing Style: Hole Player
Hole Player Gullit is a dynamic and impactful second striker who instantly changes the game when he enters the field. He’s constantly moving, dropping back to help build attacks, and making late runs into the box, all while seamlessly integrating into the offensive play without needing to be specifically sought out.
I use this player as a striker because he’s incredibly well-rounded – he can dribble, protect the ball, and still get into good scoring positions. While he’s also a great center forward, I feel like he’s even more effective in this other role.
3. Kaká
- Card Version: Epic Breakthrough Pass
- Playing Style: Creative Playmaker
Kaka excels as a second forward, particularly if you value speed and the ability to dribble through the center of the field. He’s most effective when allowed to receive the ball a bit further back and then run with it, rather than constantly asking him to make runs without the ball.
This player has a lot of great qualities. He’s quick, strong with the ball, and confident moving it into the opponent’s territory to score. Playing as a second striker, he both creates scoring chances for the center forward and poses a goal threat himself, making him a very effective part of a three-player attack.
4. Johan Cruyff
- Card Version: Epic New Year
- Playing Style: Deep-Lying Forward
In eFootball, Johan Cruyff as a second striker perfectly embodies the ‘false nine’ playstyle. This card excels in that position because he’s designed to receive the ball, quickly turn, and immediately create attacking opportunities.
Momentum Dribbling significantly improves ball control and is ideal for a Deep-Lying Forward (DLF) playstyle. This player excels at carrying the ball, making accurate passes, and even joining the attack to score. While DLFs require skillful players to be effective, this particular player has exceptional potential and could become one of the best in the game.
5. Michel Platini
- Card Version: Epic National Midfielders
- Playing Style: Hole Player
Platini is a remarkably intelligent player card. Unlike many, he doesn’t just rush up the field. I’ve observed that he patiently looks for openings and then makes his move at the perfect time. This excellent timing is what makes him so valuable playing behind a center forward.
He’s versatile – equally good at dribbling with the ball, shooting from distance, and assisting teammates, giving him plenty of flexibility in this position. His ability to read the play and deliver accurate passes, thanks to his ‘Visionary Pass’ skill, is a major asset.
6. Francesco Totti
- Card Version: Epic National Midfielders
- Playing Style: Creative Playmaker
Totti excels as a second striker, but he’s not a player who constantly runs around. He’s best used connecting midfield to the forwards, finding space between the lines. He’s a great fit for teams that prefer a more patient, deliberate style of play, waiting for the perfect opportunity to attack.
He’s skilled at controlling the ball even when facing away from the goal, and can quickly turn to either shoot or make a clever pass. When used as a substitute, he’s a valuable late-game player who can instantly improve the team’s attack.
7. Pelé
- Card Version: Epic World Classics
- Playing Style: Deep-Lying Forward
Pele is an elite player, excelling as both a Center Forward and a Striker. He’s incredibly fun to use in the game, largely thanks to his double ‘Show Time’ ability. This allows him to effectively create scoring chances and finish them himself, without needing to be specifically built for one role.
He’s quick and agile on the field, making him a joy to watch. His exceptional close control and ability to turn and accelerate in small spaces make him ideally suited to play just behind the center forward. If this style doesn’t quite fit at center forward or as a secondary striker, he’ll definitely excel in that role.
8. Zico
- Card Version: Epic National Attackers
- Playing Style: Creative Playmaker
Zico excels playing as a second striker, particularly near the penalty area. He’s able to control the ball with a couple of touches and then powerfully curl a shot towards the goal. In my opinion, he’s one of the best players with either foot when it comes to executing this type of shot, and his skill coming off the classic number 10 position is sure to impress viewers.
This player’s biggest asset is their skill on the ball. They’re incredibly smooth, difficult to dispossess, and their Momentum Dribbling gives them a dangerous turn of pace. However, I still think the Classic No. 10 style is better overall.
9. Raúl
- Card Version: Epic Worldwide
- Playing Style: Dummy Runner
I hadn’t really used this tactic before, but Raul completely changed my mind. The ‘Dummy Runner’ style is surprisingly effective, and Raul demonstrates exactly why. He’s skilled at pulling defenders away from their positions and opening up opportunities for his team, even without having the ball himself.
He’s skillful and composed with the ball, and he’s comfortable playing as a second striker or just behind the main forward. While his style might seem unpredictable, he actually excels in the box due to his smart positioning.
10. Roberto Baggio
- Card Version: Italian League Attackers
- Playing Style: Creative Playmaker
If a player handles the ball smoothly, you naturally consider using them as a forward, and Baggio is a prime example of that. He’s an exceptional dribbler and playmaker, and he’s also a very capable finisher.
Positioning him just off a central forward gives him space to dribble and create opportunities, letting him choose the best way to finish. He opens up the field for other players, and his skill makes him a joy to play with.
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2026-02-05 06:43