This matchup is still in development, especially with the rise of Sheik’s RTC.

This will be a lot more general advice, as Leffen feels that is very useful to have against Sheik

At 0%

The base of the matchup is that at low %s Sheik cannot knock Fox down.

<aside> 🦊 Sheik is not an immediate threat at 0%.

</aside>

Sheik’s Grab is strong, and all she really has at low%

• The only danger at 0% is her grab
• It can kill you if the enemy tech chases you on reaction
• If not RTCing, it’s just a combo starter and you can get out of it.
  • If you get grabbed in the middle of the stage.

At 0%

• Sheik’s will go for…
  • Grab
  • Needles (if already charged)
    • Landing these needles is huge for her.
    • To beat needles, shield grounded ones and pay attention to the range she jumps at, have her whiff them.
  • Up-Tilt
    • It can anti-air Fox
    • Very hard to CC punish
    • Can combo into grab, D-Smash, or another tech chase.
  • Spaced aerial, or spaced needles
    • The aerials typically lead to mixups, rather than combos.
    • The needles are typically saved for needle > grab to beat CC.

<aside> 🦊 Sheik’s spaced aerials are low risk, low reward. Sheik can’t threaten aerials and grab at the same time, this is a big problem for her.

</aside>

Reacting to where Sheik is on the stage (whether she’s grounded, jumping, or on platform) is a big part of the matchup.

• Knowing whether or not she can grab you is key

Low Percents

Knockdown %s for Sheik

• 20%
  • Dash attack
  • D-smash