vs. Rashid

Routing Rashid

All versions of Eagle Spike are punishable on block. However, it may be awkward punishing Rashid’s running Eagle Spike because he bounces off farther, so pay close attention to whether he is transitioning into it from his dash. Most characters can punish his Eagle Strikes by blocking, then dashing, and going for a light or medium attack combo.

At mid range to long range, Rashid’s Whirlwind Shot can be extremely annoying because of its awkward travel arc. It’s essentially an anti-air projectile, so resist jumping over it as if it were a normal projectile (unless you’re close enough to clear its ascent with your jump). Otherwise, you can wait for it to move out of the way and then make your advance into your preferred range.

Rashid doesn’t deal that much damage off of his combos (usually less than 100 damage off of crouching ), but he will have enough advantage after knocking you down to either set you up with a mix-up or frame trap (especially after LP and MP Spinning Mixer). Take note of these combo enders, and vary your quick-recovery to keep him guessing.

One of the most annoying strategies to deal with is his crouching LP Spinning Mixer blockstring. He’s left at -2 afterward, so be prepared to jab him out of whatever he does next. Alternatively, you can hit him with a quick medium-strength attack if you have one that starts up in five frames. It might take some getting used to if you’re not accustomed to retaliating with lights quickly against it, so keep an eye out and try to poke him back as soon as you see him initiate LP Spinning Mixer.