Use 'face off' to highlight the confrontational aspect of a competition or debate. The lawyers will face off in a heated court battle tomorrow.
Pro Tip 2/3
Anticipation Buildup
'Face off' can be used to create suspense about an upcoming encounter. Everyone is waiting to see the two celebrities face off on live TV.
Pro Tip 3/3
Not Literal
The phrase doesn't always mean physical confrontation; it can be used metaphorically. The software giants will face off for market dominance this year.