Choose the comparison before playing
Shadow Combat's listing describes player versus player fighting and playing with friends. If you are arranging a friendly bout through the options the game actually provides, agree on what you want to learn. One match might be about recognizing approaches; another might examine how each player handles separation after contact. A clear question makes the result easier to discuss than treating every exchange as proof of overall ability.
Describe events without blaming controls
After a round, explain a specific visible event: an approach began, an attack happened, and the fighters ended in certain positions. This language separates observation from interpretation. Saying that you acted while the opponent was already moving away is more useful than saying the game ignored everything. It also leaves room for both players to notice a different part of the same exchange and compare their accounts.
Keep the agreement within the available mode
The description does not finish its list of play options, so do not assume a private lobby, matchmaking format, or particular rules menu. First establish what the loaded game supports. Then use a small shared exercise within that mode, with breaks for discussion when appropriate. Friendly competition becomes more informative when both players know the question being tested and can point to an actual moment that supports their answer.
Action
A useful multiplayer session can focus on a shared question instead of becoming a vague argument about who improved.