EA FC 26 Patch 1.1.0 Meta Formations: Best Tactics After The R1 Dribbling Nerf

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• EA FC 26 (4-4-2 Formation Guide) | Mastering Two Variations To Balance Defense & Attack

  If you think of a football match as a battle, you'll find that the key to getting more shots actually comes down to a single battle strategy: proper attack and defense.

  So, just as war requires strategic deployment, leading your players to victory in FC 26 requires a sound formation. Different formations focus on different areas, but 4-4-2 undoubtedly offers the best balance between attack and defense.

  So, if you don't have a preferred tactical style, 4-4-2 is your safest bet. Below, we'll explain the principles and techniques for creating and utilizing this formation in FIFA 26.

  

  Overview Of 4-4-2 In FC 26

  Since the development team optimizes each new FIFA game, the mechanics often differ from the previous year, and the most suitable tactics and formations often need to be adjusted accordingly.

  The most notable change in FC 26 is the faster transitions and build-up times, making it more difficult for your dribblers to defend and counterattack against opponents.

  This makes the balanced 4-4-2 formation a top formation. It minimizes pressure in these situations, creates additional counterattacks, and allows for reliable speed and precision.

  While the simplicity of 4-4-2 might initially make you question its effectiveness, when in possession, it naturally transforms into a 4-2-2-2, allowing the wingers to drift inside and create more passing opportunities for the midfielders and forwards.

  If you want a more direct and effective attack, use two strikers as strike partners. In fact, two strikers can create a wide range of offensive strategies, and you can freely combine them to find the best playstyle for your game and team.

  4-4-2 Variant 1: Balanced Offense And Defense

  Most FC 26 formations can be used in more than one style. You can customize it to your desired performance by arranging different tactics and players. For example, 4-4-2, in addition to being balanced offensively and defensively, also offers more offensive uses.

  If you're aiming for a more balanced buildup in a 4-4-2, the first thing to note is that you shouldn't rush into counterattacks. This can easily trigger attacks from the opponent's left, right, and middle midfielders.

  This will force you to quickly join the attack, but your defense is often less robust, leaving many gaps, especially in the midfield.

  Since 4-4-2 allows your players to run close together by mixing in quick passes, you can encourage them to run towards the opponent's penalty area, boosting your defensive rating to 55.

  For player selection, it's acceptable to use the default options for the goalkeeper and center back. For the left and right backs, you can define their center of gravity as defensive, forming a four-man defensive line to prevent counterattacks.

  Next, you need to ensure your first midfielder maintains 100% possession of the opponent's ball, allowing them to quickly track back and prevent counterattacks. Then, you'll deploy your second box-to-box midfielder (B2B) to actively pursue the ball.

  This will allow B2B to join the attack later and then track back as quickly as possible. This player will operate behind the striker during the attack and then move in front of the center back to defend.

  If you want your midfielders to track back quickly, you can quickly drag them back and position them in front of the center back to form a solid defensive line and prevent the ball from being conceded.

  Also, avoid wasting your left and right midfielders on the touchline; instead, encourage them to cut inside into the penalty area to create more scoring opportunities.

  Generally speaking, this formation variant is sufficient for a typical full match. If you find yourself losing control of the game or struggling to put pressure on the opponent, it's best to switch to the more aggressive second formation variant.

  

  4-4-2 Variant 2: Aggressive Attack

  This 4-4-2 variation doesn't change the buildup, as the formation already possesses considerable offensive potential. Instead, your first move is to increase your defensive stat to 61: activating a high defensive line will encourage your players to be more aggressive.

  You can then apply pressure to your players, giving them more power while also allowing them to better control the situation and create more offensive and scoring opportunities through possession.

  In terms of the specific formation personnel, the goalkeeper, first center back, and second center back remain the same in this variation. However, you'll want to balance the left and right backs with the full-backs to allow them to occasionally contribute to the attack.

  To achieve this, you'll want both midfielders to move inside, leaving enough space for the left and right backs to contribute to the attack from the flanks and assist in the buildup.

  For this variation's midfield defensive strategy, the first midfielder still focuses on ball possession and winning the ball, with at least one midfielder able to quickly track back to prevent the opponent's counterattack.

  As for the second midfielder, a box-to-box attacking strategy still helps win the ball while ensuring players can advance, track back, and assist in defense. Forwards are tasked with advancing the attack.

  Comparing And Choosing Between The Two Variants

  In general, both 4-4-2 variants can be used throughout a match, but the second variant can create more scoring opportunities by allowing the left and right backs to occasionally join the attack.

  However, this variant requires a high defensive line to exert greater pressure on the opponent, so if you find it difficult to master, it's best to prioritize variant 1, the mainstream 4-4-2 formation, until you find yourself at a disadvantage and need to switch strategies.

  That's all you need to know about using 4-4-2 formation in FUT 26. If you haven't found a formation that works for you yet, give it a try!

• EA FC 26 Patch 1.1.0 Explained: Massive Dribbling Nerfs, Stronger Defense, And A Broken Meta

  EA FC 26 just released V1.1.0 Update, which has been met with widespread dissatisfaction among players, with some thinking it ruins the game, while others consider it the best update yet. Simply put, it strengthens defense while largely weakening offense, a game-changing change.

  Because the previous meta was strong in offense, most players' teams favored it. This patch weakened offense, turning many meta lineups into jokes. So what exactly caused this shift? Let's take a look.

  

  Defending Improvements

  Following the previous update, FC 26 continues to strengthen defense, which is a step in the right direction. In the previous meta, defense and offense were unbalanced, and ideally, they should be balanced. The defensive improvements are as follows:

  • Man Marking: During kickoff, the defending AI player's marking becomes more aggressive.
  • Sprint Jockey: Slightly increased speed, making manual defending more effective.
  • Tackle: Fixed an issue where the ball would incorrectly bounce back to the attacker after a tackle, and improved the tackle animation.
  • Corner Kick: Increased the number of players dropping back to defend against a Short Corner Kick.
  • Goalkeeper: Improved AI logic.

  Players previously complained that kickoffs and short corner kicks were too overpowered, allowing some players to abuse them and defeat stronger opponents. Officials are indeed working on fixing this issue, but based on player feedback, kickoffs have only been improved but not eliminated. Short Corner Kicks are still effective, but may be more difficult to execute.

  Overall, after strengthening defense, many players feel that opponents can easily shut down the field with counterattacks, while they are unable to break through their defenses, resulting in fewer goals. While the attacking team may have been in an advantageous position, the strengthened defense makes defense more effective than offense, potentially increasing the required FC 26 coins for defensive players.

  

  Passing Improvements

  Passing performance was decent and didn't require any changes per se, but there are still some improvements:

  • Ground and Lofted Through Passes: Better respects player aiming input, with less assist.
  • Low Crosses: Fixed an issue where passes sometimes ended up as regular crosses.
  • First Time Passes: Improved responsiveness.

  Dribbling Nerfs

  The dribbling nerfs were the most controversial aspect of this update, and the specific changes are as follows:

  • Controlled Sprint Dribble: Speed has been reduced.
  • R1 Dribbling Nerf: R1 dribbling has been significantly nerfed.
  • Left Stick Dribbling Nerf: Basic left stick dribbling has become clunky and unresponsive.

  These changes have slowed down the overall attack, making all tacklers' turns, movements, and ball control feel slow and laggy. Holding the R1 button no longer keeps the ball under control. Instead, players frequently kick the ball over a meter, completely losing the ability to close control.

  This change directly alters the game's meta. The previous R1 dribbling technique is essentially useless. To recreate the immediate effect, you must now combine it with L1 Dribbling and switch to R1 Dribbling at the appropriate time. Overall, however, R1 Dribbling has been completely ruined.

  Read More: EA Sports FC 26 (4 Professional Tips): Winning Through Smart Play

  Other Changes

  FUT Mode

  • Added Objective tracking. You can add Objective groups as Favorites and view your progress in the in-game pause menu.
  • Added a preview feature for Evolution consumables, allowing you to preview the upgrade requirements and availability of player items before you own them.
  • Added the ability to sort SBC menu by Newest or Expiry.
  • Added numerous improvements to reward settings, UI display, and market interactions.

  Career Mode

  • Reduced Manager Market email spam and redundant notifications.
  • Fixed logic issues with end-of-season evaluations, Caretaker ratings, and AI career stability.
  • Fixed visual and logical errors in some UI and simulation data.

  Impact Of Patch 1.1.0

  The most significant impact of Patch 1.1.0 is the reduction in the skill gap between players of different skill levels. Before the update, the game demonstrated a high skill gap through precise left-stick dribbling and playmaking, allowing skilled players to win easily. However, after the update, the increased automation of defense and the lack of offensive tools have narrowed the gap between high-skill players and average players.

  However, the post-update gameplay clearly favors players who use Park the Bus, defend with CDMs, and then rely on Skill Moves like Elastico and Mcgeady Cancel Skill to counterattack.

  Patch 1.1.0 is a devastating blow to high-skill players and offensive players, but for more average players, they can completely leave their defense to the AI. As long as their CB and CDM are strong enough, making it difficult for opponents to break through the defense, giving them a chance to compete against high-level players.

  For truly skilled offensive players, while the dribbling nerf means they can't attack with the same freedom as before, they can still create offensive opportunities creatively.

  The R1 dribbling nerf has a game-changing impact and will undoubtedly significantly alter the market. Players who excel at dribbling and defending will be worth more FUT 26 coins. However, you can't say this change is inherently bad, as it allows more players to enjoy the game. However, the correct balance may be to continue strengthening manual defending to counter strong dribbling, rather than simply nerfing a core offensive skill.

• EA FC 26 Coins Farming In Ultimate Team Tips | Master Team Chemistry, SBCs And More

  After a major update focused on player experience, FC 26 now allows you to earn more rewards while enjoying a fun virtual football experience - assuming you master the necessary tricks.

  As the primary source of coins and card packs, Ultimate Team remains the most popular mode for most FIFA 26 players. While it encompasses a variety of gameplay options, the unifying factor is its strong competitive nature.

  Therefore, if you want to earn rewards across all Ultimate Team modes, there are some universal tips you should master that we'll cover below.

  

  Improve Team Chemistry

  The total chemistry value of your team is determined by the number of points each player possesses. Each player can typically earn up to three points, so the overall chemistry value for your team is at least 26, with 33 being the ideal.

  We recommend maximizing your team chemistry because each point of increased chemistry grants a player a bonus attribute, which can significantly impact your chances of winning matches.

  While not having chemistry won't bring negative influence, utilizing all valuable mechanics is something any aspiring EA FC player should strive for.

  If achieving a 3 chemistry value for every player on your team is challenging, we recommend prioritizing improving your core midfielders, forwards, and center backs, or enhancing your star players.

  Of course, you can earn chemistry points by yourself in FUT 26. The more players on your team come from the same club, league, or country, the more points you earn, up to a maximum of 8.

  Complete More SBCs To Earn Rewards

  Earning FC 26 coins requires winning more games in Ultimate Team, which is one of the most direct ways to improve your team's quality. To achieve this, you need to consistently recruit powerful players.

  While there are many ways to earn cards or card packs, completing SBCs is undoubtedly the most enjoyable. SBCs' full name is Squad Building Challenges, are updated in real time based on the latest in-game promotions to offer the best rewards.

  While players awarded by SBCs are untradeable and have a limited lifespan, they can certainly improve your team's strength in a short period. The following SBCs are available recently:

  • Max. 87 Base Icon Upgrade
  • EOAE Busquets
  • Ligue 1 Player of the Month
  • Ratings Reload: Ilan Kebbal
  • Red Bull Aerial Challenge
  • World Tour Silver Superstars League

  Seize The Best Trading Opportunities

  As you know, selling player cards or player items on the market is an effective way to earn coins. However, due to the regular updates to Ultimate Team, the value of some tradable items fluctuates.

  A general rule of thumb is to sell when a player is valuable, or trade for a desired player when the market is low. If you're focused on earning coins, we recommend focusing on Fridays at 7:00 PM.

  New Ultimate Team content is often released around this time, and being upfront about this information can help you predict upcoming market fluctuations and develop the best coin farming strategies.

  Adding Icons Or Hero Players To Your Team

  While this may require you to buy FC 26 coins, as both icons and hero players are worth tens or even hundreds of thousands of coins, the resulting profits are definitely worth it.

  For example, when Icon players are in their natural positions, they gain the most chemistry, providing the most benefits to their team and their teammates of the same nationality.

  Hero players are unique in that, while they also help the team improve through chemistry, their benefits are more league-based, and team building typically revolves around shared leagues.

  Based on this, combining these two types of players will allow you to easily achieve our recommended team chemistry requirements, making it easier to complete SBCs and other Ultimate Team matches, and quickly earn 26 FUT coins.

  The following are the current Icon and Hero players worth recruiting:

  Icon Players:

  • Zlatan Ibrahimović
  • Andrés Iniesta
  • Oliver Kahn
  • Alex Morgan
  • Toni Kroos
  • Caroline Seger
  • Marcelo
  • Giorgio Chiellini
  • Francesco Totti
  • Steffi Jones
  • Sissi
  • Cha Bum-Kun

  Hero Players:

  • Louisa Necib
  • Simone Laudehr
  • Michel Salgado
  • Ivan Zamorano
  • Jill Scott
  • Ricardo Quaresma
  • De Rossi
  • Pablo Aimar

  Utilize Evolutions When They're Suitable

  Evolution is an event in FIFA series. It allows you to evolve specific players' attributes by completing various tasks, upgrading them into more powerful and valuable cards.

  Note that with each new season, Ultimate Team will introduce new evolution slots with specific requirements. While this may limit your player evolutions, the benefits are definitely worth it.

  When selecting players for your current evolution, remember to check whether the available evolutions meet your expectations for that player: for example, addressing weaknesses or enhancing strengths.

  This not only influences how you deploy that player in future matches, but also ensures you have a sound understanding of your Ultimate Team, helping you build a unique and powerful squad.

  Pay Attention To New Changes

  We mentioned two things at the outset: first, Ultimate Team consists of multiple specific gameplay styles; and second, FC 26 has received several updates. Therefore, paying attention to changes in each gameplay style is crucial to improving your win rate.

  Now, to experience Champions mode, simply earn points by achieving a good ranking in Division Rivals, which qualifies you for Champions mode without having to complete additional qualifying matches.

  In addition, a new Challengers mode has been added for players who don't have enough Division Rival points. With exclusive mechanics and rewards, you can experience a more advanced competitive experience similar to Champions, but with a more friendly feel.

  We hope the methods we've introduced here will help you earn enough coins early on. But what you need to remember is not to squander in any way. Even if you really want to exchange for a star player, you must make sure that he can help your team building!

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  If you don't have enough time to implement all the suggestions above, shopping at the trusted FUT 26 coins store IGGM might be a quicker option!

• EA FC 26 Ultimate Team Best Formations | Meta Tactics, Player Roles & Pro Tips

  EA Sports FC 26 is a highly competitive game where both your players and tactics are crucial. Like chess pieces, your players must be positioned and used wisely - to win, you need to be a master tactician, ensuring they perform impeccably both offensively and defensively.

  The most fundamental tactic in FUT 26 is the formation. While there are many formations in the game, it's clear that not all are effective, and some are considered meta choices. Below are a few of the most popular meta formations in the current version, along with their strengths, weaknesses, and player placements.

  

  1. 4-5-1 (Flat) / 4-1-4-1

  Both formations feature a four-defender, five-midfielder setup. These formations are increasingly favored by advanced players.

  Both formations are characterized by their defensive stability. They form a full bank of five and a compact midfield three, resulting in a very tight defensive formation.

  Note that this is not a fast, counter-attacking setup but rather a slow, progressive one, better suited for players who prefer possession-based, methodical play.

  Tactical Arrangement:

  • Build-Up Style: Counter
  • Defensive Approach: Balanced (60)

  Player Roles:

  • ST: Advanced Forward (Attack)
  • LM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • RM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • LCM: Playmaker (Attack)
  • CM: Deep-Lying Playmaker (Defend)
  • RCM: Box-to-Box Midfielder (Balanced)
  • LB: Fullback (Defend)
  • LCB: Defender+ (Defend)
  • RCB: Defender+ (Defend)
  • RB: Fullback (Defend)
  • GK: Goalkeeper (Defend)

  The above setup represents 4-5-1 (Flat). It's essentially the same as 4-1-4-1 and can be easily switched between the two. 4-1-4-1 provides a defensive midfielder, which is easier for players who are used to playing with CDM.

  

  2. 4-4-2 (Flat) / 4-4-1-1

  These two formations feature a back four, a midfield four, and two strikers. They allow for high-pressure play during attack, allowing for a large number of players in the penalty area and creating numerous chances. However, the downside is that there can be gaps between the four midfielders and the two forwards, requiring your FC 26 players to develop strong passing and dribbling skills to connect the play.

  Tactical Arrangement:

  • Build-Up Style: Counter
  • Defensive Approach: Balanced (60)

  Player Roles:

  • ST: False 9+ (Attack)
  • ST: Poacher (Attack)
  • LM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • RM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • CM: Deep-Lying Playmaker (Defend)
  • CM: Box-to-Box Midfielder (Balanced)
  • LB: Fullback (Defend)
  • LCB: Defender (Defend)
  • RCB: Defender (Defend)
  • RB: Fullback (Defend)
  • GK: Goalkeeper (Balanced)

  4-4-1-1 formation is almost identical to 4-4-2 (Flat), but the attacking midfielder in 4-4-1-1 can act as a shadow striker - similar to 4-2-3-1 (Wide) - helping link the midfield while simulating a two-striker system, simulating a two-striker system while also filling gaps in the midfield. These two formations are suitable for attacking FUT 26 players who seek high firepower and possess advanced mechanical skills.

  

  3. 4-2-3-1 (Wide)

  4-2-3-1 (Wide) formation consists of a back four, two defensive midfielders, an attacking midfielder, two wingers, and a striker. The presence of a defensive midfielder is this formation's greatest advantage, greatly improving defensive stability. While attacking opportunities may be slightly less than in a 4-4-2, better defense means more potential wins in the long run.

  Tactical Arrangement:

  • Build-Up Style: Counter
  • Defensive Approach: Balanced (60)

  Player Roles:

  • ST: Advanced Forward (Attack)
  • LM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • CAM: Shadow Striker (Attack)
  • RM: Inside Forward (Balanced)
  • CDM: Deep-Lying Playmaker (Defend)
  • CDM: Box Crasher (Balanced)
  • LB: Fullback (Defend)
  • CB: Defender (Defend)
  • CB: Defender (Defend)
  • RB: Fullback (Defend)
  • GK: Goalkeeper (Defend)

  This formation is one of the most reliable and universal formations. It is highly recommended for most players, especially those who are still in the exploration stage or want to steadily improve their ranking.

  4. 4-1-2-1-2 (Narrow)

  The structure of 4-1-2-1-2 is four defenders, one defensive midfielder, three midfielders in a diamond formation, and two strikers. Its defining feature is a densely packed midfield during defense, effectively protecting the central area. However, its fatal weakness is the empty flanks, making them easily penetrated by opponents who are good at exploiting the flanks.

  Tactical Arrangement:

  • Build-Up Style: Counter
  • Defensive Approach: Balanced (60)

  Player Roles:

  • ST: Advanced Forward (Attack)
  • ST: Advanced Forward (Attack)
  • CAM: Shadow Striker (Attack)
  • CM: Box-to-Box Midfielder (Balanced)
  • CM: Box-to-Box Midfielder (Balanced)
  • CDM: Deep-Lying Playmaker (Defend)
  • LB: Fullback (Defend)
  • CB: Defender (Defend)
  • CB: Defender (Defend)
  • RB: Fullback (Defend)
  • GK: Goalkeeper (Defend)

  This formation works well in lower divisions, where opponents may struggle to exploit its weaknesses. So it is a very effective formation. However, when facing top players, the weakness of the wing will be infinitely magnified, so professional players basically do not use it.

  General Tactical Settings

  Set your defensive depth around 60 - a balanced and flexible setting that can be adjusted according to the match situation. Offensively, we recommend using Counter, as advanced players frequently utilize advanced techniques like L1 triggering, player locking, and creative movement. If you're not adept at these, counter-attacking tactics can better simulate their offensive movements.

  Compared to previous years, FC 26 offers a wider variety of formations, and even professional players are experimenting more - a positive trend for tactical diversity.

  However, while attacking formations like 4-4-2 are powerful, they require a high level of skill. If you're not skilled enough, forcing them into play can lead to losses. Choosing a formation that suits your skill level is crucial. It's best to stick with a formation that works for you and only make minor adjustments, rather than constantly switching tactics.

  For average players seeking the most reliable and effective options, 4-2-3-1 or 4-2-1-3 formations are highly recommended. These formations, with their defensive midfielders, provide the best defensive foundation, statistically resulting in more wins. However, the current defensive system has some flaws, and a back three is easily exploited by opponents, so avoid them.

• EA FC 26 Ultimate Scream | Leaked Players, Pogba SBC, And Best Coin Investment Tips For Halloween Event

  One of EA FC 26's most exciting promotions, Ultimate Scream, will launch on October 24th. This Halloween-themed promotion features more fun-filled player cards than ever before.

  As the event approaches, leakers are releasing more and more information about Ultimate Scream promotion. Currently, leaks are revealing cards related to SBCs. Let's take a look at this leak and how to invest in advance.

  

  Ultimate Scream

  Ultimate Scream first debuted in FIFA 17, but after FIFA 20, Ultimate Scream promotion seemed to have been forgotten. Now, it's back.

  What makes Ultimate Scream promotion so memorable for players is that, in addition to the Halloween-themed player cards, certain players will receive significant attribute boosts for a limited time, such as reaching 99 pace or defense. These attribute boosts activate periodically, and during this period, ordinary cards will struggle to match them.

  When not activated, they behave like regular cards, making this a fun promotion, and you don't have to worry about them disrupting the current meta. Ultimate Scream cards are only temporarily powerful, after all, but each card will still be highly sought after, so by all means, stock up on FUT 26 coins.

  Compared to previous card designs, EA Sports FC 26 Ultimate Scream card design is quite cool. The back features a crescent moon and fangs, reminiscent of werewolves and vampires. While the player list hasn't been leaked yet, I'm highly hopeful Suarez will be on it (after all, he likes to bite).

  Leaked SBCs

  SBCs leaked by Ultimate Scream currently feature Paul Pogba, a midfielder from French Ligue 1 team Monaco. He comes in two versions:

  86 OVR Paul Pogba CDM, Intercept

  • PAC: 76
  • SHO: 78
  • PAS: 83
  • DRI: 85
  • DEF: 86
  • PHY: 84

  86 OVR Paul Pogba CAM, Incisive Pass

  • PAC: 80
  • SHO: 83
  • PAS: 86
  • DRI: 88
  • DEF: 60
  • PHY: 70

  Both cards are quite good, with excellent stats for both offense and defense, but you can only choose one. Intercept + is the best playstyle for a midfielder, but the 86 defense and 76 pace might make him a bit slow in midfield.

  Paul Pogba attacking midfielder version might be better. Firstly, Incisive Pass+ is very good, and it can also help Paul Pogba improve his dribbling and long-range shooting in the game.

  

  Other Leaked Players

  90 OVR Joshua Kimmich CDM and 90 OVR Vinicius Jr. LW will appear on the promo card. The leaker's predicted roster is as follows:

  • 90 OVR Vinícius Jr ST
  • 89 OVR Joshua Kimmich RB
  • 89 OVR Antonio Di Natale LW Icon
  • 88 OVR Marek Hamšík CM Icon
  • 89 OVR Javier Mascherano CDM Icon
  • 89 OVR Tobin Heath RW
  • 88 OVR Jorge Campos GK Icon
  • 88 OVR Sakina Karchaoui LB
  • 87 OVR Peter Crouch CAM Icon
  • 87 OVR Bryan Mbeumo ST
  • 86 OVR Rafael Leão ST
  • 86 OVR Tella CAM
  • 86 OVR Thomas Müller ST
  • 85 OVR Dani Carvajal RB
  • 85 OVR Álex Berenguer CAM
  • 85 OVR Noni Madueke RW
  • 84 OVR Pablo Fornals CM
  • 84 OVR Luis Díaz LW
  • 84 OVR Douglas Costa RW

  How To Invest?

  If you're planning to prepare for this event, such as participating in SBCs or obtaining card packs, you'll need to reserve FIFA 26 coins in advance. Ultimate Scream cards will undoubtedly sell more readily than keystone cards, and their value will be very high. Here are some ways to accumulate coins in advance.

  Bronze Pack

  Opening all Bronze Pack (750 coins) players and selling them, or hoarding Bronze players and waiting for them to increase in demand due to Marquee Matchups or SBCs, is considered time-consuming and inefficient.

  Preview Pack

  Hoping to quickly profit from opening a high-value player (such as Francesco Totti) through the free daily preview packs is theoretically faster, but the success rate is extremely low, and you'll need to wait for the 24-hour cooldown, making it unreliable.

  SBCs

  Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba's SBCs are coming soon. Combined with Lionel Messi, this Barcelona-Inter Miami lineup is poised to be incredibly popular.

  Sergio Busquets, a strong defensive midfielder, possesses Icon Chemistry, effectively becoming the first Icon SBC of the year. This will undoubtedly squeeze the market value of other top-tier cards in the same position, leading to a decrease in demand.

  In addition to this, this week will also see the release of Max 87 Hero SBC, Pogba SBC, Foden SBC, Frederico Rodrigues SBC, and a new Legend SBC.

  These SBCs will significantly increase demand for FOD cards, making investing in them a very safe investment and a guaranteed way to earn a lot of coins.

  Recommended cards to collect are Gold cards with an OVR of 86 or 87. These are the safest investments, as historical data shows they periodically increase in value during SBC releases. However, avoid hoarding cards that cost over 13,000 coins.

  Friday Flipping

  On the first day of Ultimate Scream event, you can also take advantage of the dramatic price fluctuations of newly released, high-demand player cards by flipping.

  The first low in value typically occurs during the peak pack opening period (approximately 1-2 hours after Ultimate Scream releases). Hoarding these cards allows you to profit from the subsequent price rebound. A second low may occur later in the evening, allowing you to sell them again on Saturday morning. This strategy carries a high risk and requires a thorough understanding of EA FC 26 market.

  The Ultimate Scream sale doesn't officially begin until Friday, so if you're looking forward to it, don't miss out, as it's unclear whether it will return in FIFA 27.

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  Ultimate Scream sale promotion is expected to be even more popular than Cornerstone promotion , so have you got your coins ready? Don't worry if you haven't yet, there are cheap FC 26 coins available on IGGM platform!

• EA FC 26 Best Formations Ranked | Top Meta Tactics For World Tour Silver Superstars

  EA FC 26 World Tour Silver Superstars League is currently underway. Due to the limited number of matches played in this mode, only truly skilled players will claim the ultimate rewards.

  There are many excellent Silver players, and building a Silver team doesn't require many EA Sports FC 26 coins. Therefore, building an elite Silver team isn't difficult; the real difference lies in player utilization and formation and tactical planning.

  There are many formations available in the game, and while some have their strengths and weaknesses, some are at a disadvantage in both offense and defense, making them easy targets for opponents. Let's take a look at which formations are currently working well.

  

  Tier S

  4-4-2 (Parallel)

  4-4-2 (Parallel) is the first meta formation in FC 26. This classic formation offers a clear structure and balanced offense and defense, making it a reliable choice for many advance players. With two forwards pressing forward and midfield support behind the defense, it might not be as flexible as formations with a heavy midfield or wide wings at a high level.

  If you're looking for the most stable formation, then 4-4-2 (Parallel) is undoubtedly it. It excels in passing, positioning, and defending, and can even counter some formations.

  4-2-3-1 (Narrow) / 4-2-3-1 (Wide)

  Both are meta formations, using a double defensive midfielder to provide a defensive barrier while three central midfielders create opportunities. However, improper mechanics or player configuration can lead to pressure from the center or penetration from the wings. You can decide based on your FIFA 26 players pool. If you have a good CAM, go with the narrow version; if you only have wingers, go with the wide version. This formation offers excellent passing, positioning, and movement, and is used by players of all levels.

  Tier A

  4-1-2-1-2 (Narrow)

  4-1-2-1-2 formation is designed for players who prefer attacking play over boring football, but it also requires high defensive skills. Due to its compactness, it's one of the most difficult formations to penetrate. The midfield allows for intricate tiki-taka combinations, while the CM drops deep to form a solid defensive line with the CDM in defense.

  4-3-1-2

  4-3-1-2 formation's strengths lie in its midfield control and the pressure it places on the opponent's defense thanks to its two attackers up front. Its weaknesses include a lower commitment from the wingers, which can leave opponents wide or on the counterattack. If you excel at playing short passes in midfield, exploiting central space, and using the right tactical instructions, this formation can bring you victory in Division Rivals and FUT Champions.

  4-2-2-2

  4-2-2-2 formation's double defensive midfielders provide defensive depth, while the two attacking midfielders and two forwards create more attacking opportunities. However, if the CAMs are positioned incorrectly, this can lead to poor coordination between midfield and forwards, and the width down the flanks may be limited.

  If you have several excellent CAMs in your player pool and want more attacking options, this formation is worth trying, but defensive positioning and coverage must be considered.

  4-5-1 (Double CAM)

  The five central midfielders can effectively control the ball and press the opponent's midfield, while also providing numerical support during counterattacks or when in possession. If you have a large midfield and are adept at possession and arranging plays, this formation will be difficult for opponents to handle. However, if your attacking core is weak, your attacking effectiveness will be lower.

  4-3-3 (Attack)

  4-3-3 inherently excels at wide play, pressing, and tactical flexibility. If you prefer to rely on wingers, favor quick counterattacks, or play wide, this version of 4-3-3 may be your preferred choice. However, if your team's main midfielder is more central and weak on the wings, choose this formation carefully, as the other variants are currently less effective than the attacking variants.

  

  Tier B

  • 4-3-2-1: This was the best formation in FC 24, but it's less common in FIFA 26, while it's still a good formation.
  • 4-1-2-1-2 (Wide): Excellent offensively and suitable for possession, but extremely weak defensively.
  • 4-3-3 (1 CDM + 2 CM): This formation lacks a CAM to connect the attack and defense.
  • 4-2-4: Extremely offensive, but weak defensively. It might only be used for desperate counterattacks in the last ten minutes and isn't suitable for full-time use.
  • 4-3-3 (2 CDM + 1 CM): The double defensive midfielders provide strong defense, but the central defenders are too defensive and difficult to participate in the attack.
  • 4-1-4-1: This is a standard, possession-based formation, whose effectiveness depends on the midfield configuration.
  • 4-5-1 (3 CM + LM/RM): Requires a midfielder capable of both attacking and defending. Otherwise, the first variant of 4-5-1 with two CAMs is recommended.
  • 3-5-2: The only reasonably usable three-at-the-back formation, with two CDMs and the ability to have LM/RM track back.

  Tier C

  • 3-4-3
  • 5-2-3
  • 5-4-1
  • 5-1-2-2
  • 3-4-2-1
  • 3-1-4-2
  • 4-1-3-2

  Due to the manual defending requirements in FC 26, defending is more challenging than ever, and three- and five-at-the-back formations lead to numerous goals conceded. Overly forward play in both attack and defense exposes weaknesses to the opponent. As the only exception is an exceptionally defensively sound formation, relying heavily on the movement of the full-backs.

  The above is a brief review of EA FC 26 formations. However, formations aren't a one-size-fits-all approach. Maximizing their effectiveness depends heavily on your player pool, operational habits, and player instructions.

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  Using Meta formations, you can deploy the right players in key positions. Besides high stats for pace and defense, you'll also need a suitable Playstyle, or even Playstyle+. You can buy reliable and affordable FUT 26 coins on IGGM to enhance your formation.