6 Best Tricks to Score More After the Patch in EA Sports FC 26
The latest gameplay update has changed how attacking works in EA Sports FC 26. Defenders recover faster, interceptions feel stronger, and simple, predictable play doesn’t cut it anymore. If you want to score consistently post-patch, you need to use the right mechanics. Having enough cheap FC 26 Coins can also be very helpful.
Whether it’s passing, dribbling, crossing, or finishing, high-level players are adapting—and so should you. Here are six of the most effective attacking tricks to help you create more chances and convert them.
1. The Swerve Through Pass
A normal through ball works in open space. But when defenders are positioned well, you need something more precise.
That’s where the swerve through pass comes in.
This variation adds curve to your through ball, allowing it to bend around defenders instead of traveling in a straight line. It’s especially effective when:
Playing a pass between two center-backs
Sending a winger in behind a fullback
Threading the ball into tight channels
The curve helps guide the ball into open space instead of directly into a defender’s path.
For best results, use players with the Incisive Pass PlayStyle. While anyone can attempt the pass, it becomes significantly more accurate and dangerous with the right trait. Many pro players relied on this mechanic in recent tournaments because it consistently breaks defensive lines.
Use it situationally—not every time—but when you need to split a compact backline, it’s deadly.
2. The Trivela Low Driven Shot
Low-driven shots remain one of the strongest finishing mechanics in FC 26. But after the patch, combining them with a Trivela-style outside-foot animation makes them even more effective.
To perform a low-driven shot:
Press the shoot once for power.
Tap shoot quickly a second time.
To enhance it with a Trivela effect:
Hold L2 (LT on Xbox) while executing the low driven shot.
This creates a powerful, low, angled strike that’s extremely hard for goalkeepers to react to—especially inside the box.
Important tips:
Use at least 2 to 2.5 bars of power.
Make sure your attacker has the appropriate shooting PlayStyle (such as Game Changer or equivalent finishing boosts).
Avoid underpowering the shot, or you may trigger a weaker flair animation.
Inside the penalty area, this is one of the most reliable ways to finish.
3. Manually Trigger Runs (Especially With Midfielders)
One of the biggest mistakes players make is relying entirely on attacking AI.
In FC 26, you must manually trigger runs.
Press L1 (LB on Xbox) while aiming at a player to send them on a forward run. While many players already trigger strikers and wingers, here’s the key trick:
Trigger your central midfielders to get in behind.
Why?
When a center mid makes a forward run:
The defensive line drops deeper.
Passing lanes open up.
Space increases for your striker and wingers.
Even if you don’t pass to the midfielder, their movement manipulates the defensive shape. That extra space can be the difference between a blocked shot and a clear opportunity.
If you’re struggling to score, start involving midfield runners more aggressively.
4. The Flare Nutmeg Pass on the Wing
When attacking down the wing, defenders expect either a cross or a cutback. That’s why the flare nutmeg pass is so effective—it’s unpredictable.
To perform it:
Hold R1 + L1 (RB + LB on Xbox).
Flick the right stick left or right (requires a four-star skiller).
As the animation begins (not after it ends), immediately press pass.
The key is timing. You pass during the start of the animation.
What happens:
Your player slightly stops and shifts direction.
The defender often hesitates or overcommits.
You gain improved vision and a passing angle.
This move is perfect when cutting inside from the wing or slipping a ball into your striker near the box. High-division players use it because it disrupts defensive timing and creates cleaner passing lanes.
5. The Low Driven Cross (With Whipped Cross PlayStyle)
Headers are inconsistent post-patch. Instead of floating crosses into crowded areas, focus on low-driven crosses into your striker’s feet.
To perform:
Hold R1 + L1 (RB + LB).
Press the cross once for power.
Tap the cross again quickly.
The ball will travel low and fast across the box.
However, this mechanic is heavily dependent on the Whipped Cross PlayStyle. Without it, the cross may lack the necessary curve and speed. With it, the ball bends around defenders and lands cleanly at your attacker’s feet.
This is especially strong during counterattacks when defenders are retreating toward the goal. Instead of aiming for a header, play it low for a first-time finish.
6. The Lofted Through Pass
If you’re still relying mainly on ground through balls, you’re limiting your attack.
The lofted through pass lifts the ball off the ground, making it significantly harder to intercept.
To perform:
Press through pass once for power.
Tap it again quickly.
The second tap turns it into a lofted through ball.
Because the ball travels slightly above ground level:
Defenders struggle to block it.
It bypasses leg interceptions.
It reaches forwards in behind more consistently.
Many experienced players now use lofted through passes more frequently than standard ones because they’re simply more reliable in tight defensive situations.
Final Thoughts
The latest patch has made defending stronger—but that doesn’t mean scoring is impossible. It just requires smarter mechanics.
To recap:
Use swerve through passes to bend around defenders.
Master the Trivela low driven shot inside the box.
The trigger midfielder runs to manipulate defensive lines.
Surprise opponents with flare nutmeg passes.
Use low-driven crosses instead of relying on headers.
Prefer lofted through passes for safer progression.
High-level attacking in FC 26 is about variety and timing. If you combine these six tricks into your gameplay, you’ll notice more chances, cleaner build-up play, and most importantly, more goals.
Adapt to the patch. Use the right mechanics. And turn every attack into a real threat. Having a lot of FC 26 Coins can also be very helpful.