With the launch of EA Sports FC 26, longtime fans and newcomers alike are adjusting to a revamped gameplay experience. While many tried-and-true strategies from previous editions may feel familiar, the changes in mechanics, physics, and player responsiveness mean that old habits can quickly lead to frustration-especially in competitive modes like Weekend League. To help you stay ahead of the curve, here's a deep dive into five common mistakes players are still making in EA FC 26 Coins and how to fix them.
1. Relying on the Bruiser PlayStyle
In earlier FIFA editions, the Bruiser PlayStyle was a go-to defensive tactic. By leveraging powerful shoulder-to-shoulder tackles, defenders could dominate attackers and regain possession with relative ease. However, in FC 26, this mechanic has undergone significant changes and no longer functions as reliably. Most Bruiser tackles now result in basic standing challenges that are easy to evade if mistimed.
What to Do Instead:
Focus on timed standing tackles rather than relying on physical dominance. Precision is more effective than brute force in FC 26.
Use jockeying (L2/LT) to contain attackers and force them into mistakes instead of committing too early to a tackle.
Incorporate interceptions by reading passing lanes-positioning your defenders correctly often yields better results than shoulder challenges.
2. Overusing Low-Driven Shots
Low-driven shots were once a staple for scoring inside the box, especially for players with high finishing stats. While FC 26 still allows them, over-reliance can make your attacks predictable. Goalkeepers have been improved, and defensive AI now reacts faster to repetitive shot patterns.
What to Do Instead:
Mix your finishing techniques: combine finesse shots, driven shots, and normal shots to keep goalkeepers guessing.
Focus on shot placement and timing rather than power alone. Even moderately powered shots in the far post often outperform heavy low-driven attempts.
Use player-specific attributes: some forwards excel at finesse finishing, while others are better with driven shots-choose accordingly.
3. Ignoring Positioning and Off-the-Ball Movement
In FC 26, players who excel often capitalize on intelligent positioning rather than raw speed or dribbling alone. Many new players still rely heavily on sprinting and manual dribbling to create chances, which can leave them exposed to counterattacks.
What to Do Instead:
Use player runs (L1/LB + R1/RB) to manually trigger teammates' movements, creating passing lanes or opening space.
Pay attention to shadowing defenders: your attackers should move into open areas to maintain passing options and break defensive lines.
Develop a habit of predicting AI movements-anticipate where defenders will shift and exploit gaps with quick passes.
4. Overcommitting Defenders
Aggressive defending used to be a strong tactic in previous editions, but in FC 26 it often backfires. Overcommitting defenders can leave your backline vulnerable, as attackers now have more refined dribbling and faster reaction times.
What to Do Instead:
Prioritize contain and jockey over diving into tackles unnecessarily. Maintaining defensive structure is more effective than chasing every ball.
Use manual player switching (L1/LB) strategically to control the nearest defender without losing overall formation.
Encourage your CDMs and central defenders to cover spaces rather than marking one attacker obsessively, allowing you to react to through balls and quick passes.
5. Failing to Adapt to New Stamina Mechanics
FC 26 introduces subtle changes to stamina and player fatigue, which can drastically impact performance over the course of a match. Many players still sprint continuously or rely on pressing without considering how stamina affects both passing accuracy and tackling.
What to Do Instead:
Manage stamina usage carefully, alternating sprint bursts with walking or jogging to preserve energy.
Rotate players more frequently in competitive modes to maintain peak performance.
Keep an eye on player conditions-fatigued players are less likely to perform skill moves, accurate passes, or successful tackles.
Final Thoughts
Mastering FC 26 requires abandoning outdated habits and adapting to the nuanced changes in gameplay mechanics. Relying on Bruiser tackles, overusing low-driven shots, neglecting off-the-ball positioning, overcommitting defenders, and ignoring stamina management are all common mistakes that can cost you matches. By focusing on timing, intelligent positioning, strategic rotations, and diverse finishing techniques, you can elevate your performance in Weekend League and beyond.
Ultimately, the best FC 26 players aren't necessarily those with the buy FC Coins highest-rated squads-they're the ones who adapt quickly, think ahead, and make every touch count. Avoid these mistakes, refine your gameplay, and you'll notice immediate improvements on the pitch.
