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In FIFA 23 Ultimate Team, a player can switch between 5 different tactical setups depending on the game situation. This guide provides the best custom tactics for every in-game scenario. Whether a team is holding on to a slim lead, pushing for a last-minute winner, or everything in between, these custom tactics that are used by pro players will win matches if used correctly.
4 Ultra Defensive
Formation: 5-2-1-2 Defensive Style: Balanced with 45 width and 65 depth Offensive Style: Balanced build-up, direct chance creation with 45 width Player position: 4 on players in the box, 1 on corners, and 1 on free kicks
The 5-2-1-2 formation is the best defensive formation in the game if set up correctly. While 5 at the back formations are often frowned upon, this setup allows a solid defensive core with a counter-attacking threat. Which is perfect for holding onto a slim lead and closing out a tight match.
The player instructions are as follows if any players or instruction options are not mentioned leave them on default:
RWB and LWB: Join the attack and overlapping runs Both CMs: Stay back while attacking and cover center CAM: Stay Forward
These custom tactics provide a really strong defensive core that is difficult to break down with the 3 center-backs being covered by the 2 central midfielders. Look to the wingbacks to get around the opponent’s press and play up the field. Try to keep possession and play it into the center-attacking midfielder to create chances. Fast strikers can then punish an opponent who is too far up the pitch. But the main focus is tucking in with a narrow defense to stop an opponent and hold a lead to win the match.
3 Defensive
Formation: 4-2-2-2 Defensive Style: Balanced with 45 width and 45 depth Offensive Style: Balanced, direct chance creation with 60 width Player Position: 4 on players in the box, 2 on corners, and 2 on free kicks
The 4-2-2-2 formation has been powerful in many past FIFA games and this year is no different. A rigid back 4 being covered by 2 central defensive midfielders gives a really strong defensive core. However, the 2 central attacking midfielders can create chances by finding pockets of space in the opponent’s defense and creating chances for the 2 strikers.
The player instructions are as follows if any players or instruction options are not mentioned leave them on default:
LB and RB: Stay back, overlapping runs One CDM: Cut passing lanes, stay back while attacking, and cover center The other CDM: Cut passing lanes and cover center RAM and LAM: Come back on defense and get in the box for crosses STs: get in behind, stay central, stay forward
This setup works well best for teams looking to defend a lead or survive pressure from an opponent. Having one CDM with defensive instructions and the other being more balanced allows quick build-up play from defense into attack. Teams with fast strikers that want to get in behind the defense excel with this setup. Both attacking midfielders will come back to aid in defense when required creating a 4-4-2 defensive structure but can quickly attack when given the chance.
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Keep in mind that the balanced custom tactic is not in this guide as it uses the formation that the team is built in and has restrictions due to this. The 4 available options provide more than enough strategic adaptations.
2 Attacking
Formation: 4-3-2-1 Defensive Style: Balanced with 44 width and 64 depth Offensive Style: Balanced build-up, direct chance creation with 56 width Player position: 5 on players in the box, 2 on corners, and 2 on free kicks
The 4-3-2-1 formation is a great well-rounded attacking option in FIFA 23; it can lead to domination in the midfield and control of the game if played right. Take advantage of short quick passing between the 3 midfielders to control possession. It doesn’t really on the best players as all midfielders can do simple short passes This setup is great at the start of a match to provide pressure on an opponent. It is naturally quite a narrow formation, so 56 width provides a bit of space while taking advantage of the formation’s strengths.
The player instructions are as follows if any players or instruction options are not mentioned leave them on default:
LB and RB: Stay back while attacking and overlap CM and RCM: Stay back while attacking, cover center LCM: Cover wing RW: Come back on defense ST: Stay Central LW: Stay Central
With these custom tactics, the 4-3-2-1 defends similarly to a 4-4-2 formation. The LCM covers the left-hand side and operates like an LM without the ball and the RW does the same on the other side. This provides a strong defense with the midfield covering a strong back 4. However, it comes alive in attack with the 3 forwards playing off the midfielders. Look to play short quick passes to break down a defense while being able to handle an opponent’s counter-attack.
1 Ultra Attacking
Formation: 4-2-4 Defensive Style: Constant Pressure with 50 width and 80 depth Offensive Style: Fast build-up play, direct chance creation, and 50 width Player positioning: 7 on players in the box, 4 on players in the box, and 4 on free kicks
The 4-2-4 formation is the ultimate gung-ho tactic in FIFA 23. This is best when chasing a game in the dying embers of a match. Only really use it when chasing a last-minute equalizer or winner as it throws all players forward and leaves the defense exposed. However, it puts pressure on an opponent who will need a very strong defense to stop such an attacking focus.
The player instructions are as follows if any players or instruction options are not mentioned leave them on default:
LB and RB: Join the attack with overlapping runs LW and RW: Get in the box Both STs: Stay central, get in behind, stay forward
This formation doesn’t require too many attacking instructions as it is inherently so attack-focused. Always look for forward passes but don’t over-force and lose the ball as the defense is exposed. Attacking fullbacks with the wingers will cause overloads out wide which can be exploited to create endless chances. The strikers will be looking to make runs and will be very direct toward the goal. The two midfielders need to stay in the middle of the pitch to create more space and passing opportunities. This setup will score goals if played correctly, perfect for when players need a goal.
FIFA 23 is available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
