The latest patch has significantly changed the gameplay of FIFA 23. To be successful again, fresh tactics and formations are needed. We will show you how FIFA pros are currently playing and which formations they are using.
What has the patch changed? The new Title Update 4 has altered quite a bit of the gameplay of the football simulation. The most important changes are:
- The overly strong Trivela shot has been nerfed.
- Goalkeepers have been improved and position themselves smarter.
- The Lengthy meta has been significantly weakened.
A detailed summary of the changes in Title Update 4 can be found here:
Why you should try new formations: After so many changes to the gameplay and meta of FIFA 23, it is advisable to adjust your formation to the tactics. Not every formation that worked wonderfully a few weeks ago has to lead to success now.
In detail, we show you the following 3 formations:
- 5-2-1-2
- 4-2-2-2
- 4-2-3-1
3 formations and tactics of the pros after the update
What are these formations? We show you 3 formations of FIFA pros that each pursue different playing approaches and can provide a foundation for your teams. So check which tactic suits your playing style and cards.
5-2-1-2 – Very strong defensively, but still dangerous
This is what the formation is about: The five-man defense provides defensive stability and offers many attacking options with offensive full-backs. In addition, you have a strong attack with 2 forwards and an offensively oriented midfielder.
However, you should first summon the full-backs into the attack with quick tactics (D-pad) during the match, instead of using them offensively from the start. This prevents you from offering too many free spaces at the back.
Use this tactic and instructions: The YouTuber and FIFA pro Mirza Jahic (via YouTube) relies on these settings:
- Defensive
- Balanced
- 50 Width
- 71 Depth or 45 if it is too offensive
- Offensive
- Balanced
- Runs into the box
- 71 Width
- Players in the box: 7
- Corners: 1
- Free kick 1
Also change the following instructions (all others remain at default)
- RB and LB: Stay back on attacks and running style: Overlapping
- Offensive CM: Stay back on attacks, for crosses into the box, all freedoms
- Defensive CM: Stay back on attacks, for crosses into the box, cover the middle
- CAM: Stay forward
- Striker 1: Overrun defense, stay forward
- Striker 2: Overrun defense
4-2-2-2 – Balanced formation with tight offense
This is what the formation is about: The 4-2-2-2 is a very balanced setup that currently works really well in FIFA 23. It offers a stable four-man defense and, with two offensive midfielders and a double-striker setup, brings a strong and compact attack.
Use this tactic and instructions: STYLO from the Fokus Clan (via YouTube) relies on these settings:
- Defensive
- Balanced
- 45 Width
- 55 Depth
- Offensive
- Balanced
- Direct passes
- 50 Width
- Players in the box: 5
- Corners: 3
- Free kick 3
Also change the following instructions (all others remain at default)
- RB and LB: Stay back on attacks
- Both CAMs: Strengthen defense
- Both CDMs: Stay back on attacks, cover the middle
4-2-3-1 – Achieving success with stable defense
This is what the formation is about: The 4-2-3-1 is a slightly more defensive formation whose specialty is to counterattack the opponent. You only play with one striker, who is, however, supported by 3 offensive midfielders.
The best approach with this formation is to manage the game and switch to fast attack at the right moment.
Use this tactic and instructions: STYLO from the Fokus Clan (via YouTube) uses, in addition to the 4-2-2-2, the 4-2-3-1 and the following settings:
- Defensive
- Balanced
- 45 Width
- 55 Depth
- Offensive
- Balanced
- Direct passes
- 50 Width
- Players in the box: 5
- Corners: 3
- Free kick 3
Also change the following instructions (all others remain at “default”)
- RB and LB: Stay back on attacks
- Central CAM: Strengthen defense, for crosses into the box
- Outer CAMs: Strengthen defense
- Both CDMs: Stay back on attacks, cover the middle
- Goalkeeper: Catching crosses
Of course, there are many other formations that could be worthwhile depending on the playing style you pursue.
If you want to know which “Path to Glory” cards are getting better during the currently ongoing World Cup, then check it out here:
FIFA 23: PTG-Tracker – These “Path to Glory” players can receive upgrades
