Defending effectively in EA FC 25 is important for maintaining control of the game and preventing opponents from scoring. Mastering defensive techniques such as jockeying, minimizing tackling, using second man press, and precise player switching can significantly enhance your ability to fend off attacks.

Use the Jockey Button

The jockey button (L2 on PlayStation, LT on Xbox) is a fundamental tool in defending effectively in EA FC 25. It allows your defender to take an agile, low stance that will keep him in full control and place him in a better position to stay in front of attackers, read their next moves, and be in a position where he can intercept the ball without overcommitting. This method keeps you near but at a safe distance, about a meter from the attacker, where you can easily respond to changes in direction. Merging jockeying with the sprint button binds-R2 on PlayStation and RB on Xbox- your defender will cover considerable distances in very little time, which is extremely helpful against pacey wingers. The bad thing about using this bind is that it decreases the agility of your player and thus makes him struggle with sharp turns. It follows, then, that jockeying should be used sparingly, balancing between tight control and knowing when to engage the sprint to shut space effectively.

Minimize Tackling

Tackling should be used as a last resort in EA FC 25 since over-reliance on the tackle button often leads to fouls, missed challenges, or misplaced defensive positioning. Sometimes, the jockey button on its own is often enough to win the ball back, especially if you are close enough to use body positioning to shield the ball away from the opponent. Only use the standing tackle-bound O on PlayStation and B on Xbox-if you are completely certain you can cleanly win the ball without risk. Sliding tackles (Square on PlayStation, X on Xbox) are an even greater risk because, if mistimed, they can leave your defender on the ground and out of commission, leaving your goal in direct danger. Slide tackling should only be performed in absolute emergency situations, such as cutting off an important through ball or in instances where there's little to no other option and when a last-ditch effort is required to stop the attacker.

Second Man Press

The second-man press feature in EA FC 25 allows you to apply additional pressure on the ball carrier by bringing in another defender using R1 on PlayStation or RT on Xbox. It's useful in any case you want to raise your defensive game but more so in crucial areas, such as those just outside the box, where decisions have to be made in very little time. This can, however, leave your defenders out of position if overused, creating gaps that opponents can play through. The key is in the usage of the second-man press-apply only when you are confident the added pressure will force the attacker into a mistake or when other defenders are well-placed to cover space left behind. Abuse of this means your defensive line is in tatters, and it's only good for tactically deploying your players without compromising on your formation.

Player Switching

Mastering player switching is one of the most important skills in EA FC 25 for maintaining control of your defensive line. The default switch (L1 on PlayStation, LT on Xbox) offers a quick way to change defenders, usually to the one closest to the ball. However, this automatic switching isn’t always ideal, as it doesn’t consider the broader defensive needs or positioning of the game situation. Using the right joystick for manual switching allows you to have greater precision in selecting the defender that is best positioned to deal with the threat. This precise control is critical, especially in tight situations where every second counts; manual switching helps you preemptively close down attackers, cover dangerous passing lanes, and maintain overall defensive stability, significantly reducing the risk of being caught out of position .

Cover Passing Lanes

In EA FC 25, a key defensive strategy is to focus on intercepting passes and controlling spaces rather than constantly pressing the ball carrier. Through balls and quick passes are particularly dangerous, often leading to one-on-one situations with your goalkeeper. To mitigate this, position your defenders strategically to cut off these passing lanes. This involves reading the game, anticipating the attacker’s runs, and adjusting your positioning accordingly. Instead of chasing the ball aggressively, switch to a defender who can cover the potential threat area, allowing you to block passing routes and prevent attackers from finding space behind your defense. This approach helps maintain your defensive structure while minimizing the risk of being caught off guard by quick, incisive passes.

PlayStyles and Defensive Tactics

EA FC 25 introduces PlayStyles tailored to boost your defensive tactic and make your players perform more effectively in whatever situation the game throws out. For example, the "Block" type increases the chances of your defender blocking shots of an opponent- a very important PlayStyle, especially for the center backs who are given shots inside the box all too often. The "Jockey" PlayStyle gives a big boost to your defender while jockeying with increased speed and agility for closer coverage against attackers who make fast directional changes. The "Intercept" PlayStyle increases your intercept rate of passes to cut off critical ones and gain possession again. With these defensive PlayStyles, you will be able to make huge differences in your overall defensive performance by picking players, as this will allow you to shape your team's defensive capability to fit into your strategy and adapt to in-game situations.

Summary

Effective defending in EA FC 25 requires a balanced approach, combining patience, anticipation, and strategic use of controls. Focusing on positioning, controlling spaces, and choosing the right moments to tackle or apply pressure, you can maintain a strong defensive line. Moreover, utilizing PlayStyles that enhance defensive capabilities further customizes your approach, guaranteeing that your defense remains adaptable and resilient against various offensive threats.