Although the current ST scene is dominated by pace and dribbling, with names like Mbappé, Hamm, and Dembéle being the driving forces, EA FC 26 is also home to many heroes who refuse to let the meta stop them from taking their favorite number 9s to the pitch.
But as you can imagine, not being able to rely solely on outpacing or cutting through defenders demands a lot of adaptation. To help you do just that and climb the ranks in your own terms, here’s how to play with slow strikers in EA FC 26.
Table Of Contents
To Start, What Defines A Slow Striker?
Before we begin, it’s essential to note what we consider a slow striker in FC 26, specifically any player with a tall body type, a heavy feel, and, most importantly, low Agility and Acceleration (around or lower). The low combo then makes it harder for them to gain ground in quick breaks or chain together dribbles effectively when man-marked. To better illustrate it, here are a few popular players who fall into the category:
- POTM, TOTW, and Gold Rare Harry Kane
- Cornerstones and Gold Rare Cristiano Ronaldo
- Gold Rare Robert Lewandowski
How To Play With Slow Strikers In EA FC 26
As you won’t be able to abuse technical dribbling (in most cases), the first things to keep in mind when playing as a slow striker are to rely on their physicality and not overcomplicate things. What do we mean by that? Do not try to clear markers with skill moves or long balls. Instead, play as a Target Forward or False 9 focused on distributing the play/performing short runs against out-of-position defenders. Make sure always to shield the ball if receiving it from behind to set up one-two manual plays or fast breaks.
As you also need to score, rely on simple two-touch shots (one-touch if in the box) and use simple strafe dribbles to create angles. To counter GK movement in 1v1s, just wait or bait their first movement before aiming. Focusing on scoring off short and long crosses is also the play here, so make sure you have wingers or wingbacks with the right PlayStyle for the job (Whipped Pass). When receiving a ground pass in the penalty area, shielding the ball before assisting or shooting can also, in many cases, guarantee a goal.
The Best Formations For Slow Strikers in FC 26
So you can easily link up, we recommend making use of formations featuring either fast wingers capable of sending in within the box passes/short crosses (such as an offensive 433 or 442), or Advanced Forwards/Shadow Strikers/Inside Forwards capable of picking up the play. For the latter, formations like 41212 Narrow, 4411, and 451 can be perfect.
Which Chemistry Style Should You Pick?
We consider Hawk to be the best option when looking to boost your striker in both the False 9 and Target Forward positions in EA FC 26. When equipped, the item boosts their PAC by 3, SHO by 4, and PHY by 3, thus offering you a great all-around increase that does not neglect physicality. After all, slow strikers need to be able to handle a few hits, whether you like it or not. To recap, here are our main tips for playing slow strikers in EA FC 26:
- Rely on your CAM/CMs, fellow ST, and wide players to trigger/create openings for one-twos and unmarked runs.
- Don’t hesitate to cross if the opportunity shows itself, but don’t overcomplicate the finishing.
- Favor the Target Forward role to get the most out of your striker’s physical presence. If you have a high enough pass or a role+ (or ++), however, don’t hesitate to also experiment as a False 9 for a more participative playstyle.
- Always shield the ball (Hold R2/RT) following through passes to set up your runners when in quick transition. Doing it in the box can also work wonders against inexperienced players and set up easy goals.
Now that you know how to awaken your striker’s full potential, make sure to also take a look at The Best Silver Players For All Positions In EA FC 26 Ultimate Team.
