Best 4-3-3 (4) tactic in EA FC 25

With the release of EA FC 25, one of the most exciting changes is the introduction of a new custom tactics system, giving players more control over their formations and strategies. Among the many formations in the game, the 4-3-3 (4) stands out as one of the most effective and versatile ones, perfect for both offense and defense.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best custom tactics for the 4-3-3 (4) formation in EA FC 25, sharing tips on which players to use and how to dominate the game using this setup. Whether you're just starting in Ultimate Team or looking to improve your results in Division Rivals, this formation could be the key to your success.

Note: This article is subjective and solely reflects the writer's opinions.

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Best EA FC 25 4-3-3 (4) tactics

4-3-3 (4) formation as seen in the game (Image via EA Sports)

The 4-3-3 (4) offers a balanced setup that emphasizes both width and central dominance, making it ideal for a flexible and controlled game style. It's perfect for players who like to control possession while having the option to counter-attack with pace down the wings.

Additionally, it has proven to be one of the more meta formations early in EA FC 25, thanks to the changes in player roles and the custom tactics system.

Build-Up Style: Balanced

In terms of build-up, Balanced is the best choice for the 4-3-3 (4) formation. While other options like short passing and counter-attacking are available, Balanced offers the most control over the pace of the game.

It allows you to take your time when building up attacks and ensures you don’t leave yourself vulnerable to counters. This works especially well in FC 25’s early stages, where passing feels different compared to past games, and rushing build-up play can lead to costly mistakes.

Defensive tactics: Depth and Width

For defense, the recommended setting would be to set the Depth to 61. Anything higher than this could leave you vulnerable to counter-attacks, especially since many players like to sit back and hit on the break in this formation.

Lower depth would also mean you’re defending too deep, which limits your ability to press high up the pitch. Keeping it at 61 offers a solid balance where your defense stays organized, while still allowing you to win the ball back early in dangerous positions.

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Best EA FC 25 4-3-3 (4) tactics: Player roles and instructions

Best player roles in the 4-3-3 (4) formation (Image via EA Sports)

The effectiveness of the 4-3-3 (4) heavily depends on the player roles you assign. Here’s how to set up your team for maximum impact:

Defense

• Goalkeeper: A Sweeper Keeper is essential. If you have someone like Ederson, his ability to come off the line and act as an extra defender is invaluable.
• Center-Backs: Both should be standard defenders without pushing up too much.
• Right-Back: Use the Wing Back role but ensure they are set to stay back while attacking. This will give you defensive security, but they can still join the attack when the opportunity arises.
• Left-Back: A Balanced Fullback who contributes in both attack and defense ensures flexibility on the left side.

Midfield

• Center Midfielders: Having two Box-to-Box midfielders is essential here. Players like Thuram, who have the Box-to-Box+ trait, will be able to contribute both offensively and defensively. If you don’t have a player with this trait, use a Playmaker or a second Holding Midfielder instead.
• Center Attacking Midfielder: A Shadow Striker is ideal in this role, getting into advanced positions to support your lone striker. Unlike the Playmaker, who stays back more often, the Shadow Striker will make dangerous runs behind the defense, making your attack more dynamic.

Attack

• Right and Left Wingers: Use the Inside Forward role with a balanced approach. Even without the Inside Forward+ trait, this setup allows your wingers to cut inside and support the striker, creating numerous goal-scoring opportunities.
• Striker: The most effective striker to use early on in FC 25 is Erling Haaland, thanks to his strength and finishing ability. The Poacher role is highly recommended, especially if your striker has the Poacher+ trait, which enhances their ability to score in tight situations.

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Best EA FC 25 4-3-3 (4) tactics: Strategy and in-match tips

While using this tactic, here are some tips for how to approach your matches:

• Build up slowly: Passing is different in EA FC 25, and rushing could lead to turnovers. Take your time when building up play, especially in the midfield, where a well-timed pass could unlock the defense.
• Use your wings: With the Inside Forward role, your wingers will cut inside to support the striker, but they also offer wide options to stretch the defense. Be sure to exploit this space, especially if your opponent is playing with a narrow formation.
• Counter-attacks: The 4-3-3 (4) is excellent for counter-attacking football. Use your midfield and wingers to quickly transition from defense to attack, and don’t hesitate to play long balls into space if your players are making forward runs.
• Defensive support from midfield: Ensure your box-to-box and holding midfielders are positioned to help defensively as well. Your wingers and striker won’t contribute much to defense, so these two midfielders will need to step up when you’re out of possession.

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The 4-3-3 (4) formation in EA FC 25 is shaping up to be one of the strongest and most balanced formations in the game. By utilizing the right custom tactics and player roles, you can dominate both defensively and offensively.

Take your time to master the build-up play and ensure you have the right players in key positions. This formation and tactic are especially useful in the early stages of Ultimate Team or Division Rivals, where building a well-rounded team is essential for success.