EA FC 25 Advanced Defending vs. Tactical Defending: Which Is Better?

Defending in EA FC 25 is one of the most crucial aspects of the game, and mastering it can be the difference between victory and defeat. Whether you choose Advanced Defending or Tactical Defending, both have their strengths and weaknesses. In this guide, we’ll break down what these settings are, how they differ, and when to use each to elevate your defending skills.

What Is Tactical Defending in EA FC 25?

Tactical Defending is a more user-friendly approach to defending where the AI assists you in choosing the best tackle type. Here’s how it works:

• When you press the Tackle Button (Circle on PS or B on Xbox), the AI decides whether to perform:
  • A Standing Tackle (for clean challenges), or
  • A Physical Tackle (using the defender’s strength to win the ball).

This assistance ensures you:

• Stay in a better defensive position.
• Avoid making costly mistakes by choosing the wrong tackle type.

Key Limitation of Tactical Defending

In EA FC 25, two new defensive animations—Shrugging and Seal-Out—are not available with Tactical Defending.

• Shrugging Animation: The defender uses their shoulder to nudge the opponent off balance.
• Seal-Out Animation: The defender positions their body between the attacker and the ball to block access and regain possession.

While Tactical Defending simplifies your decisions, it doesn’t allow you to unlock the full potential of these advanced animations.

What Is Advanced Defending in EA FC 25?

Advanced Defending gives you complete control over the type of tackle you perform, allowing you to incorporate the new animations for more physical, strategic play.

How Does Advanced Defending Work?

• Standing Tackle: Use the Circle Button (PS) or B Button (Xbox) for a clean, standard tackle.
• Physical Tackle: Use the X Button (PS) or A Button (Xbox) to perform a more forceful challenge. Your defender will use their whole body to contest the ball.

Why Advanced Defending Is More Powerful

The added Shrugging and Seal-Out Animations are available, giving you an edge:

• Shrugging: Allows you to push attackers off balance when in close contact.
• Seal-Out: Helps you close down space and shield the ball effectively.

The Risk of Advanced Defending

While Advanced Defending offers more control and powerful tackle options, it also:

• Adds an extra decision to your defensive play, which can feel overwhelming.
• Increases the risk of mistiming a tackle, leading to missed challenges and conceding goals.

To use it effectively, you must:

1. Close the space between your defender and the opponent by holding X (PS) or A (Xbox).
2. Once you’re positioned correctly, press the Tackle Button to execute the challenge.

Pro Tip: Timing and positioning are everything with Advanced Defending. Practice staying calm and focusing on locking onto attackers before tackling.

Tactical Defending vs. Advanced Defending

Tactical Defending Is Best For:

• New Players: If you’re still learning to defend, Tactical Defending helps you stay in position and avoid costly mistakes.
• Focus on Structure: Rather than worrying about the right tackle type, you can focus on maintaining a solid defensive shape and game sense.
• Safe Playstyle: It’s reliable and effective without the complexity of Advanced Defending.

Advanced Defending Is Best For:

• Experienced Players: If you already understand defensive positioning, Advanced Defending lets you take full control and use the new animations.
• Aggressive Defenders: Perfect for players who want to apply constant pressure and make physical tackles to win the ball back.
• Maximized Results: When mastered, Advanced Defending gives you an edge by using the Shrugging and Seal-Out animations effectively.

How to Improve Your Defending in EA FC 25

Whether you use Tactical or Advanced Defending, the key to better defending lies in developing strong habits:

1. Focus on Positioning: Always defend the path to the goal and avoid pulling defenders out of position.
2. Stay Calm: Use jockeying (L2 or LT) to hold your stance and wait for the attacker to make a mistake.
3. Practice Regularly: Defensive skills take time to master, so be patient and stay consistent.
4. Train Against Real Opponents: Work with friends or play online to practice Advanced Defending in realistic situations.

Advanced Defending Is Better, But Not Always Necessary

In conclusion, Advanced Defending is the superior option in EA FC 25 because of its greater control and access to advanced animations like Shrugging and Seal-Out. However, it comes with added complexity and a higher risk of mistakes.

If you’re still developing your defensive game, stick with Tactical Defending while focusing on proper positioning and game sense. Once you feel confident, switch to Advanced Defending to unlock its full potential and dominate your opponents.

No matter which setting you choose, patience, composure, and practice are the keys to becoming a defensive wall in EA FC 25!