How to defend in FIFA 25

Most players do not know how to defend in FC 25, that is the reason for this post but before I go into details, I would like to share my experience as an addiction eFootball player (formerly PES). 

For years, I played football video games with the mindset that they are all the same. Be it FIFA or eFootball, I was thinking it's a general concept which is hold a button and chase the ball.

However, when I finally made the switch to FIFA, I discovered that I was wrong. I assumed I could just plug in and play, and I would be fine. Well, I was not fine. I was always been defected like a newbie.

That was when I began paying deep attention to the game defending options. "Legacy defending," "Tactical defending," and "Advanced defending." At first, I just toggled between them with the hope of playing better. I had no idea what any of them actually meant.

Legacy actually felt simple because it is the closest to what I was used to. But Tactical? It felt like a chore. The gameplay wanted me to manually position defenders, time tackles, and think defensively, not just hold a button.

I remember losing 5-0 to a player who barely go for attack. That loss hit differently because it revealed the gap between what I thought I knew and what I actually understood.

Now, let’s take a deep dive into a comprehensive, step-by-step tutorial that will guide you through the essential techniques and strategies needed to defend effectively in EA Sports FC 25.

Step by step instructions on how to defend in FC 25

• Know the Difference: Defending Outside vs. Inside the Box

The first thing you need to understand is that defending changes drastically depending on where the ball is on the pitch.

When your opponent has possession outside your penalty area, your main goal is to win the ball back as soon as possible. This is the zone where you can afford to apply pressure, quick interceptions and well-timed tackles, but never at the expense of leaving gaps behind.

Once the play moves into your penalty box, everything changes. Your main objective now is to prevent your opponent from scoring.

Avoid diving in or rushing your opponent, this can lead to penalties or easy scoring chances. Instead, focus on staying in front of the attacker, blocking shots, and forcing them into less threatening positions.

• Don’t Be Too Aggressive

A common mistake among newer players is being overly aggressive. While it might feel instinctive to rush in and try to win the ball immediately, this often leaves you exposed or out of position.

Stay composed. Use the jockey mechanic (hold L2/LT) to keep your player in front of the attacker. Move deliberately, do not sprint or dash around unless absolutely necessary. Patience is often your best weapon.

• Master the Jockey Movement

Jockeying is one of the most effective tools for defending, especially in tight areas. However, it must be used correctly:

Don’t move too fast : Quick movements can make you lose control and open up space for your opponent.

Stay goal-side : Always position yourself between the ball and the goal.

Use your body : Let your player’s positioning do the work rather than diving in with risky tackles.

• Only Tackle When Necessary

Timing your tackles is crucial. Make a tackle only when you are close enough to your opponent and confident that you will win the ball. Missed tackles not only give your opponent a free pass but also take your defender out of the play.

• Switch to Advanced Defending

If you are serious about improving your defense, I recommend using Advanced Defending over Tactical or Legacy options. This gives you more control over your tackles and allows for smarter, more realistic defensive actions. Personally, this is the style I use, and it has made a significant difference in my gameplay.

Conclusion 

By staying composed, positioning yourself wisely, and using your tools effectively, you will find yourself conceding fewer goals and winning more matches. Stick to the basics, keep practicing, and soon you will defend like a pro.