EA SPORTS FC 27 introduces a major shift toward more skill-based gameplay, with defending receiving some of the biggest changes. AI assistance has been reduced in Competitive Gameplay, while manual defending has been improved to reward better positioning, player switching, and well-timed tackles. Here's a quick breakdown of the key defensive changes announced in the Gameplay Deep Dive.
ðŸ›¡ï¸ Defending Changes
- Less AI defending: AI-controlled defenders will no longer perform as many automatic tackles or interceptions in Competitive Gameplay. Check the clip ⬇ï¸
- AI focuses on positioning: Defenders will support the play by holding their shape and closing space rather than automatically winning the ball. Check the clip ⬇ï¸
- Rewarded and Better manual defending: You'll need to switch to defenders yourself and time tackles manually instead of relying on AI assistance. Jockeying is faster, and manually controlled standing tackles have a larger reach, making good positioning and timing more effective. Check both clips ⬇ï¸
- Second Man Press adjusted: Teammates apply pressure from slightly farther away, making manual player switching and defending more important. Check the clip ⬇ï¸
- Competitive Gameplay only: These AI defending changes apply only to Competitive Gameplay. Realistic Gameplay changes will be detailed in a future Career Mode Deep Dive.