Tactics: mentality, style and pressing
Updated on November 4, 2026
Squad quality matters most, but the right tactic is worth a few points per season. The effects are small and they add up. These are the numbers the game really uses. For choosing a formation, see the dedicated guide.
Mentality
It goes from very defensive to very attacking, in five levels. Each level above balanced raises attack by 5% and lowers defence by 3.5%; each level below does the opposite. An attacking mentality also gives the opponent a 40% greater chance of catching you on the counter.
Playing style
| Style | Midfield | What changes in chances |
|---|---|---|
| Balanced | Normal | No bias |
| Possession | +6% | 20% more build-up play and 40% fewer counters |
| Counter-attack | −6% | Twice as many counters, which also create slightly better chances |
| Direct | −3% | 60% more crosses |
The midfield decides who has the ball. That's why possession gives you more of it, and counter-attacking gives it up on purpose. A weaker team usually gains more from counter-attacking, especially against high pressing. Direct play pays off when the squad has good crossers and a striker strong in the air.
Pressing
- High press: midfield 4% stronger and 3% fewer opposition shots. In exchange, the team tires 20% faster and the opponent gets 40% more counters.
- Medium press: no bonus and no cost. It's the safe starting point.
- Low block: defence 3% stronger, midfield 3% weaker and 15% less fatigue. With a defensive mentality, it cuts opposition shots by another 5%.
Fatigue is the hidden cost of the high press. In weeks with matches on Sunday and Wednesday, it can cost more than it earns, because tired players perform worse and get injured more.
During the match
In live matches, you can change the approach and pressing at any time. AI managers tend to go more attacking when losing at 70 minutes and more defensive when winning by one goal at 80. Doing the same is a good start:
- Losing in the second half? Raise the mentality and swap a defensive midfielder for a forward.
- Winning by one goal late on? Lower the mentality and switch to a low block, which also tires the team less.
- Take off players with low fitness. A rested reserve often performs better than an exhausted starter.
Weekly training
The training focus is also a tactical decision. Tactical makes the team 2% stronger in matches, with slightly less individual development. Technical makes players develop 10% faster. Physical cuts veterans' decline by 30%, but raises injury risk. Rest greatly improves recovery between matches and lowers development by 15%.