EA FC 26 makes through-ball passing more demanding than ever. Strong defensive positioning, tighter pressing, and AI interception logic often shut down simple passes before they reach your attacker. While the upcoming v1.1.3 update will ease some CPU over-aggression, players still need reliable techniques to consistently break defensive lines-especially in Champs and Rivals. Here are the three most effective through-ball methods to instantly increase your success rate.

Add Curve to Your Passes

Curved through balls are one of the safest ways to avoid interceptions. Instead of sending the ball straight into congested channels, the curve bends it around defenders, giving your attacker space to accelerate. This works especially well when your winger or striker is making a diagonal run behind the back line. Aim your pass slightly outward, then apply the curve so it swings back into their path. Precision players-those with high Passing, Vision, and Technique-help execute this consistently.

Dinked Pass (Lobbed Through Ball)

One of the highest-percentage passes in FC 26 is the dinked through ball. By lifting the ball just above the defender's reach, you bypass pressure instantly. It's ideal when opponents push a high line or manually step forward to intercept. You need players with good Ball Control and Reactions to make this work smoothly, so upgrading your play makers can make a noticeable difference. When timed correctly, this pass puts your attacker clean through with little defensive recovery time.

First-Time Through Balls

Quick, first-time passes are essential against tight, compact defenses. Instead of holding the ball and letting defenders reset, play the through ball the moment it arrives at your feet. This relies on anticipation and awareness: know where your runner is going before the ball even reaches you. This technique is especially effective in combination play around the box, where one touch can split the entire defensive line.

Additional Tips for Higher Success

Trigger manual runs to create better passing lanes.

Avoid forcing through balls when the defender directly mirrors your striker.

Pass slightly earlier-late passes are intercepted more often due to FC 26's reaction-based AI.

Mix ground, lobbed, and curved passes so opponents can't predict your style. 

Mastering these three techniques will dramatically increase your ability to beat defenses, create scoring chances, and maintain pressure throughout the match.

Tips: if you want your through balls to be more effective, you can buy EAFC 26 Coins  to invest in suitable players. More importantly, coinciding with the Thanksgiving and Black Friday double celebration, mmoexp is offering a limited-time lucky draw to reward users, giving you a 100% chance to win a large coupon and save money when buying coins!