The 4213 formation has long been a favorite in FC 25 Ultimate Team for its incredible balance between attacking versatility and defensive solidity. After the latest gameplay patch, this formation has become even more effective due to the improvements in attacking AI and passing mechanics. If you’re looking to dominate both offensively and defensively, the 4213 is a must-try.
This guide will walk you through the most effective custom tactics for the 4213, including two different variations to suit your playstyle and in-game scenarios. Let’s dive into why the 4213 is one of the most meta formations in FC 25 and how you can set it up for success.
Why the 4213 Works So Well Post-Patch
The latest patch introduced significant improvements to passing accuracy and attacking AI. Through balls, in particular, have become insanely overpowered, making formations with attacking width and dynamic movement even more effective. The 4213 thrives in this meta because:
- It offers excellent spacing with two CDMs providing defensive coverage while allowing the CAM, wingers, and striker to work seamlessly in attack.
- The improved AI movement ensures consistent inside runs and positioning.
- Balanced width from overlapping fullbacks and wingers creates dynamic attacking opportunities, reducing predictability.
First Variation: Balanced and Effective
This variation of the 4213 focuses on balanced play, making it ideal for most situations. It’s built for players who prefer stability without sacrificing attacking options.
Custom Tactics
- Defensive Style: Balanced
- Width: 50
- Depth: 50 (adjustable based on playstyle, but lower depth is recommended to counter through balls).
- Build-Up Play: Balanced
- Chance Creation: Short Passing
- Width: 50
- Players in Box: 6
- Corners and Free Kicks: 2
Player Instructions
- Striker:
- Stay Central
- Get In Behind
- Stay Forward
- CAM:
- Stay Forward
- Free Roam
- Get Into the Box for Cross
- Left and Right Wingers:
- Cut Inside
- Get In Behind
- Balanced Support
- CDMs:
- Stay Back While Attacking
- Cover Center
- Fullbacks:
- Balanced Attack
- Overlap
- Goalkeeper:
- Comes for Crosses
- Sweeper Keeper
Why This Works
- Balanced Depth: The 50 depth ensures you’re not too vulnerable to the overpowered through balls while still maintaining enough pressure to force mistakes.
- Fullbacks in Attack: Having your left and right backs on balanced attack allows you to maintain width and create overlaps, essential for breaking down compact defenses.
- Dynamic CAM Role: The CAM becomes a key playmaker, linking the midfield and attack while providing options for quick passes and incisive runs.
Second Variation: High-Pressure, Aggressive Play
This variation is for players who enjoy a high-press, aggressive style of play. It’s slightly riskier but can be devastating if you dominate possession and pin your opponent back.
Custom Tactics
- Defensive Style: Balanced
- Width: 50
- Depth: 70 (can be lowered if you struggle with through balls).
- Build-Up Play: Balanced
- Chance Creation: Direct Passing
- Width: 50
- Players in Box: 7
- Corners and Free Kicks: 2
Player Instructions
- Striker:
- Stay Central
- Get In Behind
- Stay Forward
- CAM:
- Stay Forward
- Free Roam
- Get Into the Box for Cross
- Left and Right Wingers:
- Stay Wide
- Get In Behind
- Balanced Support
- CDMs:
- One on Stay Back While Attacking and Cover Center
- One on Deep-Lying Playmaker and Balanced Attack
- Fullbacks:
- Stay Back While Attacking
- Overlap
- Goalkeeper:
- Comes for Crosses
- Sweeper Keeper
Why This Works
- High Depth: The 70 depth keeps constant pressure on your opponent, forcing turnovers high up the pitch. This is particularly effective if you’re confident in your defending.
- Dynamic Wingers: Setting your wingers to stay wide creates natural width, stretching your opponent’s defense and opening up spaces for your CAM and striker.
- Deep-Lying Playmaker: Adding a playmaker CDM ensures smooth transitions from defense to attack, even when under pressure.
For more insights to formation and gameplay in FC 25 follow InceptionFC on YouTube.
Tips for Success with the 4213 Formation
- Master Through Balls: With through balls being so overpowered post-patch, learning when and where to execute them is critical. Look for diagonal runs from your wingers or CAM.
- Use Quick Passes: The short passing tactic emphasizes quick, precise ball movement. Utilize first-time passes to break down compact defenses.
- Adjust Depth: If you notice your opponent is spamming through balls, consider lowering your depth to 40–45 to reduce vulnerability.
- Build a Balanced Team: Ensure your CDMs have strong defensive stats, your wingers are quick with good dribbling, and your CAM has high passing and agility for maximum effectiveness.
- Use Fullbacks Wisely: Having fullbacks on balanced attack is vital for maintaining width, but ensure they have enough stamina to last the full 90 minutes.
Player Recommendations for the 4213 Formation
Striker
- Erling Haaland
- Victor Osimhen (In Form)
CAM
- Kevin De Bruyne (TOTY SBC)
- Bruno Fernandes (Creative Catalyst Evolution)
Wingers
- Vinícius Júnior (TOTY)
- Mohamed Salah (TOTY)
CDMs
- Joshua Kimmich (Deep-Lying Playmaker)
- Casemiro (Holding Defend)
Fullbacks
- João Cancelo
- Achraf Hakimi
Goalkeeper
- Iker Casillas (TOTY Icon SBC)
- Thibaut Courtois
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 4213 Formation?
The 4213 is a balanced and dynamic formation in FC 25 Ultimate Team. It features two CDMs for defensive stability, one CAM for creativity, and three attackers for consistent offensive pressure.
Why is the 4213 considered a meta formation?
The 4213 is highly effective due to its balance between defense and attack. It utilizes overlapping fullbacks, dynamic CAM positioning, and improved AI movement, making it ideal in the current gameplay meta.
What are the best custom tactics for the 4213?
The best custom tactics involve balanced defensive style (50 width and depth), short passing for chance creation, and 6 players in the box for optimal attacking support. Adjust depth based on your defensive preferences.
Which player types work best in the 4213?
The 4213 benefits from fast wingers, a creative CAM with high passing and agility, and two CDMs with strong defensive stats. Fullbacks with good stamina and offensive attributes are also essential for overlaps.
What are the differences between the two 4213 variations?
The first variation emphasizes balanced play with 50 depth and balanced attack, while the second variation focuses on high-pressure play with 70 depth and direct passing for aggressive tactics.
How do I counter through balls in the 4213?
To counter through balls, lower your defensive depth to around 45–50 and use CDMs with high defensive awareness to block passing lanes. Controlling your goalkeeper manually can also help in one-on-one situations.
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