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Introduction
Whether you're a total beginner or a long-time FIFA player, FIFA 23 introduces enough new mechanics, tactical options, and gameplay depth to require a fresh approach. From its stunning graphics powered by HyperMotion2 to the redesigned chemistry system in Ultimate Team, FIFA 23 is more than just another football game—it’s a test of strategy, timing, and mastery.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to play FIFA 23 with confidence: setting up the game, improving your skills, building teams, winning matches, and climbing the ranks—both offline and online. Let’s kick off!
1. Set Yourself Up for Success
Before you even play your first match, make sure FIFA 23 is tailored to your playstyle. That means optimizing your settings, mastering the basic controls, and choosing a difficulty level that allows you to improve without feeling overwhelmed.
Recommended Setup for Starters:
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Difficulty: Start on Semi-Pro or Professional.
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Controls: Stick with Classic unless you have a reason to change.
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Trainer: Enable it during your first few matches—it shows you where and how to pass or shoot.
Take 20 minutes to complete the basic skill games and tutorials. They’re not just for beginners; they’ll help you get a feel for FIFA 23’s speed and precision.
2. Learn the New Controls and Gameplay Mechanics
FIFA 23 refines several core mechanics while adding new features like Power Shots and Hard Stops. The game rewards players who are precise and deliberate.
Key Features to Master:
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Power Shot (L1 + R1 + Shoot): High-risk, high-reward shots that can change the game—especially outside the box.
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Agile Dribbling (Hold R1): Ideal for tight spaces or isolating defenders.
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Controlled Sprint (L1 + R2): Use it to accelerate strategically without losing balance.
Spend time in Practice Arena to test these moves without pressure.
3. Choose the Right Formation and Strategy
Before building your team or starting a season, pick a formation that matches your playstyle. Some formations are ideal for controlling the midfield, while others maximize counter-attacks or wing play.
Beginner-Friendly Formations:
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4-2-3-1: Balanced, good for defending and quick transitions.
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4-3-3 (Attack): Great for high-tempo, wing-based play.
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5-3-2: Perfect for defensive playstyles with room for counter-attacks.
Don’t forget to assign roles (captain, free kick taker, etc.) and set up player instructions to control how each player behaves during matches.
4. Build a Winning Team in Career Mode
Career Mode lets you take full control of a team’s future—either as a manager or a single player. It’s one of FIFA 23’s deepest and most rewarding modes.
If you choose Manager Career:
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Scout and develop youth players.
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Use Dynamic Potential to turn hidden gems into stars.
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Adjust finances, wages, and transfer offers wisely.
If you choose Player Career:
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Complete match objectives to earn XP.
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Focus on attributes that match your position.
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Use perks and skill points to evolve your playstyle.
Great teams to start with:
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Manager Mode: Aston Villa, Bayer Leverkusen, or Napoli.
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Player Mode: Start at a smaller club to earn more playtime and grow faster.
5. Master the Art of Attacking
Good attacks aren’t about speed—they’re about timing. FIFA 23 emphasizes build-up play and smart positioning. Passing triangles, fake shots, and exploiting space are more important than pure pace.
Top Attacking Tips:
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Use 1-2 passes (L1 + Pass) to break defensive lines.
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Try finesse shots (R1 + Shoot) when near the box for accurate curlers.
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Don’t rush—wait for the right opening.
Use the wings to stretch your opponent’s defense and switch play often. Power Shots work best when defenders are backing off.
6. Defend with Confidence and Control
FIFA 23 rewards smart defenders. Gone are the days of spamming slide tackles—now it’s about positioning, jockeying, and intercepting.
Essential Defending Techniques:
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Jockey (L2): The most important tool for 1v1 defense.
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Contain (X): Pressure the ball without overcommitting.
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Switch players manually (Right Stick): AI isn’t always reliable.
Keep your shape. If you get dragged out of position, it’s easier for opponents to create chances. Sometimes, the best move is to delay and let your midfield recover.
7. Take Your Skills Online
Once you’re confident, it’s time to go online—where real competition begins. FIFA 23 features several online modes like Division Rivals, FUT Champions, Online Seasons, and Co-op Seasons.
Before You Jump Online:
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Ensure a stable connection (use a wired cable if possible).
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Start in low divisions to adapt gradually.
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Watch how your opponents play. Learn their habits and counter them.
In tight matches, set pieces and penalties can be decisive. Practice them offline regularly.
8. Build Your Ultimate Team the Smart Way
FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) is all about strategy—on and off the pitch. FIFA 23 overhauled the chemistry system, so you no longer need perfect links between adjacent players.
Beginner Tips for FUT 23:
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Focus on players from the same league or nation.
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Complete Squad Building Challenges (SBCs) to unlock packs.
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Don’t waste coins early—buy value players and trade smart.
Play Squad Battles to earn coins and rewards weekly, then move into Division Rivals and FUT Champions once your team is strong enough.
9. Customize Your Tactics for Every Opponent
FIFA 23 gives you tactical depth like never before. Customize your team’s attacking and defensive behavior, and save multiple game plans for different scenarios.
In Custom Tactics, you can adjust:
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Defensive Width & Depth
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Build-Up Play: Slow, Fast, Balanced, Long Ball
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Chance Creation: Direct Passing, Possession, Forward Runs
Also, set player instructions:
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Wingers: Stay Wide or Cut Inside
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Strikers: Get In Behind or Hold Up
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Midfielders: Stay Back or Get Forward
Switch tactics mid-match using the D-pad (e.g., Ultra Defensive or All-Out Attack).
10. Stay Updated and Learn from the Community
FIFA 23 is constantly evolving. EA releases live patches that change gameplay balance, player ratings, and meta strategies. Staying informed helps you stay ahead.
Best places to stay updated:
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Reddit: r/FIFA for tactics, glitches, and patch reactions
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YouTube: Channels like NepentheZ, Zweback, and BorasLegend
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Twitter: Follow EA Sports FIFA for official updates
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Discord: Join FUT servers for trading tips and player reviews
Also, watch pro tournaments to see what works at the highest level. You’ll learn a lot from how they build teams and manage matches.
Conclusion
FIFA 23 isn’t just about kicking a ball—it’s about mastering strategy, skill, and timing. Whether you prefer building a legacy in Career Mode or competing globally in Ultimate Team, this guide gives you the tools to succeed.
Stick to the fundamentals, refine your tactics, and stay connected to the evolving FIFA community. The more you learn, the more rewarding each match becomes. Now lace up those virtual boots—and go make history.
