Title Update v1.4.0 for EA Sports FC™ 26 is set to roll out in the coming days, bringing a series of gameplay tweaks focused on improving responsiveness, balance, and overall match flow. This update directly addresses community feedback across AI defending, Squad Battles behavior, and core on-pitch mechanics.

AI Defending Changes

One of the key changes in this update targets AI defending. Reaction times for AI defenders when marking the ball carrier have been slightly reduced. This adjustment increases the likelihood of defenders leaving open space while transitioning between actions, allowing attacking play to feel more fluid and less restrictive. EA has confirmed they will continue monitoring feedback and make further adjustments if needed.

Gameplay Improvements

Several gameplay updates have been introduced to reduce frustration and improve responsiveness:

• Squad Battles AI Update:
  CPU AI behavior in Squad Battles has been adjusted to be more proactive and attacking. Following feedback that matches felt overly passive with long periods of low-pressure possession, the CPU will now focus less on ball retention and more on creating chances.
• Acceleration Types Update:
  Acceleration Types have been refined by adjusting height thresholds. More players will now qualify for the Lengthy run type.
  • Men’s players: minimum height 185 cm
  • Women’s players: minimum height 165 cm
    Other Lengthy requirements remain unchanged:
  • Strength minimum: 65
  • (Strength – Agility) ≥ 4
  • Acceleration minimum: 40
• Goal-Line Defending:
  Defenders positioned on the goal line can now perform automatic clearances in last-ditch situations where a goal is almost certain. This improves defensive reliability in moments where manual reaction time may not be enough.
• Physical Battles:
  Shoulder challenges now better reflect Strength differences. Players with significantly lower Strength are more likely to stumble, while those with higher Strength and Aggression are more effective at shielding the ball.
• Acrobatic Shot Nerf:
  The accuracy of acrobatic shots, such as bicycle kicks taken immediately after a flick, has been further reduced to improve gameplay balance.

Players can expect additional tweaks and fixes, which are detailed in the full patch notes released alongside the update.