If you play FC 25, you already know the feeling. It’s the 89th minute, the score is tied, and your striker is making a forward run toward the box. The pressure is on. You have one chance to thread that perfect pass or whip in a game-winning cross.
With EA Sports FC 25 – where every pass, every cross, and every moment counts.
We’ve all had those frustrating missteps where the ball ends with the opponent instead of our teammate. That’s why we’re here to help you turn those moments of frustration into sweet memories.
Whether you’re grinding in Ultimate Team or orchestrating a masterclass in Career Mode, passing and crossing are your tools for success. This guide takes you through all the essentials and advanced techniques you need to know.
Getting Started: The Basics of Passing
Passing in FC 25 is your bread and butter. To pass the ball, press the pass or cross button while directing the left stick (L) toward your desired target.
The controls are intuitive:
- Ground Pass: Press X on PlayStation or A on Xbox.
- Cross: Hit □ on PlayStation or X on Xbox.
- Through Pass: Use △ on PlayStation or Y on Xbox.
Seems simple, right? It is…until you’re faced with a high-pressure situation where precision matters. That’s where mastering how best to pass comes into play.
Advanced Passing Techniques
To shine, you need to expand your arsenal. Here’s a breakdown of key advanced techniques and when to use them:
1. Lofted Ground Pass
- Controls: Press X + X (PlayStation) or A + A (Xbox).
- When to Use: Ideal for skipping over an opponent’s outstretched leg or splitting tight midfield lines.
2. Driven Ground Pass (Long Driven Pass)
- Controls: Hold R1 + X (PlayStation) or RB + A (Xbox).
- When to Use: When you need a zippy, low-driven pass to a teammate further up the field.
3. Flair Pass / Swerve Pass
- Controls: Press L2 + X (PlayStation) or LT + A (Xbox).
- When to Use: Want to dazzle your opponent? This stylish pass adds spin and unpredictability.
4. Through Pass
- Controls: Press △ (PlayStation) or Y (Xbox).
- When to Use: Perfect for threading the ball through defensive gaps to an onrushing attacker.
5. Lobbed Through Pass
- Controls: Press L1 + △ (PlayStation) or LB + Y (Xbox).
- When to Use: Need to bypass a solid defensive line? This pass lofts the ball over defenders to a teammate in space.
6. Precision Pass
- Controls: Hold R1 + △ (PlayStation) or RB + Y (Xbox).
- When to Use: Use this for pinpoint accuracy, especially in tight spaces or counterattacks.
Crossing: Delivering the Perfect Ball
Crossing is all about timing and accuracy. Be it whipping in a low-driven cross for a tap-in or delivering a high lob to your towering striker, you’ll want to choose the right type of cross for the situation.
1. Standard Cross
- Controls: Press □ (PlayStation) or X (Xbox).
- When to Use: The classic option for delivering a ball into the box.
2. Ground Cross
- Controls: Tap □ + □ (PlayStation) or X + X (Xbox).
- When to Use: Great for cutbacks and finding teammates unmarked near the penalty spot.
3. High Lob Cross
- Controls: Hold L1 + □ (PlayStation) or LB + X (Xbox).
- When to Use: Perfect for finding tall strikers in the box.
4. Driven Cross
- Controls: Press L1 + R1 + □ (PlayStation) or LB + RB + X (Xbox).
- When to Use: Use this for fast, low crosses that defenders struggle to clear.
5. Flair Cross
- Controls: Hold L2 + □ (PlayStation) or LT + X (Xbox).
- When to Use: Want to get fancy? Flair crosses add some style while remaining effective.
Reading the Game: Situational Awareness
Passing and crossing are not just about pressing the right buttons; they’re about making the right decisions.
Here are a few tips to enhance your decision-making:
- Scan the Field: Always look for space and anticipate your teammates’ runs. The mini-map can be your best friend.
- Be Patient: Don’t force passes. Keep possession and wait for the right opportunity.
- Exploit Weaknesses: Identify your opponent’s defensive gaps and attack them with through balls or crosses.
Perfecting Your Timing and Power
The strength and speed of your passes depend on how long you hold the button. Here’s how to get it right:
- Quick Taps: Ideal for short, fast passes in tight spaces.
- Hold for Power: For long-distance passes and crosses, hold the button longer to ensure it reaches your target.
- Fine-Tune with Practice: Spend time in training mode to get a feel for the right timing and power levels.
Combos & Tricks to Use in FC 25
1. Pass and Go
- Controls: Press L1 + X (PlayStation) or LB + A (Xbox).
- Effect: After passing, your player will immediately make a forward run. Use this to create space.
2. Fake Pass
- Controls: Press □ then X (PlayStation) or X then A (Xbox).
- Effect: Fool defenders into committing, opening up space for your next move.
3. Dummy a Pass
- Controls: Hold R1 (PlayStation) or RB (Xbox) without directing the stick.
- Effect: Let the ball roll past you, confusing your opponent and setting up your teammate.
Training Drills: Practice Makes Perfect
Use FC 25’s training modes to hone your skills:
- Skill Games: Focus on passing accuracy, crossing precision, and decision-making.
- Custom Scenarios: Create drills that replicate in-game situations, like counterattacks or crowded penalty areas.
- Play Online: Test your skills against real players in Ultimate Team or Seasons.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Overpowered Passes: Holding the button too long can result in an uncontrollable ball. Aim for balance.
- Predictability: Mixing up your passing and crossing styles keeps opponents guessing.
- Ignoring Movement: Always account for your teammates’ positioning and movement before executing a pass or cross.
How To Tweak FC 25 Controller Settings For Optimal Performance
