There’s no shortage of skill moves in FC 26, but let’s be honest - most players only need a few to dominate the pitch. With dozens of flashy tricks available, learning every move can feel overwhelming, and some are simply not effective in competitive play. In this guide, we’ll focus on the nine essential skill moves you actually need to master in FC 26. These moves are simple, effective, and game-changing once you learn how and when to use them. And if you want to build a stronger team to practice these techniques with, you can always buy FUT 26 Coins to unlock elite players faster and enhance your gameplay experience.

1. L1 Step Over (Explosive Step Over)

The Explosive Step Over is a brand-new skill move in FC 26 and one of the most useful additions for wingers. It helps you create space on the flanks, break into the box, or even speed up your passing rhythm.

· How to perform:

Hold L1 (LB on Xbox) and move the right stick in a quarter-circle motion starting from the direction your player is facing.
To exit, move the left stick toward your desired direction (up, back, diagonal, etc.).

Use this skill when you’re isolated 1v1 on the wing - it gives you that extra burst to sprint past defenders or open a passing lane.

2. Control Sprint

Arguably the most effective and easiest skill in FC 26, the Control Sprint lets you accelerate smoothly into space - especially between a fullback and center-back, the weak point of most defenses.

· How to perform:

Simply hold R1 (RB) and move the left stick toward open space.

Combine this with L1 strafe dribbling for deadly results: L1 for tight control, R1 for speed. Switching between the two creates a rhythm that defenders struggle to read.

3. Ball Roll (and Ball Roll Scoop)

A timeless classic, the Ball Roll remains a must-know. It’s perfect for cutting inside from the wing, adjusting your shooting or passing angle, or escaping pressure.

· How to perform:

Hold the right stick left or right for half a second (relative to the player’s facing direction).
For multiple rolls, continue holding the stick.

For a more advanced variation, try the Ball Roll Scoop (requires 5-star skills). Perform a ball roll and then a fake shot, moving the left stick opposite to your roll direction. This creates a smooth, deceptive motion - ideal for entering the box.

4. La Croqueta

The La Croqueta is back and better than ever in FC 26, featuring a faster, tighter animation. It’s perfect for tight spaces, setting up a shot, or opening new passing lanes.

· How to perform:

Hold L1 (LB) and flick the right stick left or right.
To perform the “Stop and Pop” version, first tap L1 to stop the ball, then do the La Croqueta to explode forward.

You can also trigger a quick Croqueta using R1 + fake shot, releasing the left stick for a snappy transition.

5. Fake Shot

Simple but devastating - the Fake Shot is one of the most underrated moves in FC 26. When executed correctly, it can create instant separation, especially with fast players (85+ sprint speed).

· How to perform:

Tap Square (X on Xbox) then X (A) and push the left stick toward your desired exit direction.

The key is timing: perform the input early to trigger an explosive animation. If your player has the Trickster PlayStyle, this move looks even more fluid and deceptive.

6. Heel to Ball Roll

Elegant and efficient, the Heel to Ball Roll helps you subtly change direction and maintain control in tight areas.

· How to perform:

Hold L1 (LB) and flick the right stick forward, then backward (or vice versa).
The left stick controls your exit direction.

This move shines when approaching defenders head-on - a slight direction change often sends them the wrong way.

7. Flop Up Meg (Flare Nutmeg)

The Flop Up Meg isn’t just flashy - it’s practical. Use it to bypass a pressing defender or create an instant passing lane.

· How to perform:

Hold L1 + R1 (LB + RB) and flick the right stick at a 90° angle to your facing direction.

It requires 4-star skills, but the payoff is huge - especially when used for quick flare passes under pressure.

8. Advanced Roulette

A trickier but highly rewarding move, the Advanced Roulette helps you glide past defenders and line up perfect shooting angles.

· How to perform:

Hold L2 + R1 (LT + RB) and rotate the right stick 180° from back to front.
Clockwise rotation moves left; anticlockwise moves right.

Use it near the box for a stylish and effective way to open space for a shot.

9. Berba Spin / McGeady Cancel

Finally, the Berba/McGeady Cancel - a high-level stop-and-go technique that fakes retreat before accelerating forward into open space.

· How to perform:

Flick the right stick twice (first in your facing direction, then up or down),
Hold L2 + R2 (LT + RT) to cancel, and
Push the left stick toward your exit direction.

Four-star skillers perform the Berba Spin, while five-star players unlock the faster McGeady Cancel.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to memorize every trick in FC 26 - just master these nine. Practice them in the training arena, focus on timing and spacing, and soon you’ll glide past defenders with ease. Remember: it’s not about using every move, but knowing which move to use and when. And if you’re looking to build your dream squad faster, grabbing some cheap FC 26 Coins can help you unlock top-tier players to complement your new skills. Now get out there, and make defenders wish they’d never pressed tackle.