FIFA 23 Tips & Guides: Master Every Match

June 12, 2025

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Introduction

FIFA 23 is the latest installment in EA Sports' iconic football simulation series, offering a blend of innovation and realism. From upgraded graphics and animations with HyperMotion2 to a revamped chemistry system in Ultimate Team, FIFA 23 challenges players to adapt and evolve. Whether you're a beginner or a veteran, this guide will help you sharpen your skills and dominate every mode—from Career Mode to FUT Champions.

1. Getting Started: Basic Controls and Settings

Before stepping onto the pitch, make sure you're comfortable with the controls and your game settings. A proper setup can dramatically improve your performance.

Basic Controls to Learn

  • Pass (X/A): Standard ground pass

  • Through Ball (Triangle/Y): Sends a teammate forward

  • Shoot (Circle/B): Standard shot; hold for power

  • Skill Moves (Right Stick): Adds flair and opens space

Optimize Your Settings

Camera Settings: Use "Tele Broadcast" with height 17 and zoom 3 for optimal vision.
Controller Settings: Turn off "Timed Finishing" if you're a beginner, and enable "Player Lock" for manual off-the-ball movement.

2. What’s New in FIFA 23 Gameplay

FIFA 23 introduces new mechanics and tweaks that impact how the game feels on the pitch.

HyperMotion2 Technology

With thousands of real-life motion captures, HyperMotion2 enhances realism. Player animations look smoother and more natural, and physical challenges feel more dynamic.

Power Shots and Set Pieces

Power Shots: By pressing L1+R1 (LB+RB) with your shot button, you can unleash high-powered strikes, perfect for long-range efforts.
Set Pieces: Free kicks and corners now let you control spin and aim more precisely using the right stick.

3. Building a Strong Career Mode Team

Career Mode lets you take control of a club or player and lead them to success. Your choices in scouting, training, and team management are key.

Smart Scouting

Use the Youth Academy to develop future stars, and deploy scouts to key footballing regions like Brazil and Spain for high-potential signings.

Managing Your Team

Boost player morale with press conferences, rotate your squad to avoid fatigue, and tailor tactics to opponents (e.g., pressing high vs. sitting deep).

4. Starting Your FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) Journey

FUT is one of FIFA 23’s most competitive and rewarding modes. Begin strong without needing to spend real money.

Picking a Starter Nation

Choose a starter nation with a large player pool like Brazil or France to make squad building easier.

Complete Early Objectives

Focus on Milestones and Seasonal Objectives to earn packs, coins, and untradeable players. Begin with Squad Battles before moving to Division Rivals.

Affordable Meta Players

Players like Allan Saint-Maximin, Renato Sanches, and Luis Muriel offer excellent performance for low cost in the early stages of the game.

5. Chemistry System & Squad Building Tips

The chemistry system in FIFA 23 is entirely revamped, emphasizing flexibility.

How the New Chemistry System Works

  • No more positional links between players

  • Max chemistry per player: 3

  • No overall team chemistry score

Building Chemistry Efficiently

Stick to one league or nation to build a strong core, then slowly transition into hybrids. Use Chemistry Styles wisely to boost specific attributes like pace or passing.

6. Mastering Skill Moves and Dribbling

Dribbling and skill moves are critical tools in tight matches. Timing and simplicity are key.

Must-Know Skill Moves

  • Ball Roll: Easy to perform and great for space

  • Heel to Heel: Excellent for quick acceleration

  • Elastico: High-level move for skilled players

Combine Left Stick and Agile Dribbling

Use L1/LB for agile dribbling, and mix in simple feints to keep defenders guessing. Avoid overusing complex skills unless you're confident.

7. Defending Like a Pro

Good defending wins games. FIFA 23 rewards manual defending with enhanced player control.

Jockeying and Pressing

Use L2/LT to jockey and R2/RT for quick jockeying. Press R1/RB for second-man press to trap attackers.

Manual Over AI

Manually controlling CDMs or center-backs lets you intercept passes more effectively than relying on AI. Use instructions like “Cut Passing Lanes” for added support.

8. Set Pieces and Free Kick Tips

Knowing how to take advantage of set pieces can earn you crucial goals in close matches.

Corner Kick Strategies

Try the near-post run tactic for heading opportunities. Short corners also give more control over the build-up.

Mastering Free Kicks

Use the right stick to apply different spins and aim precisely. Pair with Power Shots to surprise the keeper.

9. FUT Champions and Division Rivals Tips

Competing online in Weekend League or Rivals requires both skill and composure.

Time and Mental Management

Don’t play all your matches in one sitting. Take breaks to stay sharp and avoid emotional tilt.

Top Formations and Tactics

Meta formations like 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2 offer balance. Set different tactics for defense and attack, and adjust mid-game as needed.

10. Advanced Strategies & Meta Tips

At higher levels of play, small adjustments and mastering the meta can give you an edge.

Green Timed Finishing

Practice timing your shots in the green zone for higher accuracy. Use Skill Games mode to improve this mechanic.

Player Instructions

Set your team up with smart instructions:

  • Strikers: Stay Central, Get In Behind

  • CDMs: Stay Back, Cut Passing Lanes

  • Fullbacks: Stay Back or Balanced depending on your style

Conclusion

FIFA 23 offers one of the most dynamic and rewarding football experiences to date. From learning basic controls to mastering chemistry in Ultimate Team, each step is an opportunity to grow and improve. Success in FIFA 23 comes down to strategic thinking, dedication, and the willingness to adapt. Keep experimenting, learning, and above all—have fun on the virtual pitch.