Through balls are one of the most powerful attacking tools in FC 26, yet many players struggle to use them effectively. On the surface, it may seem like you can simply spam the pass button and expect results—but that approach rarely works, especially against stronger opponents. The truth is, through balls are highly situational. To use them successfully, you need to understand when, where, and how to apply each variation. A large number of FC 26 Coins can also be of great help to you.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most important types of through balls and explain the exact situations where they shine. Once you understand these mechanics, you’ll start creating more chances and scoring with far greater consistency.

1. The Regular Through Ball

The most basic version is the standard through ball (Triangle/Y), but don’t underestimate it—it’s still one of the most effective passes in the game when used correctly.

This pass works best when:

Your attacker has space ahead of them

There’s a clear running lane

You approach the pass from a slight diagonal angle

The key is to identify a teammate making a forward run and aim your left stick in their path. Timing is everything. If you release the pass too early or too late, defenders will intercept it.

Even if a defender is nearby, you can still succeed if you have a pace or momentum advantage. For example, if the defender hesitates or slightly changes direction, they lose speed—this is your window to play the pass. A well-timed through ball in that moment can split the defense and send your attacker clean through on goal.

2. The Lofted Through Ball (Double Tap)

When defenders begin anticipating your ground passes, it’s time to switch things up. The lofted through ball—triggered by double tapping Triangle/Y—adds a slight lift to the pass, making interceptions much harder.

This variation is especially useful:

Near or inside the penalty area

When defenders are blocking the passing lane

Against opponents who aggressively track runs

One advanced tip is to aim away from the defender’s movement. Most defenders will try to cover the obvious forward lane. By directing your pass slightly toward the space they came from, you can bypass their interception attempt entirely.

The lofted through ball is subtle but extremely effective. It often catches defenders off guard, giving your attacker a clean touch in dangerous areas.

3. The Curved Through Ball

Arguably, the most dangerous variation in FC 26 is the curved through ball (L2/LT + Triangle/Y). This pass adds spin, allowing the ball to bend around defenders rather than traveling in a straight line.

This is the perfect solution when:

A defender is directly blocking the passing lane

Your opponent reads your intentions well

You need to bypass multiple defenders at once

Instead of forcing a straight pass into traffic, the curve allows the ball to travel around defenders and meet your attacker in stride.

Best Situations to Use It:

On the wings:

When your winger is making a run but a defender is positioned between you and the passing lane, a curved ball can wrap around them and reach your teammate in open space.

Wing to center attacks:

If you’re cutting inside and want to find a striker, the curved through ball can bypass central defenders who are expecting a straight pass.

Tight central spaces:

When all passing lanes seem blocked, adding a curve can help the ball slip between defenders and reach your runner.

Mastering this pass will instantly elevate your attacking play. It’s unpredictable, difficult to defend, and incredibly rewarding when executed correctly.

4. The Lob Through Ball

When ground and curved passes aren’t an option, the lob through ball (L1/LB + Triangle/Y) becomes your last resort.

This pass lifts the ball high into the air, allowing it to travel over defenders and into open space behind the backline.

It’s best used when:

You’re under heavy pressure

Passing lanes are completely blocked

A teammate is making a deep run behind the defense

However, this move comes with a trade-off. Because the ball travels through the air, your attacker will need time to control it after receiving. This slows down the attack and gives defenders a chance to recover.

That means decision-making after the pass is crucial. Instead of forcing a sprint toward a goal, you may need to:

Slow down and shield the ball

Pass immediately to a nearby teammate

Reset the attack

Used wisely, the lob through ball can break even the most compact defenses—but misuse it, and you’ll lose momentum.

Final Thoughts

Through balls in FC 26 are not about spamming—they’re about reading the game. Each variation has its purpose, and knowing when to use them is what separates average players from top performers.

Use regular through balls when space and timing are on your side

Switch to lofted through balls when defenders block passing lanes

Rely on curved through balls to outsmart well-positioned opponents

Turn to lob through balls when all other options are closed

By combining these techniques with smart movement and proper timing, you’ll unlock a whole new level of attacking potential. Practice each variation, pay attention to defensive positioning, and soon you’ll be slicing through defenses with ease.

Master these passes, and you won’t just create chances—you’ll control the game. Having plenty of cheap FC 26 Coins can also be of great help to you.