Scoring goals in FIFA 23 isn’t just about sprinting down the pitch and hoping for the best—it’s about precision, control, and knowing when to pull the right move. In this attacking tutorial, we’ll go over 14 of the most effective offensive tricks that top players use to open up defenses and convert more chances. From passing tactics to advanced shooting techniques, this is your ultimate guide to becoming a deadly force in FIFA 23.

1. Triggering Creative Runs

One of the most overlooked fundamentals is manually triggering runs. Forget relying on custom tactics alone. Tap L1 to send players forward or L1 double tap to make two players come short. If someone’s too far upfield, pressing L1 calls them short, helping you link up better. Manual triggers make your team dynamic, responsive, and far less predictable.

2. Attack Through the Wings

The center of the pitch often gets clogged with defenders. That’s why wing play is essential. Push your fullbacks up and stretch your opponent’s defensive shape. Whether you go for early crosses or aim for cutbacks from the byline, the wide areas give you space and tactical leverage. Using width drags players out of position, creating dangerous gaps.

3. In-Between Crosses

With the AI attacking behavior improved this year, you’ll often spot runs between the center backs. Exploit this by delivering a soft, lightly tapped cross into that zone. Look up, spot the runner, and gently tap the cross button. You’ll set up easy goals if timed right. These are best used when crossing from the wing after stretching the play.

4. Early Ball Roll Cross

This is a powerful variation that’s simple but deadly. Perform a ball roll before crossing, especially during early crosses. It gives the cross more accuracy and often disrupts defensive marking. This slight touch preps your player perfectly and tends to confuse defenders into losing their mark. Use this especially when strikers are making active runs.

5. First-Time Through Balls

Quick, one-touch football is extremely effective in FIFA 23. Use L1 + Triangle to execute a first-time through ball after triggering a run. The rhythm is: trigger the runner, hold the pass until they’re just past the offside line, and then deliver it. It’s great with three-player combinations and rewards smart, fast-paced buildup.

6. Driven Lobbed Through Balls

Another advanced tool is the L1 + R1 + Triangle pass. This version adds power and elevation, helping break defensive lines with longer-range passes. For best results, aim it at a player slightly angled toward the sideline. High power is key, and the pass slices through better if the runner is moving outward before cutting in.

7. Travella Shots

These are still OP. Use L2 + Circle and shoot from an angle toward the corner flag for that trademark outside-foot finish. You want a left-footer on the left and a right-footer on the right. Use around 3 bars of power and make sure not to sprint just before the shot. It’s a reliable finisher from distance and works with surprisingly low shooting stats.

8. Power Shots

A new addition this year, Power Shots (L1 + R1 + Circle) are perfect against passive players who park the bus. After a first touch facing the goal, line up and unleash. Use around 3 to 3.5 bars of power depending on distance. They take longer to execute, so space is key. This is your tool for punishing slow-reacting defenses.

9. Player Lock

Want to control off-ball movement? Press both sticks (L3 + R3) to initiate player lock, then use the right stick to select your target. From there, make runs freely and call for a pass with any pass button. You can cancel the lock with the same buttons. Use it to make precise runs behind the defense or to set up cross-box passes with full control.

10. Shielding

Hold L2 to shield the ball, especially effective with strong players or while contesting high balls. It helps suck in defenders, win time for support to arrive, or even just muscle your way into a better shooting angle. This is a simple but massively underutilized technique.

11. Right Stick Speed Boost

The right stick flick boost is a fast way to burst past defenders. While sprinting, flick the right stick forward. A quick flick gives a short boost; hold it for a longer touch. Use it only when there’s open space ahead—it’s a pure pace move and doesn’t work well in crowded areas. When timed right, it’s a game changer.

12. Agile Dribbling Tap

Left stick dribbling may feel weak this year, especially on next-gen, so instead tap R1 repeatedly while moving the left stick. This enhances control and makes your movement more responsive. The faster you move the stick, the quicker the movement. Master this for those tricky one-on-ones.

13. Reverse Elastico

One of the most unpredictable and fastest skill moves. To make it effective, face the corner flag, then perform the move with a 5-star skiller. Think of the right stick like a clock: go from 10:30 to 4:30 for the input. The exit angle is key. Practice this in the arena to refine your motion and apply it when you want to beat defenders inside the box.

14. Heel to Ball Roll (New Move)

A 4-star move, this is the newest favorite. Hold L1 and flick right stick forward, then back. To make it cut inside, use the left stick to aim your exit. From the right side, aim the stick upwards to move toward goal, and vice versa on the left. It’s slick, effective, and perfect for setting up finesse shots or driven finishes.

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Whether you’re working on better build-up play, sharper finishing, or unlocking defenses with flair, these 14 attacking tricks will give your gameplay new depth. Practice one at a time, use them in real matches, and soon you’ll have a full arsenal ready to unleash on your opponents. See you on the pitch!