I appreciate the tips but, this probably should have been in your original post. Because I have been playing with SPD/ACC equal it is nearly impossible to cover a CPU attacker 1v1......even on Professional. For that reason, I have always done precisely what you suggested which is use a CDM to cover passing lanes and try to protect the middle of the field. And then use the contain or second defender press if and only if I have a teammate next to the attacker or if it won't pull them out of position.
Legacy Defending solves a lot of problems. If used correctly, the second defender press button can be very helpful. You just can't spam the x button. Since it's introduction, I always thought Tactical Defending was poorly implemented. Your defenders are too passive and on the higher levels they can't react quick enough to handle the CPU cutbacks.
I also think the CPU may be a little smarter and adapts more than we are noticing. I think there are two reasons why the CPU dribbles too much:
Too much space-If they have space they will dribble. I've literally seen a RWB take the ball down the flank and cut across to the middle of the pitch to complete a ground pass to the opposite corner. However if you can pressure them they will pass and sometimes they will even pass backwards. This is extremely difficult to do on World Class and Legendary because they are quicker, the ninja dribbling, and cut backs.
Tactical Defending I think it was KG that said sometimes the CPU will pass just to pass. I think this combined with the over dribbling has a lot to do with the inability to apply effective pressure. Not bull rushing an attacker, but getting close enough to make the attacker make quicker decisions. Again with Tactical Defending this is nearly impossible on WC and Legendary. I tried using Tactical Defending again this year, like I have every year. And just like every other year, I am back to Legacy Defending.
I think I found the right spot for me and it's full manual, Professional difficulty, legacy defending with line settings at 50-30-45. Passing and shooting percentages are good, there is no FIFA speed cheat, and a TON of the cheese of the upper difficulties is neutered. Yes, the CPU still adjusts tactics and the silliness shown in that second video I posted rarely happens. The CPU passes more and dribbles less because I am able to apply effective pressure. Now if I could find a way to get the total fouls per game to 5-10 I'd be content.
Some Career Mode Results
Arsenal 3 Crystal Palace 2
Got out 3-0 and held on to win 3-2. Incredible diving header goal by Chamakh made it 3-2 and I survived a last minute scramble in the box to start the season off with a win. Ox, Welbeck, and Sanchez scored 3 goals inside the first 20 minutes.
Everton 1 Arsenal 0
Played defensively for most of the game because I could tell their form was good. They were just faster to everything and more physical. They had 16 shots and I had 1! Coleman's goal in the 79th won it.
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