I'll put myself in the category of novice but I'll start the discussion:
I don't play online, but I know certain unrealistic set ups seem to work online. For instance I've seen formations like 4-0-6 that take advantage of the generous fatigue allowance. This allows the opponent to dominate in the attacking third. So my discussion is mainly around how I try to enjoy the beautiful game. All of my thoughts can be implemented by adjusting the formation of your team and the custom tactics. I will also add it’s important to know your players and their abilities….take advantage of their strengths.
Disclaimer: These names aren’t something you’ll find in the Encyclopedia of Soccer…they are made up by me.
Counter attack: Germany executed this perfectly in this World Cup. Look to use the lob through pass to hit your strikers bombing forward. You’ll want strikers that can push defenders off the ball and have good acceleration.
Use the wings: If you have fast wing players with decent skill move capabilities, try zipping down the flanks and cutting in or crossing. Usually you’ll have 1 on 1 opportunities where a step over to exit move can shimmy you past the defender. If you have a tall player with great heading accuracy, you can create a deadly scoring combination with a high crossing rated player.
Short pass attack: South American teams are more known for this kind of play. They are proficient at triangle passing and one-twos. Often this is useful when facing a high pressure opponent. Making sure you always have someone to pass to can open up their defence.
Short pass but slow build up: Spain is awesome at this. Basically keep possession of the ball because without the ball, the other team can’t score. They will often pass the ball back into their own third and restart their attack. With enough skilled passing they find enough opportunities to slip a through ball to David Villa at the top of the box.
Long ball: The US national team seemed to resort to this strategy at some points in the tournament albeit unsuccessfully. If the other team plays a very compact formation you can use that to your advantage and play wider in the attack. This gives your players more space to receive long passes and their defenders will have to play catch up or at least they may be 1 on 1 opportunities.
Don’t be afraid to change your strategy in game using the tactics selector.