The recently released EA Sports FC 26 patch 1.1.1 includes numerous adjustments to dribbling, including a nerf to R1 dribbling that has left many players struggling to adapt. Many players may already be searching for dribbling techniques more suited to patch 1.1.1.

Below, I'll introduce some controller-based dribbling techniques to help you quickly adapt to patch 1.1.1, including the revised R1 dribbling techniques!

R2 Speed ​​Boost

Now, let's talk about how to give your players exceptional speed. The key lies in timing your R2 button.

Hold R2 the moment your player touches the ball. Release R2 as they run. Once they touch the ball again, hold it down again before using the Run button. You'll see your player running incredibly fast.

However, this method requires a certain player type and can only be used on players with high basic speed. The faster the player, the more effective this technique will be. For example, if your Playstyle is upgraded to Playstyle+ with FUT 26 Coins, their speed and ball control will be unstoppable in-game.

For maximum effectiveness, you'll need to use players with Rapid Playstyle or Playstyle+, such as Neco Williams. His acceleration is faster than his sprint speed, making him a better fit for this strategy.

R1 Touch

In patch 1.1.1, R1 dribbling was significantly nerfed. Currently, even for Technical Playstyle players, it's no longer recommended. Therefore, our dribbling strategy needs some adjustments.

So, when should you use R1 dribbling? My recommendation is to use it to change direction. When you're about to turn your player sideways during a match, hold R1 for one second and then use the left stick to change direction. This will make your turn much quicker.

Although R1 has been nerfed overall, it's still more effective for changing direction than using only the left stick. This technique will allow you to react to unexpected situations more easily and score more goals.

Berba Spin

We all know that the first touch is crucial in FUT 26. If you can successfully control the ball and dribble past the defense, you'll undoubtedly have more chances to score.

So how can you improve your chances of dribbling past the defense after your first touch? Learn the Berba Spin.

When surrounded on your first touch, align your right stick with the direction your player is facing and gently push it. Then, observing the situation, decide which direction you want to break through, and push the right stick in that direction to perform Berba Spin.

This is a very deceptive maneuver. From your opponent's perspective, you appear to be continuing in the direction you're facing, but suddenly turn in the opposite direction. This often gives them a momentary reaction, allowing you to successfully break through their defense.

Besides this, you can also use Berba Spin to escape defenders.

In my opinion, Berba Spin is a very useful technique introduced in patch 1.1.1, but it's a very challenging technique to use, as it requires you to execute the sequence before actually touching the ball. Mastering this technique requires more practice.

L1 Stop

This is a useful trick to confuse your opponent during play. Once you master it, you can even use it every game.

During play, simply press L1 (for PS) or LB (for Xbox) to instantly stop your player and face the goal. This works whether your player is moving forward or backward.

This technique also makes it easier to play through balls, especially when surrounded by opposing players and unable to pass to a striker. Pressing L1 to stop your player and face the goal allows you to pass the ball.

Of course, L1 Stop isn't just for passing; it can also be used in conjunction with a skill move to evade opposing defenders. Furthermore, using L1 Stop on the edge of the penalty area allows you to quickly cut into the box and evade the opposing defense.

These techniques can make you more unpredictable and help you take control of the game.

Dribbling Tips Summary

While previously, mastering the R1 dribbling technique was enough to dominate the court, patch 1.1.1 places a greater emphasis on skill moves. Once you understand the major changes, you should try to adapt to them.

Adapting To The Reducing R1 Dribbling

While it's unfortunate, the R1 dribbling technique is no longer effective in most situations in FUT patch 1.1.1. Besides changing direction, consider using more effective techniques for other in-game situations.

Focus On L2 Shielding The Ball

When facing an opposing defender approaching for the ball, hold down the L2 button to shield the ball. This technique can be very effective in pressure situations, especially if you're controlling a player with Enforcer Playstyle.

Maintaining Unpredictability

Try to minimize your player's obvious movements during play. Use more skillful moves to confuse your opponent, such as Berba Spin and L1 Stop.

Overall, EA Sports FC 26 patch 1.1.1 includes a decent amount of changes, aside from the slightly excessive nerf to R1 dribbling. Learn and master the above tips to make your players invincible in this new patch!