Winning one-on-one situations and cutting inside the box are two of the most important attacking skills in EA FC 26. Whether you’re trying to beat a fullback on the wing or create space inside a crowded penalty area, having the right skill moves in your locker can completely change how dangerous you are going forward.

The good news is that you don’t need a squad full of five-star skillers to be effective. Early in FC 26, five-star players are rare, so this guide focuses primarily on skill moves that require four stars or fewer, with only one elite five-star option included for those lucky enough to have one. Below, we break down the most reliable skill moves for 1v1 scenarios and cutting inside, explaining how to perform them, when to use them, and why they work so well in game. A large number of EAFC 26 Coins can also be very helpful.

1. Drag Back Spin

The drag back spin is one of the most underrated skill moves in EA FC 26, yet it’s incredibly effective for quick direction changes. To perform it, you need a player with at least four-star skill moves. Simply flick the right stick backward (opposite the direction you’re moving) and then flick it to the left or right, depending on where you want to exit.

The key detail here is movement speed. This skill works best when your player is walking, not sprinting. When executed correctly, the animation is fast and sharp, allowing your player to drag the ball back and instantly change direction.

This move shines on the edge of the box. If a defender is blocking your path inside, a well-timed drag back spin lets you shift the ball onto your stronger foot and cut into shooting space before the defender can react.

2. Advanced Roulette (Spin)

The advanced roulette, also known as the spin, is a step above the standard roulette because it allows you to change direction after the animation finishes. Unlike a normal roulette, which keeps you moving in the same direction, the advanced version gives you far more control in tight situations.

To perform it, hold L2 + R1 (PlayStation) or LT + RB (Xbox), then rotate the right stick in a half-circle starting opposite your movement and finishing in the direction you want to go.

This move is perfect in 1v1 scenarios when a defender is rushing toward you or committing to a tackle. The animation lets you glide past the defender while redirecting your run, making it extremely useful for cutting inside from wide areas or escaping pressure in midfield.

3. L1 Elastico / Reverse Elastico (Five-Star Skill)

This is the only five-star skill move on the list, but it’s easily one of the most lethal ways to cut inside the box. The trick begins by tapping L1/LB, which stops your player and makes them face the goal. From there, you immediately perform an elastico or reverse elastico, depending on the space available.

For a right-footed player, the elastico is performed by flicking the right stick from right to back to left. The reverse elastico is the opposite motion. Wherever the stick ends is where your player will explode into space.

This setup is devastating near the box. The brief pause from L1 freezes defenders, and the elastico burst creates instant separation. If you have even one five-star skiller in your team, mastering this move will lead directly to goals.

4. Berba Spin Cancel

The Berba spin is well known, which is exactly why canceling it makes it so effective. By starting the animation and then canceling it, you become far more unpredictable and catch defenders off guard.

To perform the Berba spin, flick the right stick forward and then left or right, depending on your exit. To cancel it, press R2 + L2 (RT + LT on Xbox) during the animation.

This move is ideal on the edge of the box. Defenders expect the full spin, but when you cancel it, your player shields the ball and slips into space. The cancel animation is strong, physical, and perfect for breaking tight defensive lines in 1v1 situations.

5. Open-Up Fake Shot (L1 Fake Shot)

Simple but extremely effective, the open-up fake shot doesn’t require any skill move rating at all. To perform it, hold L1/LB, execute a fake shot, and then use the left stick to guide your exit direction.

This move works both outside and inside the box. When a defender is tight to your side, the animation creates just enough space to escape or shift onto your shooting foot. It’s especially useful for players who prefer efficiency over flashy mechanics.

6. Heel to Ball Roll

The heel to ball roll is a classic skill move that remains powerful in EA FC 26. To execute it, hold L1/LB, flick the right stick in the direction you’re moving, then quickly flick it in the opposite direction.

This move excels in tight spaces. Your player keeps the ball close between their legs, making it difficult for defenders to poke it away. It works well for cutting inside from the wing and is surprisingly effective inside the box when space is limited.

Final Thoughts

These skill moves represent some of the most reliable and effective options for 1v1 situations and cutting inside in EA FC 26. With only one five-star move included, this list is accessible to most players early in the game cycle. Mastering when and where to use each move will significantly improve your attacking play, helping you beat defenders, create chances, and score more goals. Having enough FC 26 Coins can also be very helpful.

Practice them, stay unpredictable, and your opponents will struggle to keep up.