Why Underdog Matches in EA FC Esports Are Gaining Popularity

The competitive scene in EA SPORTS FC, formerly known as FIFA, is changing. While professional veterans still dominate headlines, more attention is going to the underdogs, players who may not have a big name but have proven they can compete with the best.

This growing interest is not only about the surprise factor but also about how EA SPORTS FC Pro is structured. The game itself, along with the format of its competitions, makes it easier for lesser-known players to rise quickly. Fans are starting to notice, and for good reason.

How the Game Encourages Upsets

EA SPORTS FC is a 1v1 game where outcomes can shift fast. A small mistake, a well-timed press, or even one well-placed long shot can decide a match. Unlike team-based esports, success here often comes down to short bursts of individual performance. Tournaments are usually played in short formats, like best-of-one or best-of-three, which gives lesser-known players more chances to upset a favorite.

Frequent gameplay updates also help shift the balance. If the meta changes and a player adapts quicker than others, they can suddenly find themselves ahead. This has happened before, especially with changes to defending systems or shooting mechanics. Understanding these updates and adjusting tactics is often what separates contenders from pretenders.

Underdogs and Opportunity: A Familiar Story in FIFA Esports

Before the rebrand to EA SPORTS FC, the competitive scene was known as FIFAe. Even back then, underdog stories were common and often closely followed. Some of today’s top players started with little recognition. MoAuba, nicolas99fc, Umut, Tekkz and ManuBachoore were once outsiders. Through consistent results and smart gameplay, they worked their way to the top.

The best FIFA esports betting platforms also noticed this pattern. They started offering options not just for established pros, but also for lesser-known players competing in early rounds. These outsiders were often given high odds, making them interesting picks for those who understood the game’s mechanics and current meta.

For example, a new player using a strong tactic like 4-3-2-1 with quick build-up and constant pressure might be seen as the underdog. But if they had strong form and understood the current gameplay update, the match could easily go either way.

The difference between public expectation and in-game performance is often large. People who follow the meta, track patch changes and watch current form are usually the ones who spot which players are ready to break through. This is still true today in EA SPORTS FC Pro.

A Path That’s Open to Many

One of the most important reasons why underdog players are gaining attention is the way EA SPORTS FC Pro is built. It’s a global competition ecosystem with several routes to the top.

The biggest event in this ecosystem is the FC Pro World Championship, which takes place this summer. This is where 32 of the best players in the world will compete to be crowned World Champion and win their share of a $1,000,000 prize pool.

Players can qualify in three different ways:

• 8 players come from the FC Pro Open
• 20 players qualify through FC Pro Leagues, the official national tournaments
• 4 spots are earned through the FC Pro World Championship Play-Ins

The Play-Ins act as a final chance to join the main event. They include 28 players from the Open Cups and around 20 from the national leagues. This gives many players, including those without huge followings, a shot at the top.

The Community Is Watching

The EA SPORTS FC community follows these rising talents closely. Discussions on social media, streaming platforms, and fan sites often point out promising names even before they qualify. Unlike other scenes where rankings and seeding dominate, here it’s more about who’s in form and who understands the current meta best.

This is where the underdog stories often begin. Players who might not have a title yet, but are known for smart tactics or strong performances in Weekend League, start gaining attention. By the time they reach the Play-Ins or national finals, people are already watching.

Six Underdogs to Keep an Eye On

As the World Championship approaches, here are six players who have flown under the radar but could have a big impact. Some are already qualified, while others are preparing for the Play-Ins.

Giobundyy (Netherlands)

Giobundyy won the 2024-25 eDivisie, the first major title in his career. His unexpected run to the top showed his strong mindset and smart use of current tactics.

ChrisdeBoer (Netherlands)

Chris represents Team Gullit and AZ Alkmaar. He will join Giobundyy in the World Championship after finishing second in the 2024-25 eDivisie. He also won the FC Pro 25 Open Cup December in the Europe West region.

JP Sleator (Ireland)

JP, representing WYLDE, won both the 2024 and 2025 eLeague of Ireland. He will compete in the Play-Ins, looking to earn one of the final four spots at the main event. His consistent results and calm approach have made him one of the top players from his region.

Alihan (Bulgaria)

Alihan plays for RBLZ Gaming and won the 2025 eFirst League. He also qualified for the Play-Ins and is known for his sharp attacking play. Representing a well-known esports organization, he has both the experience and the backing to go far.

Kossu72 (Finland)

A two-time winner of the Finnish eFutisliiga (2024 and 2025), Kossu72 has built a solid reputation. He has qualified for the Play-Ins and is known for adapting quickly to gameplay changes. If he gets through, he could surprise many on the big stage.

Happy (Mexico)

Happy qualified for the Play-Ins through the January Open Cup in the LatAm North region. He is not entirely new to the international scene, having already reached the group stage of the FC Pro 24 Open last season. His past experience, combined with his fast-paced and creative playstyle, makes him a serious threat to more structured and predictable opponents.

The structure of EA SPORTS FC Pro allows for surprises, and that’s one of its strengths. With open qualifiers, changing gameplay, and a supportive community, the door is always open for new names to emerge. The 2025 FC Pro World Championship is set to kick off in early July with the location yet to be announced.