The Showdown Series has become one of the most engaging promotions in EA FC Ultimate Team, and fans are eagerly awaiting its return in EA FC 26. This unique event pairs two footballers from an upcoming real-world match, releasing them as special items through Squad Building Challenges (SBCs). These cards are dynamic, meaning their ratings can change based on the actual match result. For players looking to enhance their squads while enjoying a connection to real football, participating in Showdowns can be both exciting and rewarding. Many players also prepare by securing resources such as FC 26 Coins to ensure they can complete SBCs when the right opportunity arises.
Understanding how Showdown upgrades work is essential for making informed decisions. When you complete a Showdown SBC, you are effectively predicting the outcome of the featured match. The upgrade rules are simple:
- Winning Team: The card receives a +2 Overall (OVR) boost.
- Draw: Both cards receive a +1 Overall (OVR) boost.
- Losing Team: No upgrade is applied; the card remains at its base rating.
These boosts are usually applied within a few days after the match, potentially turning a good card into a top-tier option.
Below is a detailed tracker of all Showdown cards released in EA FC 26, including their initial ratings, match results, and final upgraded ratings.
| Player | Club | Match | Initial Rating | Match Result | Final Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martin Ødegaard | Arsenal | Arsenal vs Tottenham | 89 OVR | Win (2-1) | 91 OVR |
| James Maddison | Tottenham Hotspur | Arsenal vs Tottenham | 89 OVR | Loss (1-2) | 89 OVR |
| Éder Militão | Real Madrid | Real Madrid vs Barcelona | 90 OVR | Draw (2-2) | 91 OVR |
| Jules Koundé | FC Barcelona | Real Madrid vs Barcelona | 90 OVR | Draw (2-2) | 91 OVR |
| Lautaro Martínez | Inter | Inter vs AC Milan | 91 OVR | Loss (0-1) | 91 OVR |
| Rafael Leão | AC Milan | Inter vs AC Milan | 91 OVR | Win (1-0) | 93 OVR |
| Joshua Kimmich | Bayern Munich | Bayern Munich vs Borussia Dortmund | 92 OVR | Win (3-1) | 94 OVR |
| Jude Bellingham | Borussia Dortmund | Bayern Munich vs Borussia Dortmund | 92 OVR | Loss (1-3) | 92 OVR |
When deciding whether to complete a Showdown SBC, several factors should be weighed carefully:
- Base Usability: Determine if the player’s base stats fit your squad, even without an upgrade.
- Upgrade Impact: Consider how a +2 OVR boost could elevate the card’s performance, especially for competitive play.
- Real-World Match Context: Analyze team form, injuries, and historical rivalry outcomes to estimate the likelihood of a win or draw.
- Cost vs Market Value: Compare the SBC cost to similar players available on the transfer market to gauge value.
For example, a card like Rafael Leão at 91 OVR may already be strong for wide attacking roles, but with a +2 boost, it becomes a game-changing winger. Conversely, investing in a card from an underdog team carries higher risk but could pay off if the team surprises with a win.
Showdown SBCs blend football knowledge, strategic thinking, and in-game resource management. They offer a unique way to connect your Ultimate Team experience with live football matches, creating moments of anticipation and reward. By keeping track of player performances and match outcomes, you can make smarter choices and maximize your squad’s potential. For those aiming to stay competitive and prepared for every release, it can be wise to plan ahead and buy FC 26 coins cheap so you’re ready to complete the SBCs that best fit your strategy.