EA FC 26 : How to Master the New Match Challenge System for Maximum Rewards

Oct-15-2025 PST Category: FC 26


In EA FC 26, competition drives every mode - from Ultimate Team to Division Rivals and Champions Play-Offs. But sometimes, constant high-stakes gameplay can become exhausting. EA Sports has recognized this and introduced a clever new feature to keep matches engaging even when the scoreboard isn't in your favor: Bounties.

 

This guide covers everything you need to know about Bounties in EA FC 26, including how they work, how to trigger them, the best ways to complete them efficiently, and how their rewards can dramatically speed up your Ultimate Team growth.

 

What Are Bounties in EA FC 26?

 

Bounties are dynamic in-match challenges that appear during or before a game, encouraging you to complete specific objectives for extra rewards. They can range from simple performance-based tasks to more complex gameplay challenges designed to push your skills.

 

For example:

 

Score 3 goals using midfielders.

 

Make 10 tackles with defenders.

 

Win 5 aerial duels.

 

Score a goal with a substitute player.

 

Keep a clean sheet using a silver-rated goalkeeper.

 

Each Bounty is tied to a reward tier, with higher difficulty objectives offering better payouts - typically in Coins, XP, or Packs. They also contribute to your Season Progress Track, making them a valuable source of passive advancement even when you're not winning every game.

 

How to Trigger Bounties

 

Bounties can appear in multiple modes, but they're most common in:

 

Ultimate Team Rivals & Squad Battles - Randomly triggered before or during matches, offering skill-based objectives tied to your squad.

 

Champions Play-Offs & Finals - Higher-tier Bounties that reward rare packs or upgrade tokens for exceptional play.

 

Friendlies or Co-op Matches - Casual Bounties focused on creativity, such as scoring team-play goals or long-range strikes.

 

EA Sports has designed Bounties to dynamically adapt to your current performance and team rating. For example, if your opponent's squad is significantly stronger, you might receive easier objectives with slightly boosted rewards to help balance the experience.

 

In short, Bounties aren't just random - they're tailored. Every player, regardless of skill level, can engage with them meaningfully.

 

Types of Bounties

 

Bounties fall into three main categories, each rewarding a different style of play:

 

1. Performance Bounties

 

These focus on your stats within a match - goals, assists, tackles, saves, or possession percentage. They're perfect for consistent players who want guaranteed rewards from solid gameplay.

 

Example: Score 2 finesse goals in a single match.

 

Reward: 1,500 FC 26 Coins + 250 XP.

 

2. Challenge Bounties

 

These test creativity and situational play, often requiring specific player types or tactics.

 

Example: Score a goal using a player with less than 80 pace.

 

Reward: Small Gold Players Pack.

 

3. Streak Bounties

 

These reward persistence - completing objectives across multiple matches.

 

Example: Win 3 matches in a row while keeping clean sheets.

 

Reward: Jumbo Premium Gold Pack or Seasonal XP boost.

 

These layers of challenge ensure that whether you're playing casually or competitively, you'll always have a short-term goal to chase.

 

The Best Strategies for Completing Bounties

 

To consistently finish Bounties, you need to approach them strategically rather than just playing reactively. Here's how to optimize your time:

 

1. Read Your Bounty Before Kickoff

 

Many players overlook this step. Checking your Bounty objectives early helps you structure your playstyle - for instance, switching your striker to a CAM to fulfill “midfielder goal” requirements.

 

2. Build a Flexible Squad

 

A versatile squad is key. Use hybrid lineups that include a mix of physical defenders, pacey wingers, and skillful midfielders. Having diverse attributes ensures you can complete almost any challenge the game throws at you.

 

3. Use Substitutes Smartly

 

If your Bounty involves a “super-sub goal,” bring on a strong finisher like Darwin Núñez or João Félix in the 60th minute. Saving these players for targeted objectives makes completion much easier.

 

4. Track Progress During the Match

 

FC 26's updated HUD and match tracker let you monitor Bounty progress in real-time. Adjust your tactics accordingly - for example, if you need one more assist from a midfielder, shift to a formation that prioritizes central playmaking.

 

5. Combine Bounties with Objectives

 

Many Season Objectives and Milestones overlap with Bounty requirements. Focus on multi-tasking - you could complete a Bounty and an Objective in a single match, doubling your rewards.

 

The Rewards: Why Bounties Are Worth It

 

At first glance, Bounties may seem like small side tasks, but their cumulative value is immense. Completing them regularly can yield:

 

Large Coin Bonuses - Perfect for building your Ultimate Team without resorting to the transfer market grind.

 

Packs and Consumables - Even minor packs add up over time, and some rare Bounties grant exclusive cosmetics or untradeable rewards.

 

Seasonal XP Boosts - Accelerate progress through the Season Pass to unlock high-tier packs and players faster.

 

Chemistry & Playstyle Tokens - Special tokens that improve your squad's synergy or unlock additional Play Styles.

 

For players who struggle in competitive matchmaking, Bounties provide consistent progression without relying solely on match results. You can lose a game 2-1 and still walk away with XP, packs, and coins - a massive morale boost that keeps you engaged.

 

Advanced Tips for Maximizing Efficiency

 

Stack Bounties Across Modes: Some Bounties carry over between Rivals and Friendlies. Take advantage by completing overlapping ones simultaneously.

 

Use Loan Players: Don't be afraid to use high-rated loan cards for hard Bounties; just be sure to time their use strategically.

 

Focus on Low-Pressure Modes: Squad Battles remain one of the easiest places to complete technical or formation-specific Bounties without the stress of human opponents.

 

Play During Bonus Windows: EA often runs limited-time Bounty Boost Events, doubling rewards for a weekend or promoting themed challenges.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Bounties in EA FC 26 redefine how players experience every match. They turn frustration into motivation, ensuring that no game ever feels wasted. Whether you're on a losing streak or just looking for a fresh objective mid-season, Bounties provide tangible progression, variety, and excitement.

 

By learning how to trigger, prioritize, and efficiently complete them, you'll not only earn more coins and packs but also sharpen your gameplay skills along the way. In a game where every advantage counts, mastering Bounties might just be your secret weapon - keeping your Ultimate Team journey rewarding from the first kickoff to the final whistle.