My success was built on the LBC playstyle with a hybrid defensive line: three fixed CBs and one flexible fullback slot. Costacurta was my tactical "Swiss Army Knife" I would switch him between LB and RB mid-match depending on where the opponent’s biggest threat was. If they had elite dribblers or "Blitz Curler" threats on the right, Costacurta went left, and vice versa. If I faced threats on both wings, I’d deploy Rijkaard as a deep-seated DMF close to the CBs to provide extra insurance.  
The philosophy was simple: Defensive Solidity,Most of my initial wins were tight 1-0, 2-0, or 2-1. I realized that if you are defensively rock-solid, you not only make the game easier for yourself but eventually frustrate the opponent into making mistakes.  
The Key Performers :  
 Dembele:My absolute clutch player. Despite the community narrative that speed doesn't matter anymore, my Dembele proved the skeptics wrong. He was a constant menace, outrunning high-line defenders and consistently tucking away curlers when I needed them most.  
 The Midfield Engine:I paired Mac Allister(Orchestrator) with Gerrard(Box-to-Box). In an LBC setup, having a Box-to-Box player is non-negotiable. Gerrard was everywhere breaking up attacks, providing pinpoint through balls, and making late surges into the box to score. His link-up play with Dembele was the heartbeat of my offense.  
 The Attack:Kaka and Batistuta were the finishing touches. Kaka’s incredible off-the-ball runs allowed for seamless link-up play, creating the space needed for Batistuta to do what he does best.  
To my fellow F2P players: the grind is real, but it’s possible to outplay the P2W squads with the right discipline and tactical tweaks. If anyone needs advice on formations or player roles, I’m happy to help. Hit me up!

p.s - Yes I have played a lot of matches this phase already as my semester break is going on so don’t call me unemployed please🤪

Finally reached my goal of 2000 rating being a F2P player(SA off)