Climbing the ranked ladder in eFootball is one of the most exciting challenges the game offers. Starting in Division 9 can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re still figuring out controls, tactics, and how to build your Dream Team. Facing veterans in higher divisions who already have Legendary squads can feel like an impossible task.
But here’s the truth: with the right roadmap, anyone can rise. This guide provides a step-by-step beginner’s roadmap from Division 9 to Division 1 in eFootball. Whether you’re brand new or stuck in the middle divisions, you’ll find the strategies, tips, and mindset shifts you need to consistently improve and eventually compete with the best.
Why Progression in Divisions Matters
Before jumping into the roadmap, let’s understand why divisions matter so much:
- Better Rewards: Higher divisions provide more GP, coins, and event points.
- Tougher Competition: Every climb improves your skill as you adapt to better players.
- Prestige: Reaching Division 1 is a badge of honor in the eFootball community.
- Esports Pathway: Many professional players started by mastering Division play.
Think of it like real football leagues—the higher you climb, the tougher and more prestigious the competition becomes.
Step 1: Master the Basics in Division 9 & 8
At this stage, most opponents are also beginners. Use this to your advantage by focusing on fundamentals rather than results.
Learn the Controls
- Practice manual passing instead of relying only on assisted passes.
- Experiment with skill moves in training mode to surprise opponents.
- Focus on defending with positioning instead of sliding tackles.
Experiment With Formations
- Start with simple, balanced setups:
- 4-2-3-1 for stability.
- 4-3-3 for wide attacking play.
- Avoid complex shapes like 3-4-3 until you’re comfortable with stamina management.
Farm GP & Build a Foundation
- Use AI Tour Events to farm GP while practicing.
- Don’t spend coins recklessly—save them for Legendary or Epic players that suit your style.
💡 At this stage, the goal isn’t winning every match—it’s learning how the game feels.
Step 2: Build a Balanced Squad for Division 7 & 6
By now, you’ll face players with more developed squads. To keep pace, your squad balance becomes crucial.
Prioritize These Positions First
- Goalkeeper: Invest in consistency (Casillas, Buffon, Van der Sar).
- Center-Backs: Fast, strong defenders (Van Dijk, Maldini, Beckenbauer).
- Midfield Anchor: A DMF like Casemiro or Vieira to shield your defense.
- Reliable Striker: Choose one main forward (Torres, Eto’o, Haaland).
Squad Depth Matters
You’ll notice stamina draining faster in competitive matches. Build a bench with:
- One extra CB.
- One midfielder.
- One pacey super-sub striker (Inzaghi, Morientes).
👉 A balanced squad ensures you don’t collapse in late matches.
Step 3: Develop Tactical Awareness in Division 5 & 4
At this level, opponents start exploiting weaknesses. To climb, you need tactical flexibility.
Learn Multiple Formations
- 4-2-3-1: For possession and control.
- 4-3-3: For fast counters and wing play.
- 5-2-3: For defensive stability when protecting leads.
Switch formations depending on your opponent’s playstyle.
Stamina Management
- Don’t sprint unnecessarily—save it for critical moments.
- Use Counter-Target on strikers to preserve their stamina.
- Sub wingers and midfielders by the 70th minute to maintain energy.
In-Game Adjustments
- If you’re leading: Drop deeper, switch to a compact block.
- If you’re trailing: Push full-backs higher and add attacking instructions.
- If tied: Stay calm—don’t rush, look for controlled chances.
💡 At this stage, it’s not about flashy goals—it’s about discipline and consistency.
Step 4: Mental Strength in Division 3 & 2
Now the competition feels tough. Matches are often decided by small margins—a single mistake, a single set-piece. This is where psychology comes into play.
Stay Calm After Conceding
- Many players panic after going behind. Stick to your game plan.
- Remember, there’s plenty of time—don’t force risky attacks.
Don’t Get Overconfident
- Leading 2-0 doesn’t mean the game is over. Stay compact.
- Many comebacks happen because players relax too soon.
Emotional Control
- Tilt ruins more matches than tactics.
- Take breaks after tough losses—don’t spam queue.
- Focus on performance, not just outcome.
This mental discipline separates Division 3 players from Division 1 contenders.
Step 5: Breaking Into Division 1
Now you’re facing the best of the best. Everyone has elite squads and knows the game deeply. The difference here is refinement.
Define Your Playstyle
- Possession Player: Control tempo with short passes.
- Counter-Attacker: Use pacey strikers and quick transitions.
- Pressing Player: Force mistakes high up the pitch.
Stick to your identity but remain adaptable.
Optimize Squad Rotation
- Use fresh players for second halves.
- Have specialized subs (Super Subs, defensive closers).
Study Opponents
- Pay attention to their formation—are they wide, narrow, or compact?
- Adjust instructions (marking, pressing) to neutralize their style.
Master Set Pieces
- Penalties, free kicks, and corners decide tight Division 1 matches.
- Practice these regularly in training mode.
Bonus Tips for Faster Climb
- Farm GP Efficiently: Use AI matches during campaigns for multipliers.
- Stay Updated on Meta: After each patch, tactics shift. Adapt quickly.
- Watch Pros: Esports streams show how Division 1 players think.
- Replay Analysis: Watch your replays to spot repeated mistakes.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make
- Relying only on pacey strikers without midfield support.
- Overcommitting defenders, leaving space behind.
- Ignoring stamina and refusing to make subs.
- Copying pro tactics without understanding them.
- Chasing coins instead of saving for key Legends.
Final Thoughts
Reaching Division 1 in eFootball is not about luck—it’s about progression, discipline, and adaptability.
By following this beginner’s roadmap from Division 9 to Division 1, you’ll not only climb divisions but also develop a deeper understanding of tactics, squad management, and mental strength.
Division 1 players aren’t superhuman—they just follow structured strategies and stay consistent. If you remain patient, disciplined, and smart with your resources, you’ll find yourself among the best sooner than you think.
Remember: the climb is a journey—enjoy every step, from Division 9 all the way to Division 1.
