Summary: The final cycle of EA Sports FC 26 has just received a massive shake-up. Hot on the heels of the Ultimate Rewind promo launched on August 21, EA surprise-dropped the high-stakes Ultimate Rewind Gauntlet objective line on August 24, 2026.
The ultimate prize? A spectacular 98 OVR Ultimate Rewind Riccardo Calafiori card, alongside a massive 91+ x5 Rare Gold Players Pack to stack your endgame squad.
With Calafiori boasting maxed-out defending traits, incredible physical stats, and top-tier PlayStyles, he is the definitive endgame left-back (LB) or center-back (CB) for your Ultimate Team. However, the objective requires you to complete 8 out of 10 difficult gauntlet challenges, including specific scoring, assisting, and clean sheet requirements in competitive modes.
Here is your ultimate tactical breakdown and the fastest hybrid squad build to complete the Calafiori Gauntlet in the absolute minimum number of matches.
Calafiori Gauntlet Objectives & Rewards Breakdown
To unlock the 98 OVR Calafiori, you only need to complete 8 out of the 10 available milestones listed in the Ultimate Rewind Gauntlet menu. The sub-rewards along the way are fantastic for farming high-rated fodder:
Italian Rock: Score using an Italian player in 3 separate matches (Reward: 85+ x2 Pack).
Premier League Precision: Assist 5 goals using Premier League players (Reward: 86+ x2 Pack).
Serie A Maestro: Score and Assist using Serie A players in the same match 3 times (Reward: 87+ x2 Pack).
Wall of Defense: Keep 3 Clean Sheets in Rivals, Champions, or Squad Battles (Min. Semi-Pro) (Reward: 88+ OVR Player).
The Perfect 10: Score at least 2 goals per match in 4 separate victories (Reward: 89+ x2 Pack).
(Remaining milestones include general win tallies, finesse goal counts, and specific squad-rating thresholds).
The "Fastest Way" Hybrid Squad Blueprint (Combine & Conquer)
Do not make the mistake of grinding these objectives separately. You can combine the Premier League, Serie A, and Italian nation requirements into one single powerhouse hybrid lineup.
By using the squad composition below, you can theoretically trigger 5 to 6 objectives simultaneously in your very first match, cutting your total grind time by more than 60%.
Recommended Starter Squad Configuration:
Strikers (ST): An Italian Serie A Forward (e.g., FUTTIES Retegui or Chiesa) paired with a Premier League Forward.
Midfielders (CAM/CM): At least two Premier League Playmakers (e.g., Rewind Bruno Fernandes or De Bruyne) to lock down the "Premier League Precision" assists.
Wingers/Side Mids: Italian or Serie A wingers with high passing stats.
Defense (CB/LB/RB): Pack your strongest endgame backline to easily secure the 3 Clean Sheets.
If you need to make final squad adjustments or complete additional SBC requirements, managing your FC 26 Coins efficiently can help you avoid wasting valuable endgame resources.
In-Game Checklist Per Match:
Step 1: Use your Premier League midfielder to assist your Serie A striker. (Progresses: PL Assists & Serie A Score/Assist).
Step 2: Have an Italian player score a goal. (Progresses: Italian Rock).
Step 3: Score a second goal with anyone and ensure you win the match. (Progresses: The Perfect 10 & Win counters).
Step 4: Pass the ball around the back safely to secure a Clean Sheet.
Pro Tips to Speed Up the Grind
Drop down to Squad Battles: If you want a stress-free grind, complete this entirely in Squad Battles on Minimum Semi-Pro difficulty. You can comfortably score your required goals in the first half and let the timer run out while maintaining a clean sheet.
Skip the Hardest Milestones: Since you only need 8 out of 10, skip the milestones that require a 92+ Rated First-Owner Squad if you don't have the club depth, or bypass the high-win streaks if you run out of time.
Golden Goal in Friendly Modes: If you choose to attempt this in Live FUT Friendlies, change your team name to "Golden Goal." Many community players will golden-goal forfeit after the first objective is met, speeding up your matches significantly.
Get your hybrid squad ready and unlock 98 Calafiori before the Gauntlet expires!
