FC 26 96 Rivellino & 95 Mario Kempes Review: Are They Worth the Coins in Ultimate Team?

The FC 26 Ultimate Team "Greats of the Game" campaign is in full swing, introducing two brand-new ICONs: 96-rated Rivellino and 95-rated Mario Kempes. With elite stats, premium PlayStyles, and strong links to the current gameplay meta, many players are wondering whether these cards justify their hefty price tags. Here's a complete breakdown of their strengths, weaknesses, and market outlook.

Greats of the Game Brings Two Legendary ICONs

As the summer Festival of Football promotion continues in EA SPORTS FC 26, the Ultimate Team transfer market has been shaken up by the arrival of two football legends.

Brazilian playmaker Rivellino (96 OVR) and Argentine striker Mario Kempes (95 OVR) have received heavily upgraded "Greats of the Game" ICON items, immediately becoming some of the most sought-after cards in Ultimate Team.

Their impressive ratings and unique PlayStyle combinations have already made them popular choices in Champions and Division Rivals, but do they truly live up to the hype?

96 Rivellino Review: The Samba Magician

Primary Positions: LW / CAM

Rivellino arrives with one of the most desirable combinations in FC 26: 5-star Skill Moves and 5-star Weak Foot, giving players maximum creativity in the attacking third.

Strengths

Elite Dribbling: His 97 Dribbling combined with Technical+ makes him exceptionally smooth when weaving through defenders in tight spaces.

Explosive Shooting: Equipped with 98 Shot Power and Power Shot+, Rivellino can unleash devastating strikes from outside the penalty area.

Versatility: Comfortable operating as either a wide playmaker or a central attacking midfielder, fitting multiple tactical systems.

Verdict

For players who rely on close control, skill moves, and long-range finishing, Rivellino is one of the most complete attacking ICONs currently available.

95 Mario Kempes Review: The Pampas Bull

Primary Positions: ST / CF

Inspired by the legendary Argentine forward, Kempes is designed as a physically dominant striker who thrives in direct attacking football.

Strengths

Aerial Dominance: Thanks to Aerial+, he is a major threat from crosses, set pieces, and lofted through balls.

Strong Hold-Up Play: His physical presence allows him to shield the ball effectively against top-tier center-backs.

Aggressive Positioning: Kempes consistently makes dangerous attacking runs and excels as the focal point in two-striker formations.

Verdict

Players who prefer crossing tactics or a traditional target-man style will find Kempes to be an outstanding option capable of bullying defenses.

Transfer Market Strategy: Buy Now or Wait?

Both cards currently command a premium price on the transfer market. If you have a multi-million budget and need an elite winger or a physical striker to unlock a tough weekend league, spending your hard-earned FC 26 Coins on these players will instantly upgrade your squad.

However, more budget-conscious managers may benefit from waiting. EA has confirmed that the Base ICON versions of Rivellino and Kempes will enter standard packs on Friday, June 26, a change that could create substantial volatility in the transfer market and potentially lower prices for their special items.

In the meantime, players can continue using free rewards such as the 93-rated Pelé or invest in live Evolution upgrades while monitoring market movements.

Final Verdict

96 Rivellino: An elite technical attacker with exceptional dribbling, shooting, and creativity, making him ideal for skill-heavy and possession-based playstyles.

95 Mario Kempes: A powerful, physical striker who excels in aerial duels, hold-up play, and clinical finishing inside the box.

Market Advice: Competitive players seeking instant upgrades may find them worth the investment, while traders and budget squads should consider waiting until additional ICON supply enters packs later this week.