EA Sports has officially released Ultimate Gauntlet 5 in FC 26 Ultimate Team, and it’s easily one of the best value objective sets of the entire cycle. Whether you want free packs, coins, EVO consumables, or the featured 86 OVR Moments Lukas Podolski, this mode is a simple and efficient way to boost your club.
This comprehensive guide covers all Gauntlet 5 task, reward, and the fastest strategy to complete Gauntlet 5 in a short time.
What Is Ultimate Gauntlet 5 in FC 26?
Ultimate Gauntlet 5 is a limited-time objective set that rewards players simply for playing matches in the special Gauntlet playlist and scoring at least one goal in multiple different games. There are no restrictive squad rules or tough win conditions. You just enter the correct mode, play your matches, and progress naturally as long as you score in most of them.
Completing all nine tasks unlocks a wide range of packs, coin bonuses, EVO consumables, and the featured Podolski item. For anyone trying to build up their club early in the FC 26 cycle, this is one of the best opportunities so far.
How to Start Ultimate Gauntlet 5
You can access it directly from FC 26 Ultimate Team menus:
- Open Ultimate Team
- Navigate to the Objectives tab
- Enter the Live / Seasonal Events section
- Select Ultimate Gauntlet 5
- Enter the dedicated Gauntlet 5 play mode
Tip:
- Only matches played in the correct Gauntlet 5 playlist will count.
- Division Rivals, Champions, or Friendlies won’t progress the objectives.
All Ultimate Gauntlet 5 Tasks and Rewards
Here’s the full breakdown of every challenge and its reward:
Match Objectives
| Task | Requirement | Reward |
|---|---|---|
| Play 1 | Play 1 match | 2× 81+ Rare Gold Players Pack |
| Play 2 | Play 2 matches | 3× 81+ Rare Gold Players Pack |
| Play 3 | Play 3 matches | 7× 80+ Rare Gold Players Pack |
| Play 12 | Play 12 matches | 1× 85–89 Rare Gold Players Pack |
Scoring Objectives
| Task | Requirement | Reward |
|---|---|---|
| Score in 3 | Score in 3 different matches | EVO Consumable (DLP+ EVO) |
| Score in 5 | Score in 5 different matches | 5,000 Coins |
| Score in 6 | Score in 6 different matches | 85–87 Rare Gold Player Pack |
| Score in 7 | Score in 7 different matches | EVO Unlock (Bruiser+ EVO) |
| Score in 9 | Score in 9 different matches | 10× 83+ Rare Gold Players Pack |
Final Group Reward
Complete all tasks to unlock:
- 86 OVR Moments Lukas Podolski
- Podolski Reward Overview (86 OVR Moments)
This special Podolski item is the highlight of the Gauntlet—and completely free.
Key Features:
- Overall Rating: 86
- Position: Attacking forward (striker or wide roles)
- PlayStyles: Power Shot+, Low Driven Shot, Gamechanger
Strengths:
- Elite long-range shooting
- Physical presence
- High shot power
For early-season meta squads, Podolski’s shooting and playstyles make him a reliable finisher in Rivals, Champs, and Gauntlet modes.
Since all you need to do is play 12 matches and score in several of them, this is essentially a free elite attacker.
Best Tips to Finish Ultimate Gauntlet 5 fast
Although Gauntlet 5 is simple, these strategies help you finish in under 90 minutes.
Build a Balanced and Reliable Squad
You don’t need a superteam—just players with:
- Good pace on wings
- Strong finishing (Shot Power, Finishing, Long Shots)
- Midfielders who can keep possession
If your club is empty or you’re starting late, pick up some budget meta players or invest coins smartly to smooth the grind.
Score Early in Every Game
Since almost every scoring objective depends on unique matches, focus on getting the first goal.
Use:
- Quick through balls
- Timed runs
- The Power Shot mechanic
- Players with Finishing-boosting PlayStyles
Once you score, you can relax or push for the win depending on how the match feels.
Winning Doesn’t Matter
You can lose 12 straight matches and still complete the entire objective set.
Progress only depends on:
- Matches played
- Number of matches scored in
Stay calm, create at least one clear chance, and don’t stress about the result.
Stack Objectives Efficiently
Every match progresses multiple tasks at once.
For example: scoring in your 5th match advances all of these:
- Play 1 / Play 2 / Play 3 / Play 12
- Score in 3 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 9
Aim to score in every match you play and you’ll finish everything by the 12th game.
Play With a Stable Connection
To avoid wasted matches:
- Don’t queue if your ping indicator is red
- Avoid unstable Wi-Fi moments
- Always finish the match for progress to count
EVO Consumables From Ultimate Gauntlet 5
Gauntlet 5 gives two valuable EVO-related rewards:
- DLP+ EVO (Score in 3)
- Bruiser+ EVO Unlock (Score in 7)
EVO upgrades allow you to enhance:
- Player ratings
- Attributes
- PlayStyles
Before using them, check the EVO hub to see which players benefit most—you may create a top-tier untradeable card for your club.
Maximizing Packs and ea fc Coins from Gauntlet 5
The rewards from this objective set offer excellent value relative to the 12-match requirement.
Open Packs at Smart Times
You’ll earn packs including:
- 80+
- 81+
- 83+ x10
- 85–87
- 85–89
To maximize value:
- Open packs during promo teams
- Save high-rated packs for major events
- Use fodder toward profitable SBCs
Manage Coins Efficiently
Between the 5,000 FUT Coin reward, pack pulls, and discard value, Gauntlet 5 gives a solid boost.
Reinvest coins into:
- Meta strikers / wingers
- Strong CDMs or CBs
- SBCs offering high pack value
Supplement With External fc 26 Coins
Some FUT players use external marketplaces like mrgeek.net to speed up squad building. If you choose to go this route, always use reputable platforms and follow EA’s rules to protect your account. If you need to have more FC Coins check MrGeek and buy cheapest FIFA 26 Coins there.
Why Ultimate Gauntlet 5 Is Worth Completing
Ultimate Gauntlet 5 offers an excellent mix of gameplay, rewards, and long-term value. It requires only 12 matches, does not force you to win, and provides some of the best packs currently available in FC 26. With two EVO items included and a free Moments Podolski waiting at the end, this event is a perfect opportunity for both casual players and competitive grinders to strengthen their clubs—especially with Black Friday and upcoming promos on the horizon.
