Maccabi Tel Aviv's Leo Varela Earns Historic Special Card in EA FC26 Ahead of World Cup Clash

Leo Varela, midfielder for Maccabi Tel Aviv, made history as the first player from the Israeli Premier League to score in a World Cup, netting a crucial goal for Cape Verde in their 2-2 draw against Uruguay during the 2026 tournament group stage. This milestone was further recognized in the popular video game EA FC26, where Varela received a unique special card, a first for any player while active in the Israeli league.

The special card is obtainable exclusively through the Squad Building Challenges (SBC) mode in Ultimate Team, requiring players to assemble a high-rated squad with an average rating of 90 and two additional squads averaging 89. Completing this challenge can cost upwards of 84,000 in-game coins. The card is part of the SHOWDOWN series, released ahead of major matches, and in this case, it features a head-to-head between Cape Verde and Argentina in the round of 32, scheduled for the night between Friday and Saturday.

Players can predict the match outcome to earn the card, which will be upgraded based on the result: a draw adds one point to all cards, while a win grants the victorious team's player a three-point boost and an additional special ability. Varela's card currently boasts an impressive 93 rating out of 99, with standout stats including 97 pace, 93 dribbling, 92 shooting, and 90 physicality, plus five-star weak foot skill. His special abilities include curling shots, first-touch precision, and acceleration.

Previously, two other Israeli Premier League players, Christian Martinez from Kiryat Shmona and former Maccabi Haifa player Frantzi Piero, also received special cards in the World Cup-themed Path To Glory edition, each rated 92. Varela’s inclusion highlights the growing recognition of Israeli league talent on the global stage and in esports.