FC 25 Lilian Thuram: The Relentless Defender in Ultimate Team™ Icon

EA SPORTS FC™ 25 welcomes Lilian Thuram, one of football’s greatest defenders, to its Icons roster. Thuram’s remarkable performances during France’s 1998 FIFA World Cup™ triumph, coupled with his extraordinary club career, have cemented his legacy as one of the best to ever play the game. Known for his defensive versatility, strength, and intelligence, Thuram was a key figure in both club and international football for over a decade. With his addition to FC 25, players can now experience the grit and determination of one of football’s most iconic defenders in Ultimate Team™.

Fc 25 Lillian Thuram

Lilian Thuram’s Heroics in the 1998 FIFA World Cup™

The defining moment of Thuram’s career came during the 1998 FIFA World Cup™, where he played an instrumental role in France’s historic triumph on home soil. Thuram, who primarily played as a right-back, showcased his defensive mastery throughout the tournament, but it was his performance in the semi-final against Croatia that made him a legend.

In a thrilling match, Croatia took a 1-0 lead, and France’s World Cup hopes were in jeopardy. But Thuram, known more for his defensive prowess than his goal-scoring abilities, rose to the occasion. He scored two magnificent goals to turn the match around, leading France to a 2-1 victory and securing their place in the final. Thuram’s brace was not only the first two goals of his international career, but also the only two goals he ever scored for France. His heroics in that match remain one of the most iconic moments in World Cup history.

Thuram’s contributions didn’t stop there. His consistent performances earned him the Bronze Ball, awarded to the third-best player of the tournament, as France went on to defeat Brazil 3-0 in the final to lift their first-ever FIFA World Cup™.

A Career of Club Success

Beyond his international achievements, Thuram enjoyed a highly successful club career, playing for top European teams and winning numerous titles.

UEFA Cup with Parma (1998-99): Thuram’s time with Parma was a critical period in his development as a top defender. In the 1998-99 season, he helped Parma secure the UEFA Cup, one of the most prestigious European trophies at the time. His performances at Parma caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs and paved the way for his move to Juventus.
Juventus Dominance: Thuram joined Juventus in 2001, where he further established himself as one of the world’s best defenders. At Juve, Thuram helped the team win two Serie A titles, forming a formidable defensive line alongside players like Gianluigi Buffon. His time at Juventus was marked by tactical brilliance, as Thuram was able to play both as a right-back and center-back with equal proficiency, providing flexibility to the team’s backline.
UEFA EURO 2000 Triumph: Thuram was also instrumental in France’s victory at UEFA EURO 2000. His defensive solidity and experience helped France become the first team to hold both the FIFA World Cup™ and the UEFA European Championship titles simultaneously. His contributions to the French national team during this period solidified his reputation as one of the best defenders of his generation.

Lilian Thuram in EA SPORTS FC™ 25 Icons

Thuram’s inclusion in the EA SPORTS FC™ 25 Icons lineup brings his legendary defensive skills to Ultimate Team™. Known for his relentless work rate, physicality, and ability to read the game, Thuram offers players a world-class defensive option capable of neutralizing even the most potent attacking threats.

Key attributes of Lilian Thuram as an Icon in FC 25:

Defensive Intelligence: Thuram’s tactical awareness and ability to read the game were second to none. His positioning and decision-making allowed him to make crucial interceptions and blocks, traits that will make him a dominant force in any Ultimate Team™ defense.
Physical Strength and Speed: Thuram’s blend of speed and physicality allowed him to keep up with the fastest attackers while also winning aerial duels and physical battles. His versatility to play both right-back and center-back provides flexibility to any squad.
Big-Game Mentality: Thuram was at his best in high-pressure situations, as shown in the 1998 FIFA World Cup™ semi-final. This mentality translates to the virtual pitch, where Thuram can be relied upon in key moments to make game-saving tackles or shut down dangerous attacks.
Versatility: Thuram’s ability to play multiple positions across the backline makes him a valuable asset. Whether deployed as a full-back or a central defender, Thuram’s adaptability makes him indispensable in Ultimate Team™.

Legacy Beyond the Pitch

Beyond his footballing achievements, Lilian Thuram has become a respected figure for his advocacy on social and political issues. After retiring from professional football, Thuram has used his platform to promote education and raise awareness about racism and inequality. His contributions off the pitch have only further cemented his status as a role model and icon in the world of sport.

EA SPORTS FC™ 25 Icons: Celebrating Legends of the Game

Lilian Thuram’s addition to FC 25 is part of the game’s commitment to honoring the legends of football. As part of a diverse class of Icons, Thuram joins a list of all-time greats from both the men’s and women’s games, celebrating their contributions to the sport. Thuram’s legacy as a key figure in France’s golden generation, his success at the club level, and his iconic World Cup performance make him a standout addition to this year’s Icons roster.

The introduction of five groundbreaking Icons from women’s football in EA SPORTS FC™ 25 also highlights the game’s dedication to inclusivity and representation. By recognizing the pioneers who have shaped both the men’s and women’s games, FC 25 offers players the chance to build dream squads featuring football’s greatest talents from across eras and competitions.

Conclusion

Lilian Thuram’s inclusion in the EA SPORTS FC™ 25 Icons lineup is a fitting tribute to a player whose career was defined by excellence, consistency, and resilience. Whether you’re reliving his unforgettable brace against Croatia in the 1998 FIFA World Cup™ or replicating his defensive heroics from his time at Juventus, Thuram brings unparalleled defensive ability to your Ultimate Team™ squad.

As one of the greatest defenders in the history of the sport, Thuram’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations, and his presence in FC 25 ensures that players can experience the brilliance of his career on the virtual pitch. Build your defense around this legendary figure and bring the heart of France’s 1998 World Cup-winning team to life in Ultimate Team™.