The ways to improve are in how you defend -- timing your tackles, tracking the runs, intercepting passes, and learning to 2nd man pressure without moving your defensive line. Secondly, the way you build up; how you pass and what type of pass you use does help a lot. Lastly, the way you finish; what type of shot you take will also be a crucial step in ensuring you are able to score your chances.
You don't want to play this game blind and then be disappointed you weren't able to win.
There is definitely a meta in this game; some players work better than others, and you abusing the meta is ultimately what will determine your level of success in this game.