pace is still important, through balls and wingplay being where it really shines. i mean whenever i put a fast RM or LM through they always complete their cross.
you cannot really take on a player without being silky on the ball, that's why is you sprint like last year you fail.
as for formations, i just cannot get one that "feels" right.
passing is important or you can simply run down the wings and spam crosses to a striker with good heading stats.
as for quality players:
Diamanti, Courtois, Pepe (the animal), Costa (the animal v.2.0), Godin, Benat (set piece whizz), Rakitic, Milito, Pandev, Barzagli, Campagnaro, Benatia, Mexes, Abbiati
they have all stood out.
http://www.futwiz.com/en/player/benat/155
this guy has the best free kick stats i have seen so far from everyone i have used, they are all around 90 ish in game