Uploaded Tactic
Formation & Style
Tactical Style:Custom
Mentality:Positive
Formation:4-2-3-1
Team Fluidity:Flexible
In Possession
Pass Into Space
Play Out Of Defence
Low Crosses
Dribble Less
Work Ball Into Box
Be More Disciplined
Focus Play Through The Middle
Overlap Left
Underlap Right
Slightly Higher Tempo
Fairly Narrow
In Transition
Take Short Kicks
Distribute To Full-Backs
Distribute Quickly
Counter
Counter-Press
Out of Possession
Mid Block
Stay On Feet
Trap Inside
Stop Crosses
Team Shape Without Ball
Shape:Mid Block
Description:A compact shape that looks to frustrate the opposition and limit space between the lines.
Evidence:DM - De at [3,3] provides protection to the defensive line.
Team Shape With Ball
Shape:Attacking with width
Description:Utilizing wingers to stretch the opposition while the central players support quick attacks.
Evidence:W - Su at [5,1] and CF - At at [6,2] create space for overlapping full-backs.
Phase Description
Attacking Play
Focus on possession with an emphasis on working the ball into the box, utilizing the width provided by the wings.
Defensive Transition
Counter-pressing tactics to regain possession quickly.
Main Focus
Attacking through the middle with support from midfield, while full-backs provide width.
Key Strengths
Dynamic Attack
The combination of CF and TF provides varied attacking options.
Midfield Control
A strong midfield presence provides balance between defense and attack.
Width and Depth
Full-backs support wingers and provide additional width.
Conflicting Directions
Midfield Crowding
Over-reliance on midfield can lead to crowding, particularly against teams employing a high press.
Vulnerability on Counters
A positive mentality can expose the team to counter-attacks.
Lack of Defensive Depth
Should the full-backs push too far forward, gaps may appear defensively.
Tactical Suggestions
Adjust Full-Back Duties
Consider changing the duty of one full-back to defend to maintain balance.
Utilize Second Striker Role
Employing an Advanced Forward instead of a Complete Forward may enhance attack fluidity.
Implement Sweeper Keeper
Using a Sweeper Keeper might provide extra coverage against opposition counters.
Ask Questions About Your Lineup
Related Tactics
Guides for this formation
The tactical theory behind the 4-2-3-1: roles, instructions, and the trade-offs that decide whether the system holds up.
Player pairings
Midfield Pairs in 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2
Double pivots and flat pairs in 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2: when each pairing works, when it collapses, and the AMC unicorn that rescues both.
Read guide
Playing styles
Gegenpressing: A Full Guide
Klopp-style gegenpressing in FM, including squad profile, line-and-press pairing, sustainable workload, and the antipatterns to avoid.
Read guide