TacticsPlayersGuides
    About UsContact UsPrivacy PolicyTerms & ConditionsDisclaimer

    Built by someone who had too much extra time on their hands after FM 25 was cancelled

    A product by2nd Foundry2nd Foundry
    1. Home
    2. Tactics
    3. Attacking 4-2-3-1 Wide (Positive) Tactic

    Attacking 4-2-3-1 Wide (Positive) Tactic

    Uploaded Tactic

    4-2-3-1 Wide tactic screenshot

    Formation & Style

    Tactical Style:Attacking
    Mentality:Positive
    Formation:4-2-3-1 Wide
    Team Fluidity:Fluid

    In Possession

    Use Overlap
    Push Higher Up
    Exploit the Flanks

    In Transition

    Counter-Press
    Counter

    Out of Possession

    Higher Defensive Line
    Higher Line of Engagement
    Prevent Short GK Distribution

    Team Shape Without Ball

    Shape:4-4-2 Narrow
    Description:Compact shape limiting space for central penetration.
    Evidence:Two banks of four with close proximity between lines.

    Team Shape With Ball

    Shape:4-2-3-1 Wide
    Description:Utilizing width to create crossing opportunities and overloads in wide areas.
    Evidence:Wingers positioned high and wide, with CAM linking play.

    Phase Description

    Attacking Play

    Focus on wide play with wingers stretching the opposition and an advanced playmaker supporting the striker.

    Defensive Transition

    Quickly regroup with a focus on high pressing to regain possession.

    Main Focus

    Create goal-scoring opportunities through width and attacking movement.

    Key Strengths

    Width in Attack

    Utilizing wingers to stretch the defensive line and create crossing opportunities.

    Dynamic Midfield

    Combination of Box-to-Box Midfielder and Deep-Lying Playmaker allows for both defensive solidity and attacking support.

    Advanced Forward Movement

    Advanced Forward can exploit spaces left by defenders, benefiting from midfield runners.

    Conflicting Directions

    High Defensive Line Risk

    Can be exposed to counter-attacks if defenders are caught out of position.

    Dependency on Wingers

    Over-reliance on wingers might lead to vulnerabilities if they’re contained.

    Transition Management

    Quick transitions can expose the defense, requiring balance.

    Tactical Suggestions

    Consider a Shadow Striker

    Adding a Shadow Striker could offer more attacking threat in the final third.

    Adjust Defensive Line if Exposed

    If countered frequently, consider lowering the defensive line.

    Incorporate Quick Circulation

    Encouraging faster ball movement can unsettle opponent defenses.

    Ask Questions About Your Lineup

    01:34 AM

    Related Tactics

    4-2-3-1 Wide tactic

    4-2-3-1 Wide Formation

    Attacking

    4-2-3-1 Wide tactic

    4-2-3-1 Wide Formation

    Balanced

    4-2-3-1 Wide tactic

    4-2-3-1 Wide Formation

    Positive

    4-2-3-1 Wide tactic

    4-2-3-1 Wide Formation

    Custom Wing Play

    Guides for this formation

    The tactical theory behind the 4-2-3-1 Wide: 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