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

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

    Uploaded Tactic

    4-2-3-1 Wide tactic screenshot

    Formation & Style

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

    In Possession

    Pass Into Space
    Play Out Of Defence
    Whipped Crosses
    Work Ball Into Box
    Be More Expressive
    Higher Tempo

    In Transition

    Distribute To Centre-Backs
    Distribute To Full-Backs
    Counter
    Counter-Press

    Out of Possession

    Much Higher Defensive Line
    High Press
    Much More Often Prevent Short GK Distribution
    Get Stuck In
    Step Up More

    Team Shape Without Ball

    Shape:4-2
    Description:A compact shape with two holding midfielders providing cover for the back line in a high defensive setup.
    Evidence:BWM-D at [3,3] and AP-S at [3,4] support the defence.

    Team Shape With Ball

    Shape:3-2-1
    Description:An attacking shape with three players in advanced positions supported by two in midfield, allowing for varied attacking options.
    Evidence:Advanced Forward at [6,3], Inside Forward at [6,2], and Attacking Midfielder at [5,3] maximize space.

    Phase Description

    Attacking Play

    The team focuses on utilizing width through the use of Inside Forwards and Wing-Backs, complemented by a positive mentality to encourage forward play.

    Defensive Transition

    Upon losing possession, the team quickly counters with a high pressing system to regain the ball, supported by a higher defensive line.

    Main Focus

    Utilizing the attacking width to create space in central areas for goal-scoring opportunities.

    Key Strengths

    Goals Scored Location

    Effective at scoring through the Central area of the penalty box, reflecting high conversion.

    Opposition Long-Range Shots

    Efficiently limits long-range shots from opponents, reducing threat levels.

    Touches to Goals Ratio

    High conversion rate from touches in the penalty area to goals.

    Conflicting Directions

    Long-Range Shots

    Struggles with allowing long-range shots against, indicating a potential weakness in defensive coverage.

    Lost Possession

    Team occasionally loses possession too frequently, risking counter-attacks.

    Weak Influence

    Some players may frequently underperform or lack impact in matches.

    Tactical Suggestions

    Enhance Defensive Depth

    Consider adjusting roles to include more defensively minded players to handle opposition counter-attacks effectively.

    Balance Attacking Width

    Ensure consistent overlapping play from Full-Backs to create width while maintaining central control.

    Maintain Possession

    Implement more short passing options to minimize lost possession incidents.

    Ask Questions About Your Lineup

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    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
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    Gegenpressing: A Full Guide

    Klopp-style gegenpressing in FM, including squad profile, line-and-press pairing, sustainable workload, and the antipatterns to avoid.

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