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

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

    Uploaded Tactic

    4-2-3-1 Wide tactic screenshot

    Formation & Style

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

    In Possession

    Shorter Passing
    Play Out Of Defence
    Run At Defence
    Overlap Left
    Overlap Right
    Higher Tempo
    Fairly Narrow

    In Transition

    Roll It Out
    Distribute To Centre-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:4-2-3-1
    Description:A compact and aggressive shape aimed at restoring possession quickly.
    Evidence:High defensive line and pressing intend to suffocate opponent attacks.

    Team Shape With Ball

    Shape:4-2-3-1
    Description:Utilizes wide areas for effective overlapping runs and midfield support.
    Evidence:Overlap instructions indicate an intent to exploit flanks.

    Phase Description

    Attacking Play

    Team relies on quick ball movement with width provided by FBs and wings.

    Defensive Transition

    Pressing high up the pitch and looking to win the ball back quickly.

    Main Focus

    Utilizing the pace of wingers and the central AM to penetrate defenses.

    Key Strengths

    Attacking Width

    Utilization of wide areas via FBs and wingers creates imbalance in opposition.

    High Press

    High pressing aimed at regaining possession quickly can disrupt opponents.

    Dynamic Forward Line

    Combining different attacking roles leverages players' attributes efficiently.

    Conflicting Directions

    Higher Defensive Line vs. High Temperament Play

    Exposed to counter-attacks due to pressing higher while having a higher line.

    Shorter Passing with High Tempo

    Could lead to errors in build-up, especially against teams with pressing.

    Overlap Instructions with an Attacking Mentality

    Could leave gaps at the back if wingers fail to track back.

    Tactical Suggestions

    Adjust Defensive Line

    Consider lowering the defensive line to reduce vulnerability against fast counter-attacks.

    Alter Role for Central Midfielder

    Utilize a playmaker role for better distribution considering shorter passing.

    Rotate Winger Duties

    Alternate duties between IFs and Wingers for varied attacking threats.

    Ask Questions About Your Lineup

    04:09 AM

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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
    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.

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