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. Vertical Tiki-Taka 4-2-4 DM Wide (Positive) Tactic

    Vertical Tiki-Taka 4-2-4 DM Wide (Positive) Tactic

    Uploaded Tactic

    4-2-4 DM Wide tactic screenshot

    Formation & Style

    Tactical Style:Custom Vertical Tiki-Taka
    Mentality:Positive
    Formation:4-2-4 DM Wide
    Team Fluidity:Structured

    In Possession

    Much Shorter Passing
    Play Out Of Defence
    Work Ball Into Box
    Be More Expressive
    Focus Play Down The Left
    Overlap Left
    Slightly Lower Tempo
    Wide

    In Transition

    Distribute To Centre-Backs
    Hold Shape
    Counter-Press

    Out of Possession

    Much Higher Defensive Line
    High Press
    More Often Step Up
    Trap Outside

    Team Shape Without Ball

    Shape:4-2
    Description:Defensive line remains compact with two holding midfielders providing cover.
    Evidence:CD at [2,3] with BPD at [2,2] and two DMs directly in front.

    Team Shape With Ball

    Shape:4-2-4
    Description:Width from the wing-backs and wingers allows for stretching defenses and creating space.
    Evidence:Dynamic forwards with overlapping runs from CWB at [2,1] and AM roles creating varied attacking threats.

    Phase Description

    Attacking Play

    Utilizes width effectively with wing-backs and wide playmakers creating chances.

    Defensive Transition

    Relies on quick recovery with counter-pressing to regain possession.

    Main Focus

    Play down the left while ensuring structured buildup to maintain possession.

    Key Strengths

    Width in Attack

    Effective use of wide players to stretch opposition defenses.

    Ball Retention

    Short passing and possession-focused play ensure stability.

    Defensive Solidity

    Two defensive midfielders create a robust shield in front of the backline.

    Conflicting Directions

    High Line vs. Quick Breaks

    The high defensive line may leave gaps against direct and fast counter-attacks.

    Inverted Wing-Backs vs. Width

    Using inverted wing-backs can limit width if not supported by wingers.

    Expressive Play vs. Risk

    Be more expressive can lead to risky turnovers, especially in transitional phases.

    Tactical Suggestions

    Consider Adjusting Defensive Line

    To prevent vulnerability to counter-attacks, lowering the line may be beneficial.

    Utilize Rotation Among Midfielders

    Encourage DMs to rotate with CAM to create overloads in attack.

    Enhance Width with Wingers

    Consider converting some roles to widen the attacking threat.

    Ask Questions About Your Lineup

    01:36 AM

    Related Tactics

    4-2-4 DM Wide tactic

    4-2-4 DM Wide Formation

    Gegenpress

    4-2-4 DM Wide tactic

    4-2-4 DM Wide Formation

    Custom

    4-2-4 DM Wide tactic

    4-2-4 DM Wide Formation

    Custom

    4-2-4 DM Wide tactic

    4-2-4 DM Wide Formation

    Gegenpress

    Guides for this formation

    The tactical theory behind the 4-2-4 DM Wide: roles, instructions, and the trade-offs that decide whether the system holds up.

    Playing styles

    Direct, Vertical Football

    Long-ball football done well in FM. When direct, vertical play is the right choice, and what the Direct Passing TI actually changes.

    Read guide