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. Positional Play 5-2-3 (Balanced) Tactic

    Positional Play 5-2-3 (Balanced) Tactic

    Uploaded Tactic

    5-2-3 tactic screenshot

    Formation & Style

    Tactical Style:Positional Play
    Mentality:Balanced
    Formation:5-2-3
    Team Fluidity:Flexible

    In Possession

    Focus Play Through the Middle

    In Transition

    Counter-Press

    Out of Possession

    Lower Defensive Line
    Medium Block

    Team Shape Without Ball

    Shape:5-4-1
    Description:A structured defense that stays compact to minimize space for the opposing team.
    Evidence:5 defenders with a medium block setup.

    Team Shape With Ball

    Shape:3-4-3
    Description:Dynamic attacking shape with width from the wing-backs and high pressing from forwards.
    Evidence:Two inside forwards and a central striker supported by the wing-backs.

    Phase Description

    Attacking Play

    Utilizes the width with wing-backs pushing high, creating overloads in wide areas.

    Defensive Transition

    Rapidly transition to a defensive shape focusing on maintaining compactness.

    Main Focus

    Control the midfield while exploiting spaces left by opponents.

    Key Strengths

    Strong Defensive Core

    The three central defenders provide stability and cover, minimizing opponent opportunities.

    Wide Attacking Options

    Wing-backs provide additional width, allowing for varied attacking plays.

    Pressing and Transition

    Quick transitions with a counter-press emphasize recovery and immediate ball control.

    Conflicting Directions

    Vulnerability to Counter-Attacks

    With wing-backs pushed high, defensive transitions can expose the backline.

    Midfield Lacking Depth

    Two central midfielders may struggle against three-man midfields from opponents.

    Limited Width in Defensive Phase

    Inside forwards could hinder defensive stability if not tracking back effectively.

    Tactical Suggestions

    Consider Adjusting Midfield Roles

    A more dynamic midfield role could help maintain possession and control against stronger opposition.

    Exploit Full-Backs More

    Encouraging full-backs to overlap could enhance width and creativity in attack.

    Monitor Defensive Shape Transition

    Ensure wing-backs are instructed to minimize gaps on transition to avoid vulnerabilities.

    Ask Questions About Your Lineup

    01:35 AM

    Related Tactics

    5-2-3 tactic

    5-2-3 Formation

    Control Possession

    5-2-3 tactic

    5-2-3 Formation

    Balanced

    5-2-3 tactic

    5-2-3 Formation

    Personalizado

    5-2-3 tactic

    5-2-3 Formation

    Positional Play

    Guides for this formation

    The tactical theory behind the 5-2-3: roles, instructions, and the trade-offs that decide whether the system holds up.

    Playing styles

    Low Block: Park the Bus

    The deliberate underdog tactic in FM: formation choices, duty distribution, and why Counter-Press is exactly wrong inside a low block.

    Read guide