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

Formation and style

Control Possession

Positive

4-2-3-1 Wide

In possession

Play Out of Defence

Shorter Passing

Work Ball Into Box

Overlap on the Left

Overlap on the Right

In transition

Counter-Press

Counter

Out of possession

Higher Defensive Line

Higher Line of Engagement

Prevent Short GK Distribution

Player roles

GK

GK

De

CB

CB

De

CB

CB

De

FB

FB

At

FB

FB

At

DM

DLP

Su

DM

BBM

At

AM

AM

Su

IF

IF

At

IF

IF

At

ST

CF

At

Phase description

Focus on maintaining possession with midfielders facilitating build-up and wide players providing depth.

Quick recovery with counter-press to disrupt opposition play immediately.

Combination play between central midfielders and wide attackers to create goal-scoring opportunities.

Team shape defence

442

Defensive shape sits deeper with stacked midfield and attacking options pressed.

Higher Defensive Line and Higher Line of Engagement coupled with CBs and FBs at their posts.

Team shape attack

4231

Utilizes width from both FBs and wingers, while the central striker plays off the back line.

CF at [6,3] with supporting IFs on either flank and AM positioned centrally.

Key strengths

Attacking Fluidity

The combination of DLP and BBM offers fluid movement and passing options.

DLP-S at [3,3] with 'Play Out of Defence' enhances creative buildup through midfield.

Width Exploitation

FBs and IFs create width, stretching the opposition.

FB-A at [2,1] and [2,5] with overlapping runs from wingers.

Conflicting tactics

Over-Commitment on Attack

In-discipline in forward positions could leave the team vulnerable defensively.

Attacking duties for both FBs and wingers could compromise defensive stability.

Pressing Limitations

With a higher line and counter-pressing, stamina management becomes crucial.

Higher Defensive Line and Higher Line of Engagement increases physical demand on players.

Risk exposures

Risk Exposures

Items

Defensive Vulnerability

Wide/open spaces at the back post due to high FBs.

FB-A at [2,1] and [2,5] may be susceptible to counter-attacks.

Midfield Overlap

Potential for midfield crowding with a DLP and BBM.

Both players in overlapping roles could disengage movement.

Role synergies

Role Synergies

Items

DLP-S and BBM-A

Complement each other's playstyle leading to robust midfield control.

DLP-S at [3,3] supports build-up while BBM exploits spaces ahead.

IF and AM

Creates confusion for opposition defenders through fluid movement.

IFs in [6,2] and [6,4] can interchange with AM at [5,3].

Suggested questions

How can we improve defensive transitions?

Is our midfield too congested?

What are the risks of using higher pressing tactics?