Gegenpress 3-2-2-3 Tactic
3-2-2-3
Utilizing high-intensity pressing to recover the ball quickly. Inside forwards can exploit space behind the opposition's defence.
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Formation and style
Gegenpress
3-2-2-3
In possession
Hold Shape
Be More Expressive
Work Ball Into Box
In transition
Counter-Press
Counter
Out of possession
Higher Defensive Line
Much Higher Line of Engagement
Prevent Short GK Distribution
Player roles
GK
Sweeper Keeper
RDC
Wide Centre-Back
LDC
Wide Centre-Back
DC
Ball-Playing Defender
DM
Defensive Midfielder
MC
Advanced Playmaker
MC
Box-to-Box Midfielder
RWB
Inverted Wing-Back
LWB
Inverted Wing-Back
AMR
Inside Forward
AML
Inside Forward
CF
Complete Forward
Phase description
Quick transitions utilizing width through the inside forwards, with the midfield pressuring opponents and creating space.
Immediate counter-press right after losing possession, forcing opponents into mistakes.
Utilizing high-intensity pressing to recover the ball quickly.
Team shape defence
3-2
Three centre-backs stay compact with two midfielders providing cover and support.
WCB at [2,1] and [2,5] supporting defensive duties.
Team shape attack
3-2-3
Two wide forwards stretch the play, allowing the complete forward to operate centrally.
IF at [6,1] and [6,5] provides width for the attack.
Key strengths
Dynamic Wide Play
Inside forwards can exploit space behind the opposition's defence.
Inside Forward roles at [6,1] and [6,5].
Short Passing through Midfield
The Advanced Playmaker can orchestrate play effectively.
AP at [4,3] with 'Work Ball Into Box'.
Conflicting tactics
Risks Against Fast Counter-attacks
Wide defenders may be caught out of position during quick turnovers.
Inverted Wing-Backs at [2,4] and [2,5] can leave gaps.
Concessions on Set-Pieces
Height and physical presence may be lacking against taller oppositions.
Only two central defenders (WCB) with a lack of height.
Risk exposures
Risk Exposures
Items
Flank Vulnerability
Wide players may expose the formation's structure.
IWB at [5,1] and [5,2] can be vulnerable to counter-play.
Midfield Overload
Opponents may exploit the midfield space with additional runners.
DM at [3,3] can be outnumbered by three advanced players.
Role synergies
Role Synergies
Items
DM and Advanced Playmaker
The DM provides stability, allowing the AP to create.
DM at [3,3] complements AP at [4,3].
Inside Forwards with Complete Forward
IFs create space for CF, enhancing attack flow.
IF roles at [6,1] and [6,5] support the CF at [6,3].
Suggested questions
How can we enhance our set-piece defense?
Should we adjust the mentality against more defensive teams?
What tactical changes can address midfield overload situations?
Related Tactics
More Gegenpress tactics
Guides for this tactic
The tactical theory behind the 3-2-2-3: roles, instructions, and the trade-offs that decide whether the system holds up.
Playing styles
Tiki-Taka vs Positional Play
Why circulation density and zonal occupation aren't the same thing in FM, and the half-space occupation rule that decides build-up.
Read guide
Match preparation
Set Piece Mastery
Routines, takers, and target picks. How to turn corners and free-kicks into a reliable third of your goal output.
Read guide
Match preparation
Game-State Tactics
Protect a 1-0, chase a 1-0, hold a draw away. How to manage game state in FM through duties and roles, not by lurching to Defensive.
Read guide