Gegenpress 3-2-2-3 Tactic
3-2-2-3
Utilize the wide areas effectively to stretch the opposition. The front three (IF, CF, IF) provide varied attacking options and movement.
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Formation and style
Gegenpress
3-2-2-3
In possession
Pass Into Space
Be More Expressive
Overlapping on the Left
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
Support
CB
Ball-Playing Defender
Defend
CB
No-Nonsense Centre-Back
Defend
CB
No-Nonsense Centre-Back
Defend
DM
Roaming Playmaker
Support
CM
Advanced Playmaker
Support
AM
Shadow Striker
Attack
IW
Inside Forward
Attack
IF
Inside Forward
Attack
CF
Complete Forward
Attack
Phase description
Focus on fast transitions and exploiting space behind the opposition.
Immediate pressing to regain possession upon losing the ball.
Utilize the wide areas effectively to stretch the opposition.
Team shape defence
Compact
Three central defenders with a higher line of engagement to compact the space.
CB at [2,2], CB at [2,3], CB at [2,4], Higher Defensive Line
Team shape attack
Fluid
Three forwards with overlapping runs creating space and opportunities.
IF at [5,1], CF at [6,3], IF at [5,5], Overlapping on the Left
Key strengths
Dynamic Attack
The front three (IF, CF, IF) provide varied attacking options and movement.
IF-A at [5,1], CF-A at [6,3], IF-A at [5,5]
Defensive Solidity
Three quality defenders ensure stability at the back while supporting midfield pressure.
CB at [2,2] (BPD), CB at [2,3] (NCB), CB at [2,4] (NCB)
Conflicting tactics
Lack of Width
Focusing heavily on the central areas could make the team predictable.
High concentration of players in the central spaces.
Overreliance on Pressing
Heavy pressing may tire players quickly, leading to gaps in defense.
Gegenpress with high engagement might reduce endurance.
Risk exposures
Risk Exposures
Items
Defensive Setup
High defensive line can be vulnerable to balls over the top.
Higher Defensive Line with no pacey cover.
Midfield Control
Potential lack of a holding midfielder might expose the defense.
Single DM with no dedicated defensive duties.
Role synergies
Role Synergies
Items
Roaming Playmaker & Advanced Playmaker
Together they can dynamically control the game and provide creative passes.
RP-S at [3,3] with AP-S at [4,3]
Inside Forward & Complete Forward
IFs can create space, allowing the CF to exploit them for goal-scoring opportunities.
CF-A at [6,3] supported by IF at [5,1] and IF at [5,5]
Suggested questions
How can we diversify our attacking approaches?
What adjustments can ensure we maintain defensive shape?
Should we consider alternating player roles during matches?
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.
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Match preparation
Reading the Match Tablet
Pass map, average position, xG, possession by zone: what each tablet panel tells you in FM and the tactical change it should trigger.
Read guide
Foundations
FM27 Tactics: What Changed from FM26
FM27 keeps FM26's tactic system. Here is what stays the same, the small changes that can catch you out, and what the new Tactical Effectiveness system asks of you.
Read guide