Gegenpress 4-1-1-3-1 Wide (Positive) Tactic
4-1-1-3-1 Wide
Quick attacking plays through central and wide channels. Utilizing wing-backs effectively to create width and support attacks.
Loading tactical analysis...
Formation and style
Gegenpress
Positive
4-1-1-3-1 Wide
Flexible
In possession
Pass Into Space
Play Out of Defence
Higher Tempo
In transition
Take Short Kicks
Distribute to Centre-Backs
Counter
Counter-Press
Out of possession
Higher Defensive Line
High Press
Much More Often
Prevent Short GK Distribution
Step Up More
Player roles
GK
Sweeper Keeper
Attack
CB
Ball-Playing Defender
Defend
CB
Ball-Playing Defender
Defend
CB
Ball-Playing Defender
Defend
LWB
Wing-Back
Attack
RWB
Wing-Back
Attack
DM
Deep-Lying Playmaker
Support
CM
Ball-Winning Midfielder
Defend
AM
Attacking Midfielder
Support
IF
Inside Forward
Attack
PF
Pressing Forward
Attack
Phase description
Focus on quick transitions and exploiting spaces via width with wing-backs pushing high.
Immediate pressure on the ball to regain possession and disrupt the opponent's flow.
Quick attacking plays through central and wide channels.
Team shape defence
Flat back three
Three central defenders with wing-backs supporting the lines effectively.
BPD-De positions at [2,2], [2,3], [2,4] providing cover.
Team shape attack
Fluid width
Dynamic approach with wing-backs and inside forwards stretching the play.
WB-A at [2,1] and [2,5] combined with IF-A in wide areas.
Key strengths
Dynamic Wing Play
Utilizing wing-backs effectively to create width and support attacks.
WB-A at [2,1], CWB-A at [2,5] paired with IF-A options on either flank.
Midfield Control
A strong midfield presence with a mix of defensive and playmaking capabilities.
DLP-S at [3,3] supported by BWM-D at [3,4].
Conflicting tactics
Exposed Flanks
High wing-backs may leave space open on the sides for counter-attacks.
WB-A at [2,1] and CWB-A at [2,5] can be caught out of position.
Space Between Lines
The structure might allow opponents to exploit the gaps between the attacking and midfield lines.
AM-S at [5,3] provides attacking options but may be a weak link defensively.
Risk exposures
Risk Exposures
Items
Counter-Attacks
High commitments forward could expose the team to quick counter threats.
WB-A and IF-A positions may fail to track back quickly.
Defensive Stability
With an attacking mentality, defensive players might get caught high.
Higher Defensive Line set with pressing may be risky.
Role synergies
Role Synergies
Items
DLP-S and BWM-D
Intelligent distribution and protection of the back line create effective transitions.
DLP-S at [3,3] combined with BWM-D at [3,4].
IF-A and PF-A
The combination offers varied attacking threats, stretching defenses.
IF-A at [6,2] and PF-A at [6,3] engage opposing defenders.
Suggested questions
How can I improve defensive solidity without sacrificing attacking intent?
Should I adjust my pressing strategy based on opponents?
What further adjustments could increase midfield control in tough matches?
More Gegenpress tactics
Guides for this tactic
The tactical theory behind the 4-1-1-3-1 Wide: roles, instructions, and the trade-offs that decide whether the system holds up.
Foundations
Defensive Transitions
The five seconds after losing the ball decide most matches. Counter-press, drop-and-recover, and how to know which one you should be doing.
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