Gegenpress 4-2-3-1 Wide (Positive) Tactic

Formation and style

Custom Gegenpress

Positive

4-2-3-1 Wide

Flexible

In possession

Play Out of Defence

Pass Into Space

Work Ball Into Box

In transition

Counter-Press

Counter

Out of possession

Higher Defensive Line

Higher Line of Engagement

Prevent Short GK Distribution

Player roles

GK

Goalkeeper

Defend

RB

Wing-Back

Attack

CB

Ball-Playing Defender

Defend

CB

Ball-Playing Defender

Defend

LB

Wing-Back

Attack

CM

Box-to-Box Midfielder

Support

CM

Deep-Lying Playmaker

Support

RM

Winger

Attack

CAM

Attacking Midfielder

Support

LM

Winger

Attack

ST

Pressing Forward

Attack

Phase description

Utilizes width through wingers to stretch the opposition, with the box-to-box midfielder joining attacks.

Focuses on regaining possession quickly through pressing and counter-pressing.

Engaging in high-intensity pressing to win back possession and exploit spaces left by opponents.

Team shape defence

4-2-3-1

Compact shape to limit space for opposition while allowing wing-backs to push higher when in possession.

4 defenders with wing-backs at [2,4] and [2,5] supporting attacks.

Team shape attack

4-2-3-1

Width provided by wingers allows central players to exploit pockets of space.

Wingers at [6,1] and [6,5] stretching the play for attacking moves.

Key strengths

High Pressing

The tactic emphasizes winning the ball back quickly with a high press.

Using 'Counter-Press' and the role of 'Pressing Forward' at [6,3].

Wide Play

Utilizes wingers effectively to create space for the midfield and central striker.

Wingers positioned at [5,1] and [5,5] with the tactical instruction 'Play Out of Defence'.

Conflicting tactics

Limited Depth

The formation may struggle if pressed high due to a lack of immediate passing options.

Wingers positioned wide may lead to congested centre without sufficient support.

Vulnerability to Counter

High pressing leaves the back line exposed during quick counter attacks.

Higher Defensive Line with attacking duties on full-backs may invite pressure.

Risk exposures

Risk Exposures

Items

Defensive Risks

Vulnerable to quick and intelligent counter-attacks, especially through the middle.

The pressing nature can leave gaps behind the midfielders.

Width Management

Struggles with opponents who exploit flanks effectively can lead to exposed full-backs.

WB-A roles at [2,4] and [2,5] can be caught out of position.

Role synergies

Role Synergies

Items

Wing-Backs and Wingers

The overlapping runs of wing-backs and the width provided by wingers create space.

Wing-Back (A) at [2,4] with Winger (A) at [5,1].

Midfield Balance

Strength in midfield with a mix of playmaking and physicality to dominate central areas.

DLP-S at [4,3] supports the BBM-S at [4,2].

Suggested questions

How do we plan to mitigate vulnerability on the counter?

Should we adjust our formation based on opponent strengths?

What adjustments can be made to improve build-up play under pressure?