Positive 4-2-3-1 DM AM Wide (Positive) Tactic
4-2-3-1 DM AM Wide
Utilizing wing-backs to stretch the play and focusing on quick movement to exploit spaces. Wing-backs are effectively pushing forward to support attacks,…
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Formation and style
Positive
Positive
4-2-3-1 DM AM Wide
Flexible
In possession
Pass Into Space
Play Out Of Defence
Work Ball Into Box
Higher Tempo
In transition
Roll It Out
Distribute To Full-Backs
Distribute Quickly
Counter
Out of possession
Much Higher Defensive Line
Higher Line Of Engagement
Prevent Short GK Distribution
Step Up More
Player roles
GK
G
De
DL
WB
Su
DC
CD
De
DC
CD
De
DR
WB
Su
DM
BWM
Su
CM
CM
Su
AM
AP
Su
W
IW
At
ST
TF
At
Phase description
Exploits width through wing-backs while maintaining central support from attacking midfielders. Focus on creating space with quick passes.
Counter-press to regain possession quickly with a higher engagement line.
Utilizing wing-backs to stretch the play and focusing on quick movement to exploit spaces.
Team shape defence
4-2-3-1
Compact defensive shape with wing-backs being crucial for closing down wide areas.
Much Higher Defensive Line and Higher Line Of Engagement intensifies pressure.
Team shape attack
4-2-3-1
Focus on utilizing width while the central players look to exploit defensive gaps.
Roles such as AP and IW create diverse attacking options.
Key strengths
Width Utilization
Wing-backs are effectively pushing forward to support attacks, creating width.
WB-Su at [2,1] and [2,5] complement the inside forwards.
Midfield Control
A strong combination of a BWM and CM allows for stability in transitions.
BWM-Su at [3,3] supports defensive efforts while enabling quick transitions.
Conflicting tactics
High Defensive Line
While effective for pressing, might leave room for counter-attacks.
Much Higher Defensive Line could expose space behind the back four.
Higher Engagement
Aggressive pressing could tire players, especially in central areas.
Higher Line of Engagement without adequate cover may lead to gaps.
Risk exposures
Risk Exposures
Items
Defensive Spaces
High pressing may expose gaps between the defense and midfield.
Much Higher Defensive Line increases risk.
Counter-Attacks
Quick transitions from opponents can exploit the forward pressure.
Involvement of BWM-Su at [3,3] needs backing.
Role synergies
Role Synergies
Items
BWM-Su with CM-Su
Complementary roles enhance midfield control and transition dynamics.
BWM-Su at [3,3] offers support to CM at [4,3].
WB-Su with IW-A
Wide play and inside forward positions work together to stretch defensive blocks.
IW-A at [6,2] benefits from WB-Su at [2,1].
Suggested questions
How can we minimize risks associated with high defensive lines?
What alternatives could we implement for midfield roles?
Are the current players suited for the high-tempo style?
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Guides for this tactic
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Player pairings
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Playing styles
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Foundations
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How Mentality, Duty, and Role interact in FM, why duty trumps mentality every time, and the role-on-top-of-duty composition rules.
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