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    3. Vertical Tiki-Taka 4-2-3-1 DM Wide (Positive) Tactic

    Vertical Tiki-Taka 4-2-3-1 DM Wide (Positive) Tactic

    Uploaded Tactic

    4-2-3-1 DM Wide tactic screenshot

    Formation & Style

    Tactical Style:Custom Vertical Tiki-Taka
    Mentality:Positive
    Formation:4-2-3-1 DM Wide
    Team Fluidity:Flexible

    In Possession

    Shorter Passing
    Play Out Of Defence
    Be More Expressive
    Slightly Higher Tempo
    Fairly Narrow

    In Transition

    Take Short Kicks
    Distribute to Centre-Backs
    Distribute to Full-Backs
    Counter
    Counter-Press

    Out of Possession

    Higher Defensive Line
    High Press
    More Often
    Prevent Short GK Distribution
    Drop Off More

    Team Shape Without Ball

    Shape:4-2-3-1
    Description:A compact defensive structure with two holding midfielders providing support.
    Evidence:Use of DM roles at [3,3] and [3,4] supports the defensive structure.

    Team Shape With Ball

    Shape:4-2-3-1
    Description:Fluid movement among attacking players supported by overlapping runs from full-backs.
    Evidence:Inside Forward at [6,2] and Attacking Midfielder at [5,3] create creative overloads.

    Phase Description

    Attacking Play

    Focus on maintaining possession and creating space through short passes.

    Defensive Transition

    Quickly transition to defensive shape and press high.

    Main Focus

    Utilizing width and fluid movement in the attacking third.

    Key Strengths

    Dynamic Midfield Setup

    The combination of a Deep-Lying Playmaker and Volante offers both defensive solidity and creative capabilities.

    Wide Attacking Play

    Utilizing an Inside Forward enhances width, allowing for greater penetration down the flanks.

    High Pressing Approach

    The high press is effectively implemented with the pressing forward leading the line, disrupting opposition build-up.

    Conflicting Directions

    Over reliance on Width

    While width is beneficial, it may create gaps in central areas if not managed properly.

    High Defensive Line Risks

    A higher defensive line may expose the team to counter-attacks from pacey forwards.

    Counter-Press Longevity

    Counter-pressing can lead to fatigue, especially if sustained for long periods against higher opposition.

    Tactical Suggestions

    Consider a More Balanced Midfield

    Introducing a more defensive-minded midfielder can provide additional stability, especially against teams that counter quickly.

    Adjust Marking in Defense

    Consider adjusting the marking style in defensive transitions to deal with counter-attacks more efficiently.

    Flexibility in Attack

    Consider altering player duties in the attacking line based on opposition, potentially switching the Inside Forward to a Winger to stretch defenses.

    Ask Questions About Your Lineup

    05:29 AM

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    Guides for this formation

    The tactical theory behind the 4-2-3-1 DM Wide: roles, instructions, and the trade-offs that decide whether the system holds up.

    Player pairings

    Midfield Pairs in 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2

    Double pivots and flat pairs in 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2: when each pairing works, when it collapses, and the AMC unicorn that rescues both.

    Read guide
    Playing styles

    Gegenpressing: A Full Guide

    Klopp-style gegenpressing in FM, including squad profile, line-and-press pairing, sustainable workload, and the antipatterns to avoid.

    Read guide