3-4-3 formation

Bold: three at the back, four across midfield and three forwards pressing high.

How it plays

Three defenders, four midfielders and three forwards. The two wide midfielders push up to join the attack, so the front line has five players when the team goes forward. The three forwards press the opposing defence high up the pitch.

Strengths

Many players in attack: three forwards plus two wide midfielders.
A strong high press that wins the ball near the opposing goal.
Easy to overload the flanks with a wide midfielder and a forward.

Weaknesses

Only two central midfielders, who can be outnumbered.
Risky on transitions: three defenders cover a lot of space.
The wide areas behind the midfielders are open if the press fails.

Best for

Teams that dominate possession and play against opponents who sit deep.

Coach’s tip

Agree on one rule: when the ball is lost, the nearest player presses at once. A slow press leaves three defenders exposed.

Build your 3-4-3 lineup

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