4-1-4-1 formation

One anchor shields the defence; a flat line of four supports a lone striker.

How it plays

A back four, one holding midfielder, a flat line of four midfielders and a single striker. The anchor sits just in front of the defence and picks up second balls. The four ahead of him can press in a line or drop to form two compact banks.

Strengths

Very compact: three solid lines in front of your goal.
The anchor protects the centre-backs and breaks up attacks.
Four midfielders give width and numbers across the pitch.

Weaknesses

The lone striker has little help and can get lost.
It can turn passive if the midfield line does not push forward.
A lot rests on the anchor, who has to cover big spaces.

Best for

Teams that want to stay compact, protect a lead or play away and hit on the counter-attack.

Coach’s tip

Give the anchor a clear job: stay in front of the centre-backs and let the others press. Do not ask him to do both.

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