4-3-2-1 formation

Christmas-tree shape: two playmakers tucked in behind a lone striker.

How it plays

A back four, three central midfielders, two attacking midfielders and one striker, drawn like a Christmas tree. The two playmakers play between the lines and combine with the striker. The shape is narrow, so the full-backs provide the width.

Strengths

Strong in the centre: five players around the middle of the pitch.
Two playmakers support the striker with short passes and quick combinations.
Compact when defending, with small gaps between the lines.

Weaknesses

Very little natural width: the full-backs must do the wide work.
Vulnerable to opponents who attack the flanks.
It needs two technical players behind the striker.

Best for

Technical squads with two creative players and full-backs who can run up and down the flank.

Coach’s tip

Watch the flanks at half time. If the other team keeps attacking wide, ask a midfielder to step out to the side.

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