4-3-3 formation
Attacking: three forwards stretch the defence while a midfield trio controls the centre.
How it plays
A back four, three midfielders and three forwards: a striker between two wingers. The midfield forms a triangle, usually with one player holding the base and two moving forward. The wingers stay wide to stretch the defence and cut inside to shoot.
Player roles and a sample lineup
In a 4-3-3, use a holding midfielder behind two central midfielders. Start with one goalkeeper, two centre-backs, two full-backs, three midfielders, two wingers and a striker. Ask one full-back to stay deeper when the other overlaps.
Choosing between 4-3-3 and 4-4-2
The 4-3-3 gives you three central midfielders and natural width from the wingers. The 4-4-2 gives you two strikers, but its two central midfielders can be outnumbered. Choose according to your players and their defensive work, rather than treating either shape as always better.
Explore the alternative: 4-4-2.
For a shape with a number 10 and two holding midfielders, see the 4-2-3-1 guide.
Strengths
- Width and a high press: three forwards can pressure the whole back line.
- A midfield triangle makes passing options in every direction.
- Easy to overload one flank with the winger, the full-back and a midfielder.
Weaknesses
- Space behind the full-backs when the wingers stay high.
- The lone holding midfielder is exposed if the team loses the ball.
- It needs fit midfielders who can run both ways.
Best for
Teams with quick wingers, a strong midfield trio and the courage to keep the ball and press high.
Coach’s tip
Teach the winger on the weak side to tuck in when the ball is on the other flank. It closes the space behind your full-back.
Build your 4-3-3 lineup
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