5-4-1 formation

The ultimate defence: five at the back, four in midfield and one striker.

How it plays

Five defenders, four midfielders and one striker. The team defends in two compact banks, with nine players behind the ball. It gives away space in front, but not behind: the aim is to stay solid and score on a quick break.

Strengths

The most solid shape: nine players behind the ball.
Very compact: there is almost no space between the lines.
Good for protecting a lead in the last minutes of a match.

Weaknesses

Very little attacking threat: one striker alone up front.
The team gives the ball away and can be under pressure for a long time.
The striker needs a lot of energy to run for every long ball.

Best for

Protecting a result, or a big underdog that wants to survive and hit on the counter.

Coach’s tip

Even in a deep block, keep one wide midfielder free to run forward. A single outlet gives the team a way to leave its own half.

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