Soccer BLOG

Champions League Final 2026

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

We’ve arrived at another UEFA Champions League final! This championship is one of the most important events in the world of football, or soccer if you prefer. The world cup will overshadow this year’s Champions League, like it does every four years, but it will still be a great final that will mesmerize fans and newcomers alike.

This final has an attack heavy PSG facing a game managing Arsenal.

PSG

PSG has an attack that rivals the best in Europe. Their attack comprises a full frontal attack with fullbacks that act like secondary wingers, a high block press that lives on the opponents own half of the field as much as possible and individual talent constantly showing up in big moments. Their chemistry has been amazing with a Kvaratskhelia that’s been a constant danger on the left wing, a Dembélé, when healthy, that’s shown amazing attack positioning for crucial goals, a Vitinha controlling the play making from deep in the midfield, etc. You could go on and on signaling the individual strengths this team has because it is one of the best in the world.

Arsenal

Arsenal tends to follow a different strategy. They like to manage the flow and time of the game. There’s times you see them attacking heavily in the early minutes of the game until they score. When they do score they tend to sit back with a low block press to allow their players to recover their stamina and defend their temporary victory. They also slow down the pace of the game in different ways. They have world class players as well with a manager in Arteta that is doing a tremendous job taking an often underachieving Arsenal to the Champions League final. One criticism they receive is that on set pieces they tend to use their physicality and unsportsmanlike strategies to score. Oftentimes they’re called out for screening and blocking the opposing goalie and defenders from reaching the ball. Overall Arsenal have their own style of play that got them to another final after two decades.

How it might play out

In my opinion I see it being very intense in the first twenty minutes. If there’s a mistake by either team there’s going to be a goal. If it stays goalless I think Arsenal are going to sit back a little and slow down the game. PSG have a slight advantage down their left flank because of Arsenal’s right back injured players. PSG will have to be mindful when they do full frontal attacks however, Arsenal has fast attackers that can capitalize the counter. One thing I have noticed is that Gyökeres misses big chances sometimes so a counter in this scenario loses a tiny bit of its danger. When Arsenal does get possession of the ball they’ll slowly try to push the ball up. This is where Saka and Ødegaard have been very good at being the difference makers elevating an ordinary play into a dangerous one. Overall I don’t think PSG will blowout the score like last year’s final against Inter de Milan, I think the match will be won by a narrow margin.

Predicting result

I think PSG will be crowned champions once again with a 3-1 victory. Whichever team successfully dominates the game with their style the longest will have the better chances of scoring. This previous sentence is an obvious statement but I think these two teams have each mastered their style so well that it really will come down to which team’s style dominates the match. I hope it will be an entertaining match for us all in one of football/ soccer’s most prestigious matches.

Different Ways to Shoot in Soccer

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

There are many ways to shoot the ball when trying to score in soccer. Of course these techniques require countless hours of practice but man are they beautiful when perfected. Here’s a couple of popular ways players strike the ball.

Finesse shot

For the finesse shot, players approach the ball at a slight angle turning their foot sideways and striking the ball with the upper part of the inside of the foot. 

It’s a great way to shoot at the corners of the goal because the motion of the shot creates a curl effect while having control of the ball’s path. A tip with this shot is aiming a little bit off of your target (on the opposite side of where it will curl in) because the curl will bend it in more than you want.

This shot does lack the power of the power shot but it’s a great option when you have time to shoot, when the goalie is out of position or when you’re close to the goal. 

Instep drive shot/ power shot

The standard, most popular shot in soccer is the instep drive shot, sometimes referred to as the power shot. It’s the shot most players learn when starting to play soccer. To execute the instep drive shot, players run up to the ball, tilt their bodies slightly, stretch out their arm that’s opposite the foot they’re shooting with (for balance) and strike the ball with the instep of the foot (where the laces are on the shoe). Players tend to point their toes down locking their ankle of the shooting foot resulting in a shovel-like strike. This results in a straight forward, fast shot with power if struck hard. 

The instep drive shot does have less accuracy than the finesse shot but takes less time to shoot and has more power.

Outside foot shot/ Trivela

The outside foot shot or trivela, which has been getting more attention lately by super stars like Lamine Yamal using it, is a great shooting alternative. It can be used both as a passing option and a shooting option. Since we are here for shooting we’ll stick with the shooting side of the trivela. 

To execute a trivela shot players run up to the ball, tilt their bodies at an angle, bend their foot inwards to expose the outside of the foot and strike the ball diagonally starting near the bottom left or right side of the ball moving outwards. 

This shooting type is a great option when the player’s body position doesn’t give them time to adjust for a power shot or finesse shot. This is also a great shot because goalies usually don’t anticipate a trivela shot so their reaction time is slightly slower.

Overall there’s a lot of different ways to shoot in soccer. There’s plenty more I didn’t cover but these are the most used in my opinion. The superstars of today show us with great technique that different soccer shots, when perfectly executed, can be a beautiful thing to see.

Football/ Soccer Formations- 9v9

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

For the last installment of formation guides we take a look at 9v9 formations. These will most likely be used in youth soccer so we’ll try to keep things chill to not overwhelm the youngsters learning about this beautiful sport. Again, I’m not an expert but I’d like to share my ideas and strategies with you all. Thank you for checking them out!

Shortcut words:

CB: 

center back

Fullbacks:

left back/ right back

CDM: 

center defensive midfielder

CM: 

center midfielder

CAM: 

center attacking midfielder

LM/RM: 

left midfielder/ right midfielder

LW/RW: 

left winger/ right winger

ST: 

striker

CF:

center forward (This is a position below the ST position. CFs typically participate with playmaking and moving the ball around as well as looking for scoring options.)

The term winger can be applied to both left/ right midfielders (who are midfielders) and left/ right wingers (who are attackers/ forwards). It can get confusing but it really is just to refer to the outside midfielders or attackers.

Formations include the following:

3-4-1 (flat)

3-4-1 (diamond)

4-3-1 (wide)

4-3-1 (attack)

5-2-1

3-3-2 (holding)

3-3-2 (wide)

4-2-2

5-1-2 (with CF)

3-2-3

3-2-3 (two CFs)

4-1-3 (with CF)

3-4-1 (flat)

ST

LM         CM         CM         RM

LB              CB              RB

GK

Pros

-solid midfield that can pass the ball horizontally as they try to find and support the striker 

-fullbacks have defending and passing support from wingers

Cons

-a CM will have to remember to drop down and help the CB when necessary

-midfielders will need to move up often to connect with the ST

Play Creation 

-Easy wing play creation could include the ball going from GK to fullback to winger who can dribble up the field or pass it to a teammate that gets close to provide support. CMs receiving the ball can also put “through passes” to the striker if they are fast. The CMs and their respective wingers can also create “pass and go” situations.

Player Types Combinations 

-some ideas that can work:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and dribbling)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and dribbling)

          –one playmaking winger (focus: a player that’s good at ball control, dribbling and passing)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: a player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –attacking CM (focus: a player that goes up to attack with good passing and shooting)

          –supportive fullbacks (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

     –Combination 2:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong player with good shooting)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: a fast player with good ball control and passing)

          –one playmaking winger (focus: a player that’s good at ball control, dribbling and passing)

          –box to box CM (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: a player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –one supportive fullback (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –one playmaking fullback (focus: a player that is good at ball control, passing and decent at defending)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

3-4-1 (diamond)

ST

CAM

LM                                  RM

CDM

LB                CB               RB

GK

Pros

-CAM is able to move around creating passing plays for wingers and striker

-CDM can help start plays and come down to help CB when necessary 

Cons

-If opposition has a lot of midfielders, passing to CAM can be difficult 

-CDM has more players to mark without another midfielder nearby to help

Play Creation 

-The ball can be distributed from your fullbacks to your wingers. If they feel confident they can dribble up the field or pass it to either the CDM, CAM or ST. If any player gets stuck they can boot it upfield for a direct pass to the striker. In moments when the CAM has the ball the CDM can move up to try to support or the wingers can run forward to show options for “through passes”.

Player Types Combinations 

-some ideas to consider: 

     –Combination 1:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: a strong player that’s good at passing)

          –traditional CAM (focus: a player that has good ball control, passing and dribbling)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and dribbling)

          –one attacking winger (focus: a player that can make runs towards goal and shoot well from close and far)

          –guardian CDM (focus: good passing and defending)

          –supportive fullbacks (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast player with good ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking shooting CAM (focus: a player with good ball control, dribbling, passing and long shooting)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: a fast player with good ball control and passing)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: a player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –one supportive fullback (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –one dribbling fullback (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

4-3-1 (wide)

ST

LM              CM             RM

LB          CB          CB         RB

GK

Pros

-strong defensive protection with a CB that can distribute the ball to the midfielders

-strong wing play with support from your CM and ST

Cons

-CM that can feel overwhelmed by being alone in the middle if teammates don’t come in for support

-ST that can be isolated if they don’t receive passes or if they’re well covered by defenders

Play Creation 

-One of the CBs can push up a little to provide passing support to their teammates, especially the CM. When necessary they can blast the ball forward to the ST or down the wings so the wingers can try to beat the opposing fullbacks in a run. A CM receiving the ball can connect with wingers or fullbacks quickly to start the plays. Down the flanks, wingers can run with the ball looking for support from the CM or ST. If no clear pass is available they can connect with the fullbacks with a “pass and go”.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool ideas:

     –Combination 1:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong player with good shooting)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: a fast player with good ball control and passing)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CM (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –supportive fullbacks (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –One of the CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the other CB can push up a little with decent passing to help distribute the ball.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and passing)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and dribbling)

          –one attacking winger (focus: a player that can make runs towards goal and shoot well from close and far)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –one playmaking fullback (focus: a player that is good at ball control, passing and decent at defending)

          –one dribbling fullback (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –One of the CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the other CB can push up a little with decent passing to help distribute the ball.

4-3-1 (attack)

ST

CAM

CM            CM

LB            CB         CB           RB

GK

Pros

-Great connections down the middle

-fullbacks can push up while a CM drops a bit to cover for them creating wide attacks as well

Cons

-without wingers, fullbacks will find it a little more challenging attacking down the wings

-the CAM will have to remember to push up constantly to support the striker

Play Creation 

-Play creation will primarily be run through the CMs. They can rely on rising fullbacks to go wide or down the middle with the CAM. If the fullbacks are successful pushing up the ball, the CMs and CAM can move laterally to provide them support. The CAM can move down when CMs need quick pass help, they can move up to help the ST, act as a second striker themselves or they can move laterally to support the fullbacks.

Player Types Combinations 

-some ideas to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong player with good shooting)

          –playmaking shooting CAM (focus: a player with good ball control, dribbling, passing and long shooting)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –box to box CM (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –dribbling fullbacks (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –One of the CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the other CB can push up a little with decent passing to help distribute the ball.

     –Combination 2:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: a strong player that’s good at passing)

          –shadow striker CAM (focus: a fast player with pretty good dribbling and shooting constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –guardian CM (focus: good passing and defending)

          –box to box CM (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –one playmaking fullback (focus: a player that is good at ball control, passing and decent at defending)

          –one supportive fullback (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –One of the CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the other CB can push up a little with decent passing to help distribute the ball.

5-2-1

ST

CM           CM

LB        CB         CB        CB        RB

GK

Pros

-solid defense with free fullbacks to push up more than in other formations 

-middle CB can have freedom to push up a little and help with passing creation and support

Cons

-less players attacking make it a little more difficult for generating plays in the last third of the field

-fullbacks and middle CB have more responsibilities in pushing up but also have to remember to come back to help defend

Play Creation 

-Play creation can flow through different ways. If your middle CB pushes up a bit they can be a deep lying playmaker orchestrating passes to any player open. The CMs can move around trying to find open spaces to receive and distribute the ball as long as one stays a little behind to protect the middle. The fullbacks can constantly make runs forward and when they successfully push the ball up they can try to find a CM moving up or the ST.

Player Types Combinations 

-some ways to make it work:

     –Combination 1:

          –showman ST (focus: a player that’s good at shooting and dribbling)

          –box to box CM (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: a player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –The left and right CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the middle CB can push up with good ball control and passing qualities.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast player with good ball control and dribbling)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –attacking CM (focus: a player that goes up to attack with good passing and shooting)

          –one dribbling fullback (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –one supportive fullback (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –The left and right CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the middle CB can push up with good ball control and passing qualities.

3-3-2 (holding)

ST           ST

CM              CM

CDM

LB               CB              RB

GK

Pros

-nice and stable formation that allows for different attacking and passing avenues

-a lot of teammate support since the positions are staggered and positioned in a way that the players are close to each other for quick support

Cons

-wide play workload will be heavier for fullbacks without wingers

-sole CB will have more responsibilities alongside CDM coming down more often to help them out

Play Creation

-Most of the play creation will pass through the CMs. They’ll be able to connect with CDM for quick triangular passing. The midfielders can also involve the rising fullbacks so that they can dribble up the field or do a direct pass to the strikers. If you have a playmaking striker they can be involved in “Pass and Go” passing or possession passing with the CMs.

Player Types Combinations

-some ideas to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: a player that’s pretty good at passing and shooting)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast player with good ball control and dribbling)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –attacking CM (focus: a player that goes up to attack with good passing and shooting)

          –guardian CDM (focus: good passing and defending)

          –one supportive fullback (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –one dribbling fullback (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

     –Combination 2:

          –one showman ST (focus: a player that’s good at shooting and dribbling)

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: a strong player that’s good at passing)

          –box to box CM (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: a player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –fast playmaking controlling CDM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –one supportive fullback (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –one box to box fullback (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

3-3-2 (wide)

ST          ST   

LM             CM             RM

LB              CB              RB

GK

Pros

-a lot of wide play possibilities

-stretching the field forces opposition to spread out players leaving gaps you can take advantage of

Cons

-a sole CM will have to be good at defending and careful not to go up too high

-a sole CB will also require the CM to drop down and help often

Play Creation

-Play creation in this formation will mainly consist of wing play and direct passes to the strikers. Your CM can facilitate “Pass and Go” passing to the fullbacks and wingers. When wingers are near the strikers they can create “Pass and Go” passes or look for a striker that’s in place to shoot. Strikers can mobilize around their area to playmake or take on defenders with good dribbling. The fullbacks themselves can set up strikers with direct passes if the strikers are in good position or if the opposing defenders are slower.

Player Types Combinations

-some ideas for this formation:

     –Combination 1:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast player with good ball control and dribbling)

          –one showman ST (focus: a player that’s good at shooting and dribbling)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and dribbling)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: a fast player with good ball control and passing)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –one supportive fullback (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –one playmaking fullback (focus: a player that is good at ball control, passing and decent at defending)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

     –Combination 2:

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and passing)

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: a player that’s pretty good at passing and shooting)

          –one attacking winger (focus: a player that can make runs towards goal and shoot well from close and far)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and dribbling)

          –guardian CM (focus: good passing and defending)

          –one dribbling fullback (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –one playmaking fullback (focus: a player that is good at ball control, passing and decent at defending)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

4-2-2

ST          ST

CM           CM

LB            CB          CB           RB

GK

Pros

-solid defense that allows the fullbacks a little more freedom to move up the field to connect with the CMs and STs

-the second CM and ST allow for less pressure and support from their partner

Cons

-wing play has less power unless CMs and STs move wide

-less passing triangulation in upper half

Play Creation

-The CMs will take the reins for the most part with options to play a striker that comes down or that makes a run behind the defenders. They can also get support from fullbacks and encourage them to push the ball up with “through passes”. If all options are closed they can pass it amongst themselves looking for open spaces to move into. If the game is closed in, one of the CBs can push up and act as a hybrid CDM  with good passing to send direct passes to strikers or to support the CMs and fullbacks.

Player Types Combinations

-some cool ideas:

     –Combination 1:

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: a strong player that’s good at passing)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast player with good ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CMs (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –supportive fullbacks (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –One of the CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the other CB can push up a little with decent passing to help distribute the ball.

     –Combination 2:

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: a player that’s pretty good at passing and shooting)

          –one showman ST (focus: a player that’s good at shooting and dribbling)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: a player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –dribbling fullbacks (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –One of the CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the other CB can push up a little with decent passing to help distribute the ball.

5-1-2 (with CF)

ST

CF

CM

LB         CB       CB      CB         RB

GK

Pros

-fullbacks have full freedom to go up and down the flanks with a middle CB that can act as a hybrid CDM by pushing up at times

-CM that can pass back and forth with CF down the middle or go wide with rising fullbacks to create fluidity in the game

Cons

-very open midfield where opponent can take advantage of open spaces and attack easily unless your sole midfielder is fast or good at defending

-CM can be overwhelmed with a lot of tasks and will constantly need help from surrounding teammates 

Play Creation

-With the back and forth movements of the fullbacks, the CM and CF can easily move sideways to support the fullbacks’ runs with zig zag passing. Once the CF gets the ball, they can decide to move forward with the ball to find the striker, dribble past defenders or pass it back to an open teammate. The CM and CF will be the ones directing the majority of the ball’s fluidity. If a striker has good passing they can put “through passes” to a CF making runs into the box.

Player Types Combinations

-some ideas to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –showman ST (focus: a player that’s good at shooting and dribbling)

          –playmaking CF (focus: a player with good passing and ball control)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –dribbling fullbacks (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –The left and right CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the middle CB can push up with good ball control and passing qualities.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and passing)

          –shadow striker CF (focus: a fast player with good ball control and shooting that makes constant runs in the box)

          –guardian CM (focus: good passing and defending)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –The left and right CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the middle CB can push up with good ball control and passing qualities.

3-2-3

LW               ST               RW

CM          CM

LB             CB             RB

GK

Pros

-CMs can facilitate connection between wingers and fullbacks, creating great plays down the flanks

-ST has a lot of players that can distribute the ball to them

Cons

-singular CB will require a CM to drop down often to help defend

-fullbacks will have to move up high to connect with wingers and rush down to help defend causing a lot of fatigue

Play Creation

-Wing play will be fun with the fullbacks and wingers connecting while the CMs provide support either by zig zag passing or triangular passing. The striker will be looking for open spaces upfront ready to receive a through pass or direct pass from their teammates. If the striker is a playmaker they can move around ready to receive the ball and distribute it to a player making a run or in an open space.

Player Types Combinations

-some ideas for this formation:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy shooting ST (focus: a fast player with good shooting)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: a fast player that has good ball control and dribbling)

          –one playmaking winger (focus: a player that’s good at ball control, dribbling and passing)

          –fast playmaking controlling CMs (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –dribbling fullbacks (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

     –Combination 2:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: a strong player that’s good at passing)

          –attacking wingers (focus: a player that can make runs towards goal and shoot well from close and far)

          –guardian CM (focus: good passing and defending)

          –box to box CM (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –playmaking fullbacks (focus: a player that is good at ball control, passing and decent at defending)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

3-2-3 (two CFs)

ST

CF             CF

CM           CM

LB             CB             RB

GK

Pros

-a lot of attacking support with versatile CFs

-CM pairing can connect with CFs and fullbacks easily

Cons

-one CM has to constantly drop to help the CB

-fullbacks have less support down the flanks unless teammates run towards them to make passing connections

Play Creation

-Play creation is clearest involving the CMs and CFs. When one of the CMs gets the ball they can search for an open CF for a “pass back” or so the CF can make a play forward with his attacking partners. If the CM can’t find an open CF they can rely on their midfield partner for short passing amongst themselves. If there’s a lot of pressure in the midfield they can distribute the ball to one of the fullbacks who in turn can drive the ball down the flank or set a long direct pass to the attackers.

Player Types Combinations

-some ideas to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast player with good ball control and dribbling)

          –one playmaking CF (focus: a player with good passing and ball control)

          –one playmaking shooting CF (focus: a player with good passing and shooting)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –guardian CM (focus: good passing and defending)

          –one dribbling fullback (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –one supportive fullback (focus: players that are good at defending with decent passing and speed)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

     –Combination 2:

          –playmaking shooting ST (focus: a player that’s pretty good at passing and shooting)

          –one shadow striker CF (focus: a fast player with good ball control and shooting that makes constant runs in the box)

          –one playmaking CF (focus: a player with good passing and ball control)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –box to box CM (focus: a player that is pretty good at everything and can support on offense and defense)

          –one playmaking fullback (focus: a player that is good at ball control, passing and decent at defending)

          –one dribbling fullback (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –The CB can be as fast and strong as possible with decent defending.

4-1-3 (with CF)

LW                             RW

CF

CM

LB           CB         CB          RB

GK

Pros

-good defensive support with a staggered CF to help CM with play creation

-fullbacks have a little more freedom to go up and support while wingers can rely on different passing avenues

Cons

-The CM may be overwhelmed if the opposition has a lot of midfielders. One of the CBs can push up often to help support the CM.

-If the CF drops too low you will lose the presence of an attacker in the goalkeeper’s box.

Play Creation

-Play creation can start from the fullbacks pushing the ball up looking for the CM or an open attacker. The CM and CF can move laterally to provide “pass and go” options to the fullbacks and wingers. If wingers are good shooters they can make runs into the box to try to create scoring chances. If possession is necessary the fullbacks can support the CM and CF with triangular passing.

Player Types Combinations

-some cool ideas to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –playmaking CF (focus: a player with good passing and ball control)

          –attacking wingers (focus: a player that can make runs towards goal and shoot well from close and far)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: a fast player that’s pretty good at passing, ball control and decent at defending)

          –dribbling fullbacks (focus: a player that is good at defending with decent dribbling and speed)

          –One of the CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the other CB can push up a little with decent passing to help distribute the ball.

     –Combination 2:

          –showman CF (focus: a player that’s good at shooting and dribbling)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: a fast player with good ball control and passing)

          –guardian CM (focus: good passing and defending)

          –playmaking fullbacks (focus: a player that is good at ball control, passing and decent at defending)

          –One of the CBs can be as fast and strong as possible while the other CB can push up a little with decent passing to help distribute the ball.

Well that’s about it, I think, for 9v9 formations. I want to thank you all for checking out my ideas. I certainly love strategizing football/ soccer ideas, so I hope this post was a fun read. I hope you all have a great day and until next time.

Football/ Soccer Formations- Four Attackers

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

Hello there, I hope you are well! Today we discuss the few, but interesting, four attacker formations. I’ll do my best to give fun strategies on how to use these offensive driven formations. Hopefully you enjoy reading the content below!

Shortcut words:

CB: 

center back

Fullbacks:

left back/ right back

CDM: 

center defensive midfielder

CM: 

center midfielder

CAM: 

center attacking midfielder

LM/RM: 

left midfielder/ right midfielder

LW/RW: 

left winger/ right winger

ST: 

striker

CF:

center forward (This is a position below the ST position. CFs typically participate with playmaking and moving the ball around as well as looking for scoring options.)

The term winger can be applied to both left/ right midfielders (who are midfielders) and left/ right wingers (who are attackers/ forwards). It can get confusing but it really is just to refer to the outside midfielders or attackers.

Formations include the following:

3-3-4

3-3-4 (staggered)

4-2-4

4-2-4 (staggered)

5-1-4

3-3-4

LW           ST          ST           RW

LM                CM                RM

CB           CB           CB

GK

Pros

-The last third of the pitch is yours. This formation overloads the box where literally each defender is marking someone unless they’re playing a line of 5 defenders

-CM has plenty of targets to choose from, with each one of the attackers trying to find an open space

Cons

-Midfield is very open and all midfielders have defensive duties they have to attend to

-if opposition has a good strategy through the middle you’re players are going to have a hard time stopping them

Play Creation 

-One way to play this is by having the CM supporting the LM/ RM so in turn they can find one of the LW/ RW, if not they could return the ball to the CM so the CM can try to find an open striker or switch the ball to the other side. There are a lot of direct balls to the attackers because of the lack of staggered positions. It’s crucial to have one or two playmakers within the attackers.

Player Types Combinations 

-some interesting ideas you might consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –attacking LW and RW (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –defensive playmaking LM and RM (focus: speedy wingers that have good short passing for support and good defensive qualities to help the CBs)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

     –Combination 2:

          –one physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –speedy playmaking LW and RW (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –box to box LM and RM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can have good passing qualities to distribute the ball in case the LM/ RM go up too high.

     –Combination 3:

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –one attacking LW/ RW (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –one dynamic LW/ RW (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –defensive playmaking LM and RM (focus: speedy wingers that have good short passing for support and good defensive qualities to help the CBs)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can have good passing qualities to distribute the ball in case the CM goes up too high.

3-3-4 (staggered)

LW                 ST                RW

CF

LM              CM              RM

CB         CB         CB

GK

Pros

-four attacking players ready to attack, with a staggered CF that can act as a pivot to distribute or attack

-Three midfielders that can distribute to the staggered attackers in different combinations with the added CF.

Cons

-a midfield line that has to be on their toes when they’re needed to help defend

-A sole CM that has a crucial role in distributing the ball and disrupting the opponents attacks.

Play Creation 

-We have the addition of a CF that can act as a playmaker or a second striker. As a playmaker they can support the wingers and the striker with passes or be ready to return a pass to the CM for possession of the ball. If they’re acting as a second striker they can rush in from behind to receive a “through ball” from a teammate for a direct shot. The wingers can also create passes amongst each other while receiving support from the CF and CM, while the striker gets in a good attacking position. 

Player Types Combinations 

-some ideas I have for this formation:

     –Combination 1:

          –playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –playmaking CF (focus: great ball control, dribbling, attack position and short passing precision)

          –attacking LW and RW (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –box to box LM and RM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can have good passing qualities to distribute the ball in case the LM/ RM go up too high.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –playmaking shooting CF (focus: great ball control, dribbling, attack position, short passing, and precise shooting from anywhere on the last third of the field)

          –dynamic LW and RW (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –speedy playmaking LM and RM (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

     –Combination 3:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –speedy dribbling CF (focus: a fast center forward with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one speedy playmaking LW/ RW (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –one attacking LW/ RW (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –defensive playmaking LM and RM (focus: speedy wingers that have good short passing for support and good defensive qualities to help the CBs)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

4-2-4

LW           ST         ST          RW

CM         CM

LB          CB         CB         RB

GK

Pros

-more defensive stability than the 3-3-4s with the same attacking power

-playmaking midfielders have a lot of options for direct attacks

Cons

-an ideal formation for direct attacks, not as much for possession play

-CMs can get overloaded with work

Play Creation 

-This formation can have your CMs doing all the work if you want. They can be the ones sending direct passes to an attacker, they can start creating plays with the fullbacks to push the ball up, or they can pass amongst themselves to push the ball up through the middle. Wing play is nice as well because CMs can set up fullbacks so they can connect with wingers, who in turn can connect with strikers for “pass and go” passing or “through balls”. CMs that find an easy avenue down the middle can rely on a playmaking striker to invite the rest of the team up or for triangulating passes with the CMs for possession.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool ideas for this formation:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling STs (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –If possible, one of the CBs can be fast and strong. One of the CBs can also be good at passing, to help the CMs begin ball distribution.

     –Combination 2:

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –(on the side of strong playmaking ST) one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –(on the side of playmaking shooting ST) one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –If possible, one of the CBs can be fast and strong. One of the CBs can also be good at passing, to help the CMs begin ball distribution.

     –Combination 3:

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –(on the side of speedy dribbling ST) one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –(on the side of strong playmaking ST) one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –If possible, one of the CBs can be fast and strong. One of the CBs can also be good at passing, to help the CMs begin ball distribution.

4-2-4 (staggered)

LW                 ST                RW

CF

CM          CM

LB             CB          CB            RB

GK

Pros

-A staggered CF helps facilitate play creation and provides an option for possession play, rather than just relying on direct attacks.

-a lot of triangular connections available with the added CF and fullbacks

Cons

-fullbacks and CMs need to be careful not to go up too high for possible counter attacks

-CMs without defending qualities will struggle to hold off attacks down the middle from opposition 

Play Creation 

-The CF has a wonderful role of pivoting around their area ready to become active in play creation. The ball can go from the CMs to the CF to the wingers, who in turn can dribble past the defenders or pass it down to the fullbacks. If the striker is open, the ball can go from CMs to the striker who in turn can “pass and go” with the CF, then the CF can put a “through pass” so the striker can shoot. There are a lot of cool ways that this formation can work.

Player Types Combinations 

-some ideas to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –playmaking CF (focus: great ball control, dribbling, attack position and short passing precision)

          –attacking wingers (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –If possible, one of the CBs can be fast and strong. One of the CBs can also be good at passing, to help the CMs begin ball distribution.

     –Combination 2:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –playmaking shooting CF (focus: great ball control, dribbling, attack position, short passing, and precise shooting from anywhere on the last third of the field)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –If possible, one of the CBs can be fast and strong. One of the CBs can also be good at passing, to help the CMs begin ball distribution.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –speedy dribbling CF (focus: a fast center forward with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –If possible, one of the CBs can be fast and strong. One of the CBs can also be good at passing, to help the CMs begin ball distribution.

5-1-4

LW           ST           ST           RW

CM

LB         CB        CB       CB           RB

GK

Pros

-an all out attacking and defensive juggernaut that nullifies most of your midfield play, inviting chaos and fun destruction if you’re into that sort of thing

-back and forth chaotic playstyle with almost no possession, you’re either attacking or defending

Cons

-can be draining for players to be back and forth without a solid midfield to slow down the pace

-extreme results: you might score a lot but you might get scored on a lot as well

Play Creation 

-This formation can begin to flow through your CM and fullbacks. They will connect together most of the time. If a striker or wingers are playmakers, they can provide some support in all the craziness. Most of the time it will be direct balls to your forwards to always be looking for attacking opportunities.

Player Types Combinations 

-some ideas for this extreme formation:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling STs (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be good at passing to help the CM start attacks from the back.

     –Combination 2:

          –one physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be good at passing to help the CM start attacks from the back.

     –Combination 3:

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –attacking wingers (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be good at passing to help the CM start attacks from the back.

Well that’s about it, I think, regarding four attacker formations. These might be used less, but it’s still fun strategizing these full on attacking formations. Thanks for reading and checking out these ideas. Again, this is just a fun post with some of my ideas and not meant to insult anyone else’s ideas of football/ soccer. I hope you have a good day and we continue to enjoy this beautiful sport. Until next time.

Football/ Soccer Formations- Three Attackers

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

Here we are for the third installment of soccer formations, three attacker formations. I’ll do my best to give a fun look at different strategies that can be used with these formations. Again, I’m a casual console player of the fifa games as well as playing for fun in real life and I love coming up with different strategies while playing. I’m not a pro but hopefully you enjoy reading the content below!

Shortcut words:

CB: 

center back

Fullbacks:

left back/ right back

CDM: 

center defensive midfielder

CM: 

center midfielder

CAM: 

center attacking midfielder

LM/RM: 

left midfielder/ right midfielder

LW/RW: 

left winger/ right winger

ST: 

striker

CF:

center forward (This is a position below the ST position. CFs typically participate with playmaking and moving the ball around as well as looking for scoring options.)

The term winger can be applied to both left/ right midfielders (who are midfielders) and left/ right wingers (who are attackers/ forwards). It can get confusing but it really is just to refer to the outside midfielders or attackers.

Formations include the following:

3-4-3

4-2-1-3

4-3-3

4-3-3 (holding)

4-3-3 (defend)

4-3-3 (attack)

4-3-3 (false 9)

5-2-3

3-4-3

LW                ST               RW

LM          CM          CM         RM

CB          CB          CB

GK

Pros

-a lot of width attack possibilities with central support

-a lot of player connections in the opponents half of the field

Cons

-midfielders have to remember to come down and help the the CBs when being attacked

-opponent can pass through the middle if CMs aren’t defensive enough

Play Creation 

-For this formation, play creation can be very fun. Your wing plays are going to be explosive with a lot of passing between the LW and LM with support from your left CM and left ST. Your LW can pass it to your LM, the LM can find the left ST, the left ST to your left CM to finally put a through pass to the LW making a run. The same can be done on the mirrored right side. If you prefer to have the CMs take the reins, they could be the ones primarily handling the ball to make quick passes to the players around that are open. The CMs would have to be careful not to lose the ball because there isn’t a CDM behind them to hold back a quick counter.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool ideas:

     –Combination 1:

          –playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –dynamic LW and RW (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking LM and RM (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, ball control, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one dynamic LW or RW (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one attacking LW or RW (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –box to box LM and RM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

     –Combination 3:

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –one attacking LW or RW (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –one dynamic LW or RW (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one dynamic LM or RM (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one defensive playmaking LM or RM (focus: speedy wingers that have good short passing for support and good defensive qualities to help the CBs)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

4-2-1-3

LW               ST               RW

CAM

CDM              CDM

LB             CB            CB            RB

GK

Pros

-a dynamic attacking formation for forward playing soccer

-a CAM that’s able to connect with three attackers while having security behind with two CDMs

Cons

-with only three midfielders and the CAM being a bit separated from CDMs, the midfield can be be disconnected if opponent has a lot of midfielders putting pressure

-wing play will require fullbacks reaching distant wingers if not, wing play may be a bit desolate 

Play Creation 

-If the CAM is your focal point of play creation, they can quickly try to connect with the three attackers, if they’re not able to, they can pass the ball back to CDMs or fullbacks. If CDMs are active in play creation they can buy the CAM and attackers time while they control the ball with lateral passes amongst themselves or fullbacks. 

Player Types Combinations 

-some ideas you might like:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –destroyer CDM (focus: a CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast strong CB if possible, and one CB with decent passing in case the destroyer CDM isn’t the best at passing.

     –Combination 2:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –fast playmaking controlling CDM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB if possible would be good.

     –Combination 3:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –attacking wingers (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –playmaking shooting CAM (focus: a great short and long passing CAM, with good ball control, dribbling, long shooting and shot power)

          –playmaking controlling CDMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

4-3-3

LW                ST                RW

CM        CM        CM

LB            CB           CB            RB

GK

Pros

-solid formation with equal strength in each section of the team: defenders, midfielders, attackers

-can play through the middle as well as down the flanks

Cons

-Without staggered lines, connections amongst sections can be easily disturbed. For example, if the opponent has good CDMs, your CMs might struggle to pass to attackers.

-wingers can be a bit isolated since all other players are distant from them

Play Creation 

-The traditional, standard 4-3-3. The easiest way to create plays is going to be using the three midfielders. They can combine passes amongst each other while wingers and the striker find spaces up front. The fullbacks can help provide support from behind or push the ball forward to reach the wingers. Wingers involved in playmaking can cut in to receive passes from the CMs to connect with the striker. Fast attacking CMs can create “pass and go” passes to run into the box and possibly shoot.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool ideas to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –(on the side of speedy playmaking winger) one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –(on the side of dynamic winger) one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

     –Combination 2:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –one playmaking winger (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, ball control, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling middle CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box left and right CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box middle CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling left and right CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

4-3-3 (holding)

LW                  ST                RW

CM               CM

CDM

LB           CB           CB           RB

GK

Pros

-One of the most popular variations of the 4-3-3. It offers more balance in the middle with a little more protection. The CDM can allow the CMs to be more offensive and free.

-Passing in the middle is a little easier with a staggered CDM creating a passing triangle. Not to mention the CDM can begin distribution of the ball with a little less pressure.

Cons

-wingers can be isolated if your midfielders aren’t dominating in the middle or if the opposing fullbacks are closely marking them

-fullbacks have to travel higher to connect with wingers and in opponent’s counter attacks they may be out of position

Play Creation 

-Play creation with this iconic formation can be done in many ways. The standard is using your three midfielders to control the game with short passing, as fullbacks go up to provide options, as well as the attackers moving around. A striker with strength can be a playmaker allowing time for CMs or fullbacks to make runs into the last third of the field. Wingers can constantly make runs inwards or outwards to provide fast attacking options also.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool options to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –(on the side of speedy playmaking winger) one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –(on the side of dynamic winger) one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

     –Combination 2:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy attacking CM (focus: a fast CM with great attack position, short passing and finishing)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one playmaking winger (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, ball control, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –box to box CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

4-3-3 (defend)

LW                ST               RW

CM

CDM          CDM

LB             CB         CB            RB

GK

Pros

-build ups are easier with less pressure since you have two deep CDMs as available options to begin plays

-The CM has more freedom to be offensive and connect with everyone on the field without worrying so much about defending

Cons

-a lot of open space between midfielders and attackers, especially with two midfielders that are pushed a little back

-CM has more work to do trying to connect with attackers. You can have a CDM try to push up and help or they can be good at long passes to be your sort of quarterback like American football. 

Play Creation 

-We could start creating plays with a CM that connects with everyone on the field. As soon as they get the ball they can do “Pass and Go” passes with one of the CDMs, the fullbacks can push up to become options for passes, one of the CDMs can run up to find open spaces, or the CM could simply move up the field to try to connect with one of the attackers. If a CDM is good at passing and dribbling they can be the one to take the reins with the CM there as an option to connect with or make runs forward. The fullbacks receiving the ball can always try to find the winger down their line to pass it to, in turn the winger could “Pass and Go” with another player or simply try to dribble past the fullback. A striker or winger with good passing abilities can also help the CM by being a second playmaker on the field.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool ideas to try:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

     –Combination 2:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –attacking wingers (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –attacking CM (focus: a CM with great attack position, short passing and finishing)

          –fast playmaking controlling CDM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

     –Combination 3:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking CM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CDMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

4-3-3 (attack)

LW               ST               RW

CAM

CM           CM

LB           CB          CB           RB

GK

Pros

-attack minded formation with players ready to push forward

-spread attacking players to give opposition a tougher time defending

Cons

-a lot of players forward up mean there could be some struggles when opposition gets possession of the ball, especially when you have less players to defend

-CMs have an important role in helping the CAM in attacks and defenders to defend. If they’re not able to do both well this formation might struggle.

Play Creation 

-CMs have a lot to do but keeping busy is going to be fun. They can receive the ball and look to distribute to the rising fullbacks, to the CAM trying to get open or a direct long ball to the attackers. If nothing is available they can pass it amongst themselves while options open. Once the CAM is at play, the CAM can dribble off their marking defender and either find an attacker or simply connect with the CMs again. Wingers that receive the ball can connect with the striker, CAM, or even fullbacks to create “Pass and Go” situations. There are a lot of fun ways to play this.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool ideas for you:

     –Combination 1:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –attacking wingers (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer CM (focus: a fast CM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible. One of the CBs can also have decent passing to begin distributing the ball because one of the CMs will be a speedy destroyer and might not have great passing abilities.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one playmaking winger (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, ball control, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –At least one fast, strong CB if possible.

     –Combination 3: 

          –physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –shadow striker CAM (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

4-3-3 (false 9)

LW                                  RW

CF

CM              CM

CDM

LB            CB         CB            RB

GK

Pros

-This is a formation where the CF acts as a hybrid midfielder/ attacker, giving your playmaking a lot of fluidity and your opponents more work to deal with.

-CMs have less pressure with more creative freedom

Cons

-CF has a lot of work to do and sometimes can struggle with good opposing CDMs and CBs

-Wingers can be neutralized when CF drops too deep and opposing defenders have only wingers to cover

Play Creation 

-In this formation one way to create plays is through your elusive CF. They have the freedom to come down and connect with your CMs or make lateral runs to provide support to the wingers and even fullbacks. A CF with great dribbling can receive the ball and take on the marking opponents or find a winger for a “Pass and Go” situation. CMs that take the reins of your play creation can find a lot of options with so many surrounding players. With a controlling CM they can pass to a player and immediately go to an open space to receive the ball again. Overall there are a lot of awesome ways to play this formation.

Player Types Combinations 

-some ideas to check out:

     –Combination 1:

          –playmaking CF (focus: great ball control, dribbling, attack position and short passing precision)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible.

     –Combination 2:

          –playmaking shooting CF (focus: great ball control, dribbling, attack position, short passing, and precise shooting from anywhere on the last third of the field)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –At least one fast, strong CB if possible.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy dribbling CF (focus: a fast center forward with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –one playmaking winger (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, ball control, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –box to box CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –destroyer CDM (focus: a CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be good, if possible. One of the CBs can also have decent passing to begin distributing the ball because the CDM will be a destroyer that doesn’t prioritize passing.

5-2-3

LW                ST             RW

CM           CM

LB         CB       CB      CB         RB

GK

Pros

-players stretch out the field with powerful passes from CMs

-CMs direct flow of play with easy set targets and less commotion, since there are less forward moving players

Cons

-less forward moving players do make it a little easier for defenders to mark

-CMs can be overwhelmed if opponent has a lot of midfielders

Play Creation 

-Play creation primarily flows through the CMs. If you have fast moving CMs they can take the ball back and forth between fullbacks and attackers. CMs with good dribbling and passing can create “Pass and Go” passes amongst themselves to push the ball forward. CMs or fullbacks with good long passing can place deep “through” passes to fast attackers. If wide play is your preferred avenue of play creation, a supporting ST and CMs can facilitate fullbacks and wingers to fly down the flanks connecting passes. A playmaking ST can also act as a triangular recipient to CM passes while other players find open spaces.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool ideas to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –fast playmaking controlling CMs (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –(on the side of speedy playmaking winger) one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –(on the side of attacking winger) one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be decent at passing to start attacks from the back.

     –Combination 2:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –box to box CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be decent at passing to start attacks from the back.

     –Combination 3:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –fast playmaking controlling CMs (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be decent at passing to start attacks from the back.

Well it seems we’ve reached the end of three attacker formations. I thank you for your time checking out these ideas and I hope you enjoyed them! I hope we continue to enjoy this great sport. Until next time, reader, I wish you well!

Football/ Soccer Formations- Two Attackers

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

Soccer formations round two. 

In the previous blog we discussed one attacker formations. Now we look at two attacker formations. Again, I’m a casual console player of the fifa games as well as playing for fun in real life and I love coming up with different strategies while playing. I’m not a pro, but hopefully you enjoy reading the content below!

Shortcut words:

CB: 

center back

Fullbacks:

left back/ right back

CDM: 

center defensive midfielder

CM: 

center midfielder

CAM: 

center attacking midfielder

LM/RM: 

left midfielder/ right midfielder

LW/RW: 

left winger/ right winger

ST: 

striker

The term winger can be applied to both left/ right midfielders (who are midfielders) and left/ right wingers (who are attackers/ forwards). It can get confusing but it really is just to refer to the outside midfielders or attackers.

Formations include the following:

3-1-4-2

3-4-1-2

3-5-2

4-1-2-1-2 (wide)

4-1-2-1-2 (narrow)

4-1-3-2

4-2-2-2

4-3-1-2

4-4-2

4-4-2 (defensive)

5-2-1-2

5-3-2

3-1-4-2

ST         ST

LM         CM        CM         RM

CDM

CB         CB         CB

GK

Pros

-wide midfield flow of ball

-a lot of connection between midfielders and attackers

Cons

-If CDM or other midfielders don’t come down to help, the CBs will struggle 

-opposition wingers can cross more comfortably

-wide play has less support without overlapping/ supporting fullbacks

Play Creation 

-I would say there are a lot of zig zag passing possibilities between midfielders and strikers. In terms of connections you could triangulate plays between LM, left CM and left ST. You could do the same with the mirrored right side. Overall there are a lot of opportunities to take advantage of here when creating plays.

Player Types Combinations      

-some combinations I can think of:

     –Combination 1:

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

     –Combination 2:

          –one physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –box to box CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be a little better at passing to begin distributing the ball.

     –Combination 3:

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –speedy attacking CM (focus: a fast CM with great attack position, short passing and finishing)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

3-4-1-2

ST          ST

CAM

LM      CM         CM      RM

CB      CB      CB

GK

Pros

-nice middle flow of ball movement

-opponent has a lot of work cutting the many avenues of passes towards your strikers

Cons

-opposition wingers can cross more comfortably

-wide play has less support without overlapping/ supporting fullbacks

-midfielders have to remember to come down to help CBs

Play Creation 

-The strongest play creation is through the middle using the two CMs to connect with the CAM who connects with the two strikers. Having two CMs and two strikers forces the opponent to have to cover a lot of players. The wingers add an extra layer of attack prowess giving you a complete push towards scoring.

Player Types Combinations 

-some of the many options for you to try:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy playmaking STs (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –shadow striker CAM (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since the midfielders will be less defensive.

     –Combination 2:

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)     

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since the midfielders will be less defensive.

     –Combination 3:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box wingers (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –box to box CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be a little better at passing to begin distributing the ball.

3-5-2

ST         ST

CAM

LM                                  RM

CDM      CDM

CB        CB        CB

GK

Pros

-Nice spread of player positions

-a lot of player connections available and a variety of playing styles can be used

Cons

-less support in wide area without fullbacks

-opponents with attacking fullbacks and wingers can penetrate and cross easier

Play Creation 

-This formation has different possible ways to create plays. If your CDMs have good ball control and passing they could place dangerous through passes to the wingers, try to connect with the CAM or put deep passes directly to strikers. If the CAM is your center piece of distribution you could use them to pass around the ball with the surrounding players until an attacking hole opens up. If your wingers are your focal point of attacking, maybe using the surrounding players as support through “Pass and Go” passes and “through passes” is your best bet.

Player Types Combinations 

-some ideas that might work best:

     –Combination 1:

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –one playmaking winger (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, ball control, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy dribbling STs (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –playmaking shooting CAM (focus: a great short and long passing CAM, with good ball control, dribbling, long shooting and shot power)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling CDMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy playmaking STs (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be a little better at passing to begin distributing the ball.

4-1-2-1-2 (wide)

ST         ST

CAM

LM                             RM

CDM

LB       CB      CB       RB

GK

Pros

-a fun formation with a lot of wide play possibilities with a CAM and CDM that tie them in the middle

-player positions allow for dynamic playstyle

Cons

-a lot of open spaces in the midfield

-Sole CDM will have a lot to cover

Play Creation 

-With this formation there’s two really fun ways to play it that I can think of. One way it could be played is by using the CAM to quickly distribute to all the spread out players so they could attack the open spaces. Another way is by solely using wide player associations to attack down the flanks while CAM and CDM hold down the middle to distribute and hold off opponents.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool styles to play this formation:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling STs (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –speedy playmaking CAM (focus: a fast CAM with great attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –I would use two fast, strong CBs with good defending in this combination because fullbacks are more attacking. One of them can have decent passing to start distributing the ball.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy playmaking STs (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –speedy playmaking CAM (focus: a fast CAM with great attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great.

     –Combination 3:

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –box to box CAM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great.

4-1-2-1-2 (narrow)

ST        ST

CAM

CM             CM

CDM

LB         CB       CB        RB

GK

Pros

-down the middle mastery with easy zig zag passing to the strikers

-tight positioning allows for relying on teamwork more than individual talent

Cons

-wing play is very limited and inversely the opposition has easier wing play options

-if opposition has a lot of midfielders it can be a clogged game in the middle

Play Creation 

-For this formation the majority of the play creation is going to be down the middle. The passing combinations between the CMs and CAM will be key. With a playmaking CDM or playmaking STs you can add even more depth to the passing dominance. Your fullbacks are the wildcard. If they’re good dribblers they can push your attack up through the flanks or if they’re good passers they can widen your passing plays.

Player Types Combinations 

-some options to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling STs (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –I would use two fast, strong CBs with good defending in this combination because fullbacks are more attacking.

     –Combination 2:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –shadow striker CAM (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)          

          –box to box CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great. One of the CBs can have decent passing to start distributing the ball.

     –Combination 3:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –playmaking shooting CAM (focus: a great short and long passing CAM, with good ball control, dribbling, long shooting and shot power)

          –speedy attacking CM (focus: a fast CM with great attack position, short passing and finishing)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great.

4-1-3-2

ST         ST

LM                 CM                RM

CDM

LB          CB          CB          RB

GK

Pros

-nice spread out formation that allows you to move the ball wide and stretch the field

-CM has the freedom to move around the field to connect with different teammates 

Cons

-The midfield can feel a bit spread out and if the opponent has a strong midfield they may have the upper hand in the middle of the field

-If your CM isn’t one of your best players, the role of connecting with the surrounding players might not be as fluid and will lower your success with this formation

Play Creation 

-One way to create plays is to run everything through your CM. Bouncing around they can be connecting with the surrounding players trying to find a weakness in your opponent’s structure. This formation can also be dominating through the wings if your STs and fullbacks support their respective side. You could bounce passes off the middle player and combine with the wide players to move up the field.

Player Types Combinations

-some ideas to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –I would use two fast, strong CBs with good defending in this combination because fullbacks are more attacking.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy playmaking STs (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great. One CB can have decent passing to start feeding the ball to the team.

     –Combination 3:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –I would use two fast, strong CBs with good defending in this combination because fullbacks are more attacking.

4-2-2-2

ST         ST

CAM                  CAM

CDM        CDM

LB         CB          CB         RB

GK

Pros

-simple, straightforward attack patterns

-a lot of passing connections focusing on the CDMs, CAMs or a combination of both

Cons

-CDMs that are unable to pass to CAMs will have a hard time getting the plays started

-wing play will be limited unless CAMs open wide

Play Creation 

-With this formation either the CDMs, CAMs, or a combination of them take the reins. You could have a team where the CDMs begin your plays and are active in passing short and long to all the players around, looking for weaknesses in your opponent’s structure. If the CAMs are your focal point of play creation, they will need support from fullbacks, at least one of the CDMs and at least one of the STs. It may seem a bit tedious but the result will feel awesome with fluid moving CAMs pivoting in different directions giving your opponent a hard time.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool combinations to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –playmaking STs (focus: a striker whose most important focus is short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning)

          –shadow striker CAMs (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –playmaking controlling CDMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great.

     –Combination 2:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –traditional CAMs (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great. One CB can have decent passing to start feeding the ball to the team.

     –Combination 3:

          –one playmaking ST (focus: a striker whose most important focus is short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –one box to box CAM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –Both fast and strong CBs would be best.

4-3-1-2

ST         ST

CAM

CM       CM       CM

LB         CB         CB         RB

GK

Pros

-Very midfield heavy and dominant

-Many ways to use CMs in different playstyles

Cons

-Wide play is limited

-If opponent also has many midfielders, it can be a sludgy game in the middle

Play Creation 

-Play creation is most effective using your three CMs as the engine of your attack. The outer CMs can constantly connect with the fullbacks and CAM to begin attacks. The middle CM and CAM can link up to make the opponent press in the middle while having the outer CMs push up ready to provide options. The CAM can pivot around in their area looking for an open striker or giving the ball back to CMs.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool options for this formation:

     –Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling STs (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling middle CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box left and right CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great.

     –Combination 2:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one playmaking ST (focus: a striker whose most important focus is short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning)

          –speedy playmaking CAM (focus: a fast CAM with great attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box middle CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling left and right CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great.

     –Combination 3:

          –one playmaking ST (focus: a striker whose most important focus is short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning)

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –shadow striker CAM (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –speedy attacking left or right CM (focus: a fast CM with great attack position, short passing and finishing)

          –speedy destroyer middle CM (focus: a fast CM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –playmaking controlling left or right CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great. One CB can have decent passing to start feeding the ball to the team.

4-4-2

ST         ST

LM        CM         CM        RM

LB         CB          CB          RB

GK

Pros

-strength in all areas of the field

-fun ways to have different player connections on the filed

Cons

-Without a decent amount of playmaking players, this formation can be a bit static

-The two CMs have a lot of work to do, requiring some combination of attacking and defense 

Play Creation

-With this formation player connections are very abundant and very triangular for the most part. We could go with a passing association between the LM, left CM and left back, or we could begin our attack with the mirrored right side. Once the ball is passed the midfield the new passing triangle could be between the LM, left CM and left ST, or again the mirrored right side. If the CM’s are having good control in the middle, maybe passing between them and the ST’s would be your best bet, letting the wingers run down field to open up plays. 

Player Types Combinations

-Some cool ideas to consider:

     -Combination 1:

          –one playmaking ST (focus: a striker whose most important focus is short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning

          –one physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –box to box CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –(on the same side as dynamic winger) one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –(on the same side as speedy playmaking winger) one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –I would recommend at least one fast, strong CB, preferably on the same side as the dribbling fullback.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy dribbling STs (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –playmaking wingers (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy attacking CM (focus: a fast CM with great attack position, short passing and finishing)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –One strong, fast CB would be a good fit. The other CB could have decent passing abilities since one of your CMs will be attacking more.

     –Combination 3:

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –one physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –At least one strong, fast CB would be good.

4-4-2 (defensive)

ST          ST

LM                               RM

CDM      CDM

LB        CB         CB       RB

GK

Pros

-More defensive structure than the regular 4-4-2 to offer more security in the midfield 

-The CDMs can have a more mixed role and offer an opportunity to begin plays earlier from the back

Cons

-CDMs sitting a little deeper make for slower play progression unless CDMs are a bit more dynamic

-Midfielders will struggle to connect with STs if opposition has abundant midfielders

Play Creation

-One way to make plays with this formation is CDMs connecting with wingers and fullbacks for quick passing combinations, if CDMs have great long passing they can filter deep passes to strikers that are in good attack position. Another great way to make plays is by having the wingers connect with their closest fullback and striker, making their way forward while CDMs offer short passing support when they’re needed.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool options to consider:

     –Combination 1:

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling CDMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –(on the same side as dynamic winger) one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –(on the same side as speedy playmaking winger) one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB should be fine if possible.

     –Combination 2:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –playmaking wingers (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –At least one fast, strong CB would be great. The other CB could have decent passing so they could help with ball distribution.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy playmaking STs (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –fast playmaking controlling CDMs (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –At least one fast, strong CB should be good if possible.

5-2-1-2

ST          ST

CAM

CM            CM

LB       CB        CB       CB        RB

GK

Pros

-A lot of fluidity down the middle

-Fullbacks can run down the flanks connecting with players in the middle to allow for zig zag passing up the field

Cons

-Fullbacks have a lot of work to do, if not able to go up and down the field your attacks may be weaker

-Midfielders have to cover more field and have more responsibilities

Play Creation 

-Play creation is interesting with this formation. If you choose to have an offensive CM, they can connect with the CAM like a duo pushing to find the STs or fullbacks down the flanks. If the CAM is the focal point of plays they can focus on quick passing with the surrounding players until a hole in the opposition’s structure is found.

Player Types Combinations 

-some of the best options I could think of:

     –Combination 1:

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –attacking CM (focus: a CM that goes up into the goal area with good attack positioning, short passing and finishing)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be decent at passing to start attacks from the back.

     –Combination 2:

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –playmaking shooting CAM (focus: a great short and long passing CAM, with good ball control, dribbling, long shooting and shot power)

          –fast playmaking controlling CMs (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be decent at passing to start attacks from the back.

     –Combination 3:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –box to box CAM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be decent at passing to start attacks from the back.

5-3-2

ST          ST

CM            CM

CDM

LB       CB       CB       CB       RB

GK

Pros

-There’s good midfield control and added defensive security with the extra CB

-Strikers with various role combinations can make it feel like you’re not missing a player going forward (since there’s an extra player on defense in this line of 5)

Cons

-If midfielders aren’t the best in their roles there’s going to be a struggle in creating plays and a disconnection with the STs

-Fullbacks have extra work up and down the flank without help from wingers

Play Creation 

-Similar to 4-3-3 formations, this formation relies on the three midfielders to take reigns of your play creation. Depending on the player types on the field, the combination for passing could be with STs that come down as playmakers, fullbacks that act as zig zag passers, and even with a CB that can place deep passes to the STs. There’s many combinations for you to choose from.

Player Types Combinations 

-some options I could think of:

     –Combination 1:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –(on the side of speedy dribbling ST) one speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –(on the side of playmaking shooting ST) one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be decent at passing to start attacks from the back.

     –Combination 2:

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –one strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –box to box CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –fast playmaking controlling CDM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be decent at passing to start attacks from the back.

     –Combination 3:

          –one speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –attacking CM (focus: a CM that goes up into the goal area with good attack positioning, short passing and finishing)

          –fast playmaking controlling CM (focus: speed, short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –The left and right CBs should be as fast and strong as possible. The middle CB can be decent at passing to start attacks from the back.

Well, that seems to cover two attacker formations. That was a long read and I’m grateful to those that checked out my fun ideas regarding formations and strategies. Football/ soccer is a fun and awesome sport and I’m glad we share this passion together. Until next time, I wish you well, reader!

Football/ Soccer Formations- One Attacker

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

Soccer formations. 

Whether it’s in real life or in video games, soccer formations are where you start building a team. I’m a casual console player of the fifa games as well as playing for fun in real life and I love coming up with different strategies while playing. Let us know in the comments below what you love about soccer!

With so many formations to choose from, how do we organize them and where do we start? I think for this series of blogs we’ll organize them by how many attackers are at the front. Not to say it’s by importance, but more so by organization.

Shortcut words:

CB: 

center back

Fullbacks:

left back/ right back

CDM: 

center defensive midfielder

CM: 

center midfielder

CAM: 

center attacking midfielder

LM/RM: 

left midfielder/ right midfielder

LW/RW: 

left winger/ right winger

ST: 

striker

The term winger can be applied to both left/ right midfielders (who are midfielders) and left/ right wingers (who are attackers/ forwards). It can get confusing but it really is just to refer to the outside midfielders or attackers. 

Anyways, back to formations. Let’s start simple, one attacker at the front! 

Formations include the following:

3-4-2-1

4-1-4-1

4-2-3-1 (narrow)

4-2-3-1 (wide)

4-3-2-1

4-4-1-1 (midfield)

4-5-1 (attack)

4-5-1 (flat)

5-4-1

3-4-2-1

ST

CAM         CAM

LM         CM           CM        RM

CB         CB         CB

GK

Pros

-this formation gives you an expansive and versatile midfield

-many ways to combine midfielder playstyles

-great player positions for attacking playstyles

-many player passing connections

Cons

-defensive weakness when midfielders don’t help defensively

-opposition wingers can cross more comfortably

-lone striker can struggle if midfield isn’t able to create plays 

-wide play has less support without overlapping/ supporting fullbacks

Play Creation

-This formation thrives in using different player passing connections. You could triangulate plays between LM, left CAM and left CM. You could do the same with the mirrored right side. You could use the CAMs and CMs to connect passing between them. If the striker has good passing they could triangulate with the CAMs. In general this formation seems to favor different combinations of player connections. Plays will tend to flow more through the middle unless the CAMs are given instructions to go wide.

Player Types Combinations

-some of the best combinations I can think of:

     –Combination 1: 

          –playmaking shooting ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and can shoot from anywhere)

          –traditional CAMs (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense) 

          –destroyer CM (focus: defending, aggression and strength) 

          –attacking wingers (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be a little better at passing to begin distributing the ball.

     –Combination 2:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, strength and ball control to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –shadow striker CAMs (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking wingers (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be fast and strong also without needing to distribute the ball since all the midfielders have good ball control and passing.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –shadow striker CAM (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –attacking CM (focus: a CM that goes up into the goal area with good attack positioning, short passing and finishing)

          –defensive playmaking wingers (focus: speedy wingers that have good short passing for support and good defensive qualities to help the CBs)

          –The left and right CBs should be fast and strong. Your middle CB can be a little better at passing to begin distributing the ball.

4-1-4-1

ST

LM          CM          CM         RM

CDM

LB          CB          CB          RB

GK

Pros

-this formation gives great stability and fortification to the midfield

-wide stretch of the ball in midfield

-works better with defensive styles of play

-can be more offensive using a high defensive line (having your players up higher on the field)

Cons

-build up is slow because of heavy midfield presence and not enough attackers

-can be a bit defensive or sludgy in the midfield

Play Creation

-This formation allows for easy triangle passing between the inner midfield with options to move it wide immediately when pressure is felt. The wide player can then choose to take a 1 on 1 down flank, pass to inner midfielders, pass to the closest fullback, or pass directly to the striker to shield the ball. “Pass and Go” passing (or known as forward run passing, when the player passes the ball and makes a run forward to receive the ball again) works great here whether it’s a CM doing it or a wide player. It allows for forward fluidity when not trying to contain the game.

Player Types Combinations

-some of the best combinations I can think of:

     –Combination 1: 

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –playmaking wingers (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, ball control, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –attacking CM (focus: a CM that goes up into the goal area with good attack positioning, short passing and finishing)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great.

     –Combination 2:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and strength to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking shooting CM (focus: a great short and long passing CM, with good ball control, dribbling, long shooting, shot power and decent defending)

          –attacking CM (focus: a CM that goes up into the goal area with good attack positioning, short passing and finishing)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy playmaking ST (focus: a fast striker that has great ball control and short passing precision)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –speedy attacking CM (focus: a fast CM with great attack position, short passing and finishing)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –playmaking controlling CDM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great here.

4-2-3-1 (narrow)

ST

CAM        CAM        CAM

CDM          CDM

LB           CB           CB         RB

GK

Pros

-midfield dominance

-pass connection is easier because players are scattered around midfield

-forward progression is easier because players are staggered in the midfield

Cons

-very little wide option of play

-fullbacks have more work without anyone else down the flanks to help them

-striker solely depends on CAMs for shooting opportunities

-playing against formations with wingers and fullbacks will be more difficult unless you have really good fullbacks 

Play Creation

-The obvious area for creating plays is going to be between the three CAMs. They are going to be the pillars of your playstyle. Unless you have fast dribbling CAMs this style of play creation is going to be based more on a slow, possession style, moving through the middle. There will be a lot of options of “Pass and Go” between the CAMs and ST.

Player Types Combinations

-some of the best combinations I can think of:

     –Combination 1: 

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –traditional CAMs (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –I would use two fast strong CBs with good in this combination because fullbacks are more attacking.

     –Combination 2:

          –playmaking ST (focus: a striker whose most important focus is short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning)

          –shadow striker left and right CAMs (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –box to box middle CAM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –box to box CDMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast and strong CB would be great here.

     –Combination 3:

          –playmaking shooting ST (focus: great ball control, short passing and can shoot from anywhere)

          –traditional left and right CAMs (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –shadow striker middle CAM (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –playmaking controlling CDMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –I would use two fast strong CBs with good defending in this combination because fullbacks are more attacking.

4-2-3-1 (wide)

ST

CAM

LM                                      RM

CDM       CDM

LB          CB        CB          RB

GK

Pros

-offers a little bit of everything in terms of structure and playstyles

-staggered players around the field

-a bit more beneficial to defensive playstyles but can be flexible to offensive playstyles with the right players and tactics

Cons

-if wingers aren’t attack focused, the formation can feel slow in build up

-playing against a team that also has a lot of midfielders can feel like the midfield is clogged

-if your CAM is neutralized by your opponent, it will limit the plays that can be created

Play Creation

-This formation has various ways to create plays. The simplest way is using the CAM to dictate the movement of the ball. Being in the middle of five players they’re able to receive the ball, dribble and move it where it’s best. Wingers with the support of the surrounding players can create a lot of “Pass and Go” plays or make runs behind the defense. CDMs with playmaking qualities can also be the ones that dictate the movement of the ball and be the ones in charge of distributing the ball.

Player Types Combinations

-some of the best combinations I can think of:

     –Combination 1: 

          –playmaking shooting ST (focus: great ball control, short passing and can shoot from anywhere)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –I would use at least one fast, strong CB with good defending since you’ll have a speedy destroyer CDM.

     –Combination 2:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –playmaking shooting CAM (focus: a great short and long passing CAM, with good ball control, dribbling, long shooting and shot power)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –box to box CDM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer CDM (focus: a fast CDM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –I would use at least one fast, strong CB with good defending since you’ll have a speedy destroyer CDM.

     –Combination 3:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: great ball control, short passing with strength to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –shadow striker CAM (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CDMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –I would use two fast, strong CBs with good defending since you’ll have CDMs that won’t be super defensive.

4-3-2-1

ST

CAM          CAM

CM        CM        CM

LB            CB       CB           RB

GK

Pros

-circular passing between midfielders

-versatility with how the three CMs could be used

-great support for down the middle attacks

Cons

-weaker width attacks

-lack of CDM has the midfield a little higher up, sometimes unable to help CBs defend

Play Creation 

-Play creation will definitely rely on this circular midfield flow. Whether it’s “Pass and Go” between CMs and CAMs or just straight possession while fullbacks move up to open field, this formation has a distinct feel for how it operates.

Player Types Combinations 

-some cool combinations to try:

     -Combination 1:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –traditional CAMs (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box left and right CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –playmaking controlling middle CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –I would use at least one fast, strong CB in this combination.

     –Combination 2:

          –playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning)

          –one shadow striker CAM (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –one playmaking shooting CAM (focus: a great short and long passing CAM, with good ball control, dribbling, long shooting and shot power)

          –playmaking controlling left and right CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy destroyer middle CM (focus: a fast CM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –I would use at least one fast, strong CB with good defending.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –traditional CAMs (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking shooting middle CM (focus: a great short and long passing CM, with good ball control, dribbling, long shooting, shot power and decent defending)

          –speedy destroyer left and right CMs (focus: a fast CM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –At least one fast, strong CB with good defending should be fine since there will be a lot of players with defensive stats.

4-4-1-1 (midfield)

ST

CAM

LM         CM         CM        RM

LB          CB          CB          RB

GK

Pros

-good midfield triangulation 

-variety in attacking avenues

Cons

-flat midfield line can be passed through with a good opposing passer

-CAM and ST can be isolated if opposition has good CDMs

Play Creation 

-There’s a nice triangle connection between CAM and CMs that will dictate most of the plays. The wingers and fullbacks have good connection as well with support from the middle triangle.

Player Types Combinations 

-some suggestions:

     -Combination 1:

          –physical ST (focus: a strong, aerial striker with great finishing and shot power)

          –traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –Two fast, strong CBs with good defending should be good.

     –Combination 2:

          –playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning)

          –box to box CAM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one attacking winger (focus: attack positioning, speed and shooting, especially from distance)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –I would use at least one fast, strong CB with good defending. The speedy supportive fullbacks should help defensively.

     –Combination 3:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, ball control and strength to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –shadow striker CAM (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer CM (focus: a fast CM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –I would use two fast, strong CBs with good defending because fullbacks might not be as reliable on defense. 

4-5-1 (attack)

ST

CAM               CAM

LM                    CM                    RM

LB            CB            CB            RB

GK

Pros

-heavy on offensive

-playmaking is done on opposition half most of the time

-nice balance of central and wide attacks

Cons

-midfield very open for opposition to attack

-midfield very open for opposition to attack (Yes, I put it twice because it’s a big con :) )

Play Creation 

-The top third of your field will have fun with this formation. The two CAMs will dictate most of the plays, using the wingers as support or relying on the striker. Overloading the top third of the field will be key.

Player Types Combinations

-a couple interesting combinations to play with:

     –Combination 1:

          –playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning)

          –traditional CAMs (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling CM (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –I would use two fast, strong CBs in this combination.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –one traditional CAM (focus: attack positioning, short and long passing, ball control and dribbling)

          –one shadow striker CAM (focus: speed, attack positioning, dribbling, and shooting, constantly making runs into the goal area like an extra striker)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –speedy destroyer CM (focus: a fast CM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –I would use two fast, strong CBs with good defending because fullbacks might not be as reliable on defense.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –box to box CAMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –box to box CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –I would use two fast, strong CBs with good defending.

4-5-1 (flat)

ST

LM       CM       CM       CM       RM

LB            CB            CB            RB

GK

Pros

-the midfield flat line provides great horizontal play 

-passing combinations always have support to the sides including long passes to the other side

Cons

-lacking a staggered midfield can allow opposition to loft through passes and long balls over the line 

-striker very isolated if midfielders don’t find a way to connect with them

Play Creation 

-This formation is interesting because with a line of 5 midfielders there’s different ways to create plays. For one, fullbacks can connect with the wingers to push the ball up while CMs provide support as they go up. CMs can be offensive and fast to do “Pass and Go” passes and then connect with wingers or the striker.

Player Types Combinations 

-some combination ideas:

     –Combination 1:

          –playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning)

          –dynamic wingers (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –playmaking controlling left and right CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –box to box middle CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –I would use two fast, strong CBs with good defending.

     –Combination 2:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –speedy attacking middle CM (focus: a fast CM with great attack position, short passing and finishing)

          –box to box left and right CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB with good defending should be fine.

     –Combination 3:

          –strong playmaking ST (focus: great ball control, short passing and strength to hold the ball while teammates open up)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –box to box left and right CM (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –speedy destroyer middle CM (focus: a fast CM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy supportive fullbacks (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –At least one fast, strong CB with good defending should be fine.

5-4-1

ST

LM            CM            CM            RM

LB        CB        CB        CB        RB

GK

Pros

-defensively secure, allows fullbacks to create plays with wingers a little more freely

-flat line of four midfielders allows for ball movement horizontally when there’s pressure

Cons

-since you have an extra player defending, you miss an extra player attacking

-players in top half have to be very precise to be able to make good attacking plays since you have one less attacking player

Play Creation 

-I personally love playing five at the back formations with an attacking/ pushing forward mindset. With this formation the CMs are going to be making quick connections with each other, the wingers and the striker. The fullbacks will add strength to wing plays allowing for different passing types between the wingers and them. The striker, depending on their playstyle, will have to be precise in their role because you’ll have less players attacking.

Player Types Combinations 

-some of the many combinations:

     –Combination 1:

          –playmaking ST (focus: great short passing, ball control, dribbling and attack positioning)

          –one dynamic winger (focus: fast wingers with great attack positioning, ball control and dribbling)

          –one speedy playmaking winger (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –box to box CMs (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –(on the same side as dynamic winger) one speedy supportive fullback (focus: these are fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, short and long passing and decent defending)

          –(on the same side as speedy playmaking winger) one speedy dribbling fullback (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –For CBs I would use two fast, strong left and right CBs with good defending. The middle CB could be another fast, strong CB, a passing CB or a dribbling CB, whatever fits your playstyle.

     –Combination 2:

          –dribbling shooting ST (focus: a striker with great ball control, dribbling, attack position and can shoot from up close and far with precision)

          –speedy playmaking wingers (focus: fast wingers with great ball control, short and long passing including crossing)

          –playmaking controlling CMs (focus: short and long passing, ball control and decent defending)

          –speedy dribbling fullbacks (focus: fullbacks with a lot of speed, great ball control, dribbling and decent defending)

          –For CBs I would use two fast, strong left and right CBs with good defending. The middle CB could be another fast, strong CB, a passing CB or a dribbling CB, whatever fits your playstyle.

     –Combination 3:

          –speedy dribbling ST (focus: a fast striker with great ball control and dribbling to dribble past defenders)

          –playmaking wingers (focus: wingers with good attack positioning, ball control, dribbling and all around passing including crossing)

          –speedy destroyer CM (focus: a fast CM with great defending, strength and aggression)

          –speedy attacking CM (focus: a fast CM with great attack position, short passing and finishing)

          –box to box fullbacks (focus: all around complete player able to help on offense and defense)

          –For CBs I would use two fast, strong left and right CBs with good defending. The middle CB could be another fast, strong CB, a passing CB or a dribbling CB, whatever fits your playstyle.

Well, that’s about it for one striker formations. Thanks for reading, I hope these ideas help somehow. Together we can continue to enjoy the beautiful game of football/ soccer. Let me know if you guys have any suggestions, opinions or ideas in the comments. 

Have a good day!