Finding Inner Peace in your Life

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

This is a reflection post, about what? I don’t know. Let’s make it about inner peace. 

Inner peace.

Sometimes a deep breath and remembering good memories is enough to tranquilize a stressed out mind. Other times you need to set up a Zen garden in your backyard and meditate at sunrise. Regardless of what you need it’s important to help the brain stay as healthy as possible. Life does its thing and rag dolls us all over the place. It’s up to us to step on the brakes often and cool down our sentient engine.

Searching for tips online helps. I’ll do a light search and show you what I find.

…

Well, I found a lot of personal websites giving similar advice: practice mindfulness, shepherd your thoughts, deep breathing, self care, etc. They have amazing information that you can take the time to check out. I’m not an expert and this post is simply to elaborate and give my opinion on the subject of inner peace.

Let’s continue.

I mean for starters it beats having inner war; constantly conflicted internally, stressing out about this, about that. 

Not to say having inner peace is going to solve all your problems and be stress free but it will reduce the noise in your head. Everything is done internally so we can’t have a mechanic simply pop in and fix some parts unless it’s something found in an MRI. We have the tools at our fingertips with a couple simple searches online. You can either read great articles from reputable sources or even be connected to professionals that can help even further. It’s a little easier than it was in the past. If we’re talking way in the past they probably would have beat you up a little bit and say they got the demons out of you. 

Anyways to wrap up, I’d like to encourage people to put some work in on taking care of themselves. Life is not easy. Having some notion of inner peace goes a long way in making this existence easier. It even helps you spread good energy to everyone around you so it’s a win win win. I wish you all the best in finding the inner peace we all deserve to have.

Garlic Powder for a Healthier Life

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Eating healthier is a massive part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. An easy way to eat healthier is by learning to use seasonings better. That means less salt, more combinations of seasonings, and more garlic powder. 

According to the National Institutes of Health website garlic powder loses some health benefits during its processing stage but it’s still a great option to help maintain a healthier life. It helps reduce the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and boosts your immune system. This, alongside many more benefits, makes this seasoning a must have in your lineup of spices. 

Some simple recipes include the following:

Simple garlic bread

The absolutely delicious and not always healthy; garlic bread. It’s a perfect side for most meals and can be made healthier. Start by picking your choice of bread, it can be in slices or vertically cut. Next, drizzle extra virgin olive oil (or an alternative healthy substitute of your choice) lightly. Follow it by sprinkling garlic powder to your liking, I would recommend lightly. Next, sprinkle dried parsley; a couple of sprinkles go a long way. Lastly, add a pinch (or less) of salt to give it a punch of flavor. Turn on your oven at 350° and when ready bake it for about 10-15 minutes depending how toasted you want the bread. You can also choose to use the stove top method instead. Put your prepared bread in a pan on low heat, cover it and wait a couple minutes. That’s it. When you’re happy with the crispiness, take it out of the pan, let it cool and enjoy!

Mashed potatoes

For great mashed potatoes you can simply follow recipe instructions in the back of the potato flakes box. I would recommend lowering the salt portion and using a healthy oil substitute for butter. If you prefer using real potatoes simply find an online recipe or youtube recipe you like. Again, less salt than they suggest and using a healthy oil substitute for butter. To any recipe you use you can add garlic powder to enhance the flavor and make it healthier. 

Honey glazed chicken

Honey glazed chicken is a simple recipe that is sometimes called Asian style chicken. A simple way to make it is by seasoning chicken of your choice with a little soy sauce, honey, garlic powder and black pepper (going light on the soy sauce and honey). Choose the appropriate oven heat and time depending on the cut of chicken you use and enjoy a light, flavorful meal, with the addition of rice and some oven roasted vegetables.

Any form of garlic is great to incorporate into your culinary world. Garlic powder is less of a hassle to use for a quick addition into recipes. Cooking healthier doesn’t have to equal bland tasting meals, instead, learning to use flavorful seasonings like garlic powder can boost your culinary experiences.

Champions League Final 2026

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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.

California Spring Recipes

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Spring is upon us here in California and the curiosity to try new recipes is at its peak. According to various food websites like California Grown these are some of the many produce options that are ripe in California’s spring:

-Asparagus

-Avocados

-Peas

-Rhubarb

-Tomatoes

-Cucumbers

-Blueberries

-Cherries

-Grapes

There’s so much we can do with the produce available. Food recipes, snacks, sauces, juices, shakes, you name it. The important thing is using the in-season, abundant, cost-saving produce!

Here’s a couple of suggestions including some of these ingredients:

Roasted asparagus

This dish is a great way to enjoy asparagus and other vegetables you’d like to add to the mix. The process is simple, lightly spray an aluminum covered, oven safe pan (with a healthier, higher smoke point oil spray, like avocado oil spray), throw on the vegetables (whole or chopped) with seasonings of your choice (going light on the salt) between 400-415 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes. Roasting vegetables is a great way to enjoy meals while staying healthy. You could pair these roasted vegetables with your choice of protein. For a coastal dinner sauteed tilapia accompanied by lemon and herbs seasoned rice should pair nicely. If you’re feeling a bit more steakhouse dinner you could pair it with your choice of steak and mashed potatoes. Roasted asparagus will be great either way you pair them.

Avocado toast

A quick and delicious option. You simply toast the bread, mash avocado over it and add your favorite toppings. It’s very versatile with endless combinations. You could keep it minimal with just avocado if you want a quick bite. You could add a little depth with toppings like bacon, caramelized onions and tomatoes or keep it breakfasty with eggs over the avocado. Customize it how you like!

Fruit bowl

By using the in-season blueberries, cherries and grapes you can have the base of a fruit bowl. Simply add other favorites to complete the succulent snack. You could even add the in-season cucumbers to add some freshness.

Fresh salad


This is another simple option that allows for a lot of customization. A base of iceberg lettuce can combine with cucumbers, tomatoes, black olives, croutons and your choice of dressing like ranch or Italian. For a spicy kick in your salads a great addition is pepperoncini or banana yellow peppers.

In general it’s always a good idea to take advantage of in-season produce. You save some money, you add variety to your food palette, you get to eat food in its peak flavor and you enjoy life a little more.

Los Tiempos

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

El ayer lo llevo dentro,

da fuerzas hacia el bien.

Los recuerdos dejan huella

como lunares en la piel.

Las memorias son profundas,

son un mundo al alcance.

Pero no te pierdas muy dentro,

congela el presente y corta el avance.

Usa los tiempos con balance,

no te olvides del pasado.

Hacia un futuro justo y brillante,

vive el presente feliz y con cuidado.

Word Analysis: Somber

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

In this blog post we’re doing a word analysis of the word somber. 

Somber.

It sounds beautiful to me; like a word that has warmth with red and yellow hues of a sunset, maybe because it sounds like ember. It also sounds like the Spanish word sombrero which is a type of wide brimmed straw hat in Mexico. That sombrero takes my mind to a celebratory mood with good vibes and human liveliness.

Somber.

The definition doesn’t really do justice to the way the word sounds, in my opinion. The definition of somber according to google is: dark or dull in color or tone; gloomy. Another definition is: oppressively solemn or sober in mood; grave. Oof. Not the most colorful or lively word, but it’s ok we could live with that.

Now let’s use somber in a couple of sentences to get a feel for it. There’s many ways to start this journey. I can think of a rainy, somber afternoon covered with darkened clouds. People rushing through the streets trying to evade the rain, while a man is standing in the street corner with a somber expression as he stares at his phone. Some are walking slowly enjoying the rain but for the most part an invisible cloud of frustration and somber attitude hangs over the city.

I apologize to those that enjoy the rainy days.

Somber is an interesting word to use and gives sentences an elegant draping. It brings the reader slowly into a somber landscape that needs a subtle presentation. 

Different Ways to Shoot in Soccer

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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.

What do dogs dream of?

~ BALevolent Virtue ~ Leave a comment

     What do dogs dream of? Do they drift off into another plane of existence chasing butterflies and squirrels in a never-ending meadow filled with pleasant aromas or are they fantasizing the warmth of their bed next to an open fire in the cold winter days. 

     Whatever it is they dream of, I hope we can dream the same. Not necessarily running in meadows chasing butterflies, unless it’s your actual desire in which case you have all my expressive support, but rather finding a peaceful, relaxing place in our head that we can visit when we need to power down. 

     This place can be used to travel to when we feel stressed, anxious or just bored. This is a place we can visit mentally when we feel like we need to reset back to our most basic self. 

     Life is not easy, and at times it can be overwhelming with its little idiosyncrasies that can affect each person in different ways. This mental haven can help us catch our breath, like a sort of pause. Not a runaway path but instead a place where you can think of a new path to solve a current problem. 

     What do dogs dream of? From a simple google search it would seem it consists of their simple doggy life. We can learn from them and find a place in our mind to wander freely and peacefully in the eternal search for a better life.

Football/ Soccer Formations- 9v9

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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.