Alright, let's dive into the 4321, a formation that's been a staple in the FIFA/EA FC meta for a while now. We're going to break down how it plays in FC25, and whether it's still a top-tier option.
Formation and Tactics
The formation is, of course, the 4321. The key here is the unbalanced approach.
- Defensive Approach: Aggressive.
- Line Height: This is where things get interesting. I initially tested a line height of 91, which is super high and puts a ton of pressure on the opponent. It really suffocates them in their own half. However, the crazy midfield congestion we saw in FC24 isn't there anymore. So, while the high line can be effective, it's a risk. I recommend a safer option: a line height of 60. It still provides pressure without getting through-balled all game long.
Player Roles
Let's get into the player roles, which are crucial for making this formation tick.
- Striker: Target Forward and Balanced. This is the perfect option for me. If your striker has the Poacher Plus or Plus Plus version, then Poacher is a fantastic option. Advanced Forward is also a respectable option.
- Cams: Shadow Striker. This is the only option that makes them make those darting runs, just like last year. Don't worry too much if your player doesn't have Cam as their position. It really doesn't make that big of a difference.
- Defensive Center Mids: Box to Box and Balanced. Make sure your best passing player is in the center. A lot of balls are going to go through that central player.
- Attacking Midfielder: Half Winger and Attack. This is the best possible role for this player because she provides us with some width with an otherwise pretty narrow formation. If you end up going for the playmaker role make sure to have the focus on roaming to give this player the freedom to play as a central cam as a VI player this is your most attacking midfielder you want to just have her be free.
- Defensive Fullback: Fullback and Balanced. This provides a wide passing option.
- Center Backs: Defender and Defend. Keep it simple.
- Attacking Fullback: Ving Back and Balanced. You could also go for Attacking Wing Back if you're confident in defending, but make sure the focus is unbalanced.
Gameplay and Defensive Considerations
One of the main problems with attacking formations this year is that attackers don't track back. However, with the 4321, the two Cams actually count as midfielders, not forwards. This means they do come back and help defend.
- Defensive Shape: You're not defending in a 4-4-2 or a 4-3-3. You have your typical fullbacks, three midfielders, and the two Cams coming back to help, making it a more elevated version of a 4-5-1 in defense.
Is the 4321 Still Meta?
Is the 4321 still at the top of the meta? Well, it's one of the best formations in the game.
- Attacking: Attacking in this formation is easier than with 95% of other formations. You already have all the passing lines in your mind, which speeds up your thinking and attacks.
- Overall: It's not quite as dominant as last year, but it's still a very reliable formation. If you have some coins and can afford good players, you'll find success. It's familiar, easy to play, and just feels right.