Alright, let's dive into this awesome 4-2-3-1 variation! After the success of the 4-3-3 tactics, I've been exploring the 4-2-3-1 to shake things up, and this one is a banger. Huge shoutout to FC Pirate on Twitter – all the credit goes to him for the original custom tactics. You can find his tweet with all the details in the pinned comment. He's a top guy, and he gave me the green light to share this with you all.
Formation and General Tactics
We're running the 4-2-3-1, specifically the second variation. The main difference from the standard 4-2-3-1 is the positioning of the wide players. In the original, the right and left CAMs act as wingers, which isn't ideal. This second variation gives us a left and right mid, allowing for more effective custom tactics.
- Formation: 4-2-3-1 (Second Variation)
- Build Up Play: Balanced. This keeps things solid in the back while still allowing for attacking opportunities.
- Line Height: I'm playing a relatively high line. Adjust this based on your comfort level and how confident you are in your defense.
Player Roles: The Key to Success
The player roles are where this formation truly shines. I've put my own spin on FC Pirate's setup based on the players I have, but the core principles remain the same.
- Striker: Advanced Forward (Focus: Complete). This allows the striker to be involved all throughout the front line. You can also use a Poacher if you prefer a more central presence.
- CAM (Playmaker): Playmaker (Focus: Balanced). This player is key to linking the midfield and attack.
- Left Mid: Winger (Focus: Attack). This provides width and pace on the left side.
- Right Mid: Inside Forward (Focus: Attack). This creates a dynamic attacking threat, cutting inside and opening up space.
- Defensive Midfielders:
- Right CDM: Holding CDM (Focus: Defend). This is the most crucial player role in this formation. Having a "Holding Plus" or "Holding Plus Plus" player role here is essential for defensive stability.
- Left CDM: Roaming Deep Lying Playmaker. This player helps with the build-up play and offers support in both attack and defense.
- Wing Backs:
- Left Back: Wing Back. Provides defensive solidity and supports the attack.
- Right Back: Attacking Wing Back. This is crucial when you have an inside forward on the same side. The attacking wing back provides width and overlapping runs.
Important Note: This formation is flexible. You can adapt the player roles based on your players. For example, even if a player doesn't have a specific player role, the formation will still work.
Gameplay Mechanics and Examples
This formation is all about balance. You'll have plenty of players in the box during attacks, with the right mid, left mid, playmaker, and striker all contributing. Defensively, the two CDMs provide a solid shield.
- Interceptions and Quick Attacks: The holding CDM (like Di Rice) is crucial for winning the ball back quickly and launching counter-attacks.
- Inside Forward and Attacking Wing Back Synergy: The inside forward (like Coman) cuts inside, creating space for the attacking wing back to make runs down the wing. This creates a dynamic and unpredictable attacking threat.
- Wing Backs in Attack: Even a standard wing back (like Zé Roberto) can contribute significantly to the attack, providing width and crossing opportunities.
- Flexibility: If you're conceding goals on the counter, you can always adjust your attacking wing back to a normal wing back or even a fullback for added defensive security.
This formation is a blast to play, offering a great balance between attack and defense. Remember, you can adapt the player roles to suit your team and playstyle.