Alright, let's dive into this 4-4-1-1 formation, a real gem in the game, especially after the post-patch adjustments. It's like a 4-4-2, but with a twist – instead of two strikers, we've got one striker and a central attacking midfielder (CAM). It might not be the most popular formation out there, but trust me, it's a solid choice, very effective, and super adaptable. It's also a great option if you've got the right players for those key positions: the CAM, the striker, the left and right midfielders, and so on.
Player Selection: The Foundation of Success
Before we get into the custom tactics, let's talk about the players you need to make this formation shine.
- Defensive Midfielders (CDM): You absolutely need two top-notch defensive midfielders. They're the anchors of your midfield. They need to be solid defensively, because they're not going to be bombing forward. This formation relies on a four-man attack, so your CDMs need to prioritize defense.
- Wingers: Make sure your wingers are good shooters. They're going to get plenty of opportunities to take shots.
- CAM: Your CAM is also going to get a lot of shooting opportunities, so pick a good one.
- Striker: Any type of striker will do. You can go for a big, strong target man or someone with more pace. It's all about personal preference.
Custom Tactics: Fine-Tuning Your Game
Here's the breakdown of the custom tactics I'm using. Remember, this is post-patch, so we've made some adjustments.
- Build Up:
- Build Up Play: Counter. This is key because the CAM and striker are your main goal scorers. Counter enables them to make more runs.
- Defensive Approach: High.
- Offense:
- Width: 70.
- Players in Box: 6.
- Corners: 2.
- Free Kicks: 2.
- Defense:
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Defensive Style: Balanced.
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Width: 70.
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Depth: 70.
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Post-Patch Considerations: If you're struggling to defend against through balls, especially those lobbed or chipped ones, you might want to drop the depth down to 61. I haven't had enough time to fully evaluate it, but 61 might be the sweet spot. If you're still struggling, you can even go down to 50.
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Player Instructions: Orchestrating the Attack
Now, let's get into the player instructions. This is where we really fine-tune how each player contributes to the team.
- Striker: Advanced Forward. This is pretty standard. They're going to be making runs in behind the defense, looking for through balls.
- CAM: Shadow Striker. This is where the magic happens. The CAM will make runs after the striker makes a run, opening up space for them. This creates a dynamic attacking duo.
- Right Mid: Inside Forward, Balanced. This gives you a passing option to come short when you can't find anyone to pass to. It also allows for inside passes and through balls to the striker or CAM.
- Left Mid: Stay Wide, Get in Behind. This is your wide goal threat.
- Defensive Midfielders (CDM):
- CDM 1: Deep Line Playmaker. This is a key role. They'll be more static, moving less than a holding midfielder, but they'll be a better passing option in attack. They'll be in a perfect position to send that through ball.
- CDM 2: Holding. This provides defensive stability.
- Fullbacks: Balanced. This gives you a bit of width in attack. You can also put them on "Stay Back While Attacking" if you prefer.
- Center Backs: Stay Back While Attacking.
- Goalkeeper: Comes for Crosses, Sweeper Keeper.
Key Gameplay Concepts
- Exploiting Runs: The CAM and striker are your main goal threats. Recognize them as such. When the striker makes a run, look for the CAM if you can't get the ball to the striker.
- Midfield Balance: The two CDMs are crucial for controlling the midfield. One on Deep Line Playmaker and one on Holding provides both defensive stability and attacking options.
- Winger Contributions: The wingers provide width and goal-scoring threats.
Final Thoughts
This 4-4-1-1 is a great formation, especially if you're looking for something a little different. Remember, custom tactics aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. Feel free to experiment and adjust things to fit your play style. If you have any questions or want to suggest other formations, let me know.