Alright, let's dive into the 3-5-2! This formation has taken me ages to perfect, but trust me, it's worth it. This is the custom tactics video you've been waiting for. We're going to break this down into two parts: first, the custom tactics I'm using, which I really, really like, but are tricky to master. Then, we'll check out my Rivals rewards. Let's get into it!
3-5-2 Custom Tactics
First things first, the Tactical Preset is set to Custom.
Build Up Play
Now, for the build-up play, you've got two options.
- Balanced: This is what I use. Players will vary between forward runs and coming short. The team's transition to the in-possession shape will be steady rather than sudden.
- Counter: This is a solid alternative, especially in the 3-5-2. This formation can be tough defensively, so counter might give you a bit more stability. Give it a try and let me know how it works for you!
Defensive Approach
The defensive approach is where things get interesting.
- Aggressive: I'm using aggressive with a 95 line height. This is what I've been using in all my recent videos. It's a bit game-breaking, to be honest. If you're struggling defensively, you could try a 70 or 50 line height, but for me, 95 is the way to go.
Player Roles
This is where the 3-5-2 really shines, and it's crucial to get this right. I'd recommend copying this play-for-play, but if you have any questions, drop them in the comments.
- Left-sided Striker: Advanced Forward and Support. This means they drop a little deeper than when they're on Advanced Forward and Attack, playing a hybrid role between a false nine and an advanced forward. It's very nice, and you'll see me use it a lot in two-striker formations.
- Right-sided Striker: Advanced Forward and Attack. The bread and butter.
- CAM: Playmaker and Balanced. I want the CAM to sit between the CDMs and the strikers, acting as a link man. They'll get on the ball a lot, and you'll be surprised how many goals and assists they get in the 3-5-2.
- Left & Right Midfielders: Wide Midfielder and Defend. This is so, so needed in the 3-5-2. If you don't use this, you might struggle defensively. If you find it too defensive, Wide Midfielder and Balanced is fine too. I like to manually trigger them forward when needed.
- Left & Right CDMs: Deep Line Playmaker and Build Up. They'll help in attack and shield the back line.
- All Three Center Backs: Defender and Defend. Nice and simple.
- Goalkeeper: Goalkeeper and Balanced.
With the left and right midfielders on Wide Midfielder and Defend, it really helps with the defensive structure. You can manually trigger them forward if needed. Very important!
Rivals Rewards
Alright, let's quickly go through my Elite Rivals rewards.
- Pack 1: 86+ Rare Gold Player Pack. Got a Foot Birthday Singo!
- Pack 2: Another Foot Birthday, 90-rated Gassi and 89-rated Odard.
- Player Pick: Got a Black and a few other decent cards.
I'll try to get into Elite for you for next Thursday.
- Pack 3: 84+ Team of the Week Player Pack. Got an 85-rated center back.
- Pack 4: Got Karella.
- Pack 5: Rare Mega Pack. Got a double walkout! Discarded some, kept the 89 and 86-rated players.
- Pack 6: Elite Season Review Pack. Got Ming and Roy Keane.
- Pack 7: 80+ x 50 Pack. Got a Foot Birthday Koto and Rabio.
- Pack 8: 80+ x 75 Pack. Got a Foot Birthday Dembele.
That's it for the rewards!