Alright lads, let's dive into the best 4-4-1-1 custom tactics I've been using in FC25. I'm going to walk you through the setup, show you some gameplay examples, and break down the pros and cons. Let's get it!
Tactics and Build-Up Play
First up, the tactics. For the build-up play, we're going with Balanced. If you're not comfortable with calling players short or sending them on runs, you can definitely use Short Passing. It's super effective, especially if you don't want to overthink things. It's also a great option if you're looking to hold possession late in the game.
For the defensive approach, we're using a 70 depth. I don't recommend going too deep because getting stuck in your box in this game is no fun.
Player Roles
Now, let's talk about player roles.
- Goalkeeper: Sweeper Keeper. You can use whatever you prefer, but I like Sweeper Keeper.
- Center Backs: Leave them on Defender. They'll stay in their area, exactly where you want them. Using Stopper or Ball Playing Defender can make your defense a bit more exposed and impact stamina.
- Fullbacks: Both on Fullback Balanced. This gives them a good balance between supporting the midfield and not overcommitting. They're there as a passing option and to help build out nicely.
- Left Center Mid: Deep Lying Playmaker and Defend. I've experimented with Build Up, but it can leave you exposed on the counter. This is a good balance.
- Right Center Mid: More attacking, but still involved in defense.
- Left Mid & Right Mid: Both on Inside Forward and Balanced. This is the best in the game. Later on, if I'm playing a 4-2-1-3, I might switch to Winger to utilize the wide space.
- CAM: Playmaker and Balanced. Build Up can be a problem because they're never there when you turn the ball over. Balanced gives you the flexibility to go quicker or slower.
- Striker: Advanced Forward and Support. The support function is my favorite, especially with a single striker.
Pros and Cons
Let's break down the good and the bad of this formation.
Pros:
- Wide Options: The left and right mids give you great out-ball options, especially against high-pressing formations like the 4-2-1-3. You can always switch them to Wingers if you need more width.
- Pressing: This formation presses really high.
- Attacking Support: The attacking support is excellent. You can easily transition into a 4-2-3-1 if needed.
- Build-Up Play: This formation is amazing for build-up play. You can frustrate opponents who want to play fast, especially those using the 4-2-1-3.
Cons:
- No CDM: You can get hit hard on the counterattack. If you give the ball away in midfield, you'll suffer.
- Striker Isolation: The striker can get isolated if you move the ball up the pitch too quickly.
- Midfield Gap: The gap between your midfield and defense can be a bit bigger. You'll need to track back with your midfielders.
Player Instructions and Recommendations
- Center Backs: Go for lengthy center backs to help with tracking back.
- Fullbacks: Need to be strong defenders and comfortable on the ball.
- Center Mids: Need to defend and be decent going forward.
- Wingers/Left & Right Mids: Great passing play styles are a must. Having Finesse Shot Plus is going to help you out a lot.
- CAM: Needs to be your best player. Meta passing play styles are key.
- Striker: I recommend someone with blistering pace. Finesse Shot or the new Low Driven play style is a great option.
That's the 4-4-1-1, lads! It's S-tier for me. Let me know in the comments if you use it!