Utilizing 11v11 Formations
11 vs. 11 Game
4-4-2
This is the most popular formation in soccer today. The main strength of the 4-4-2 formation is the balance. Offensive attacks are combined with
solid defense. The weakness is the two center players who must be supported by the midfield. The 4-4-2 is probably the first formation you will
encounter as you learn how to play start to play games in a regular soccer team.
3-4-2-1
You will not see many teams playing with the 3-4-2-1 formation in today’s soccer. This formation is great when you want to put pressure on your
opponents’ midfield. However, you will also need to put big effort in defense because your team will only have 3 defenders
4-3-3 Triangular Midfield
The 4-3-3 with a triangular midfield puts a holding central midfielder above the four defenders with two offensive midfielders behind the center
forward and two wingers. The wingers are the workhorses of this formation as it flexes between a 4-3-3 on attack and 4-5-1 on defense.
5-2-2-1
5-5-2-1 is a defensive form of the 3-4-2-1 formation. The formation has 5 defenders, 2 defensive midfielders, 2 offensive midfielders (that may
also act as strikers) and one clean striker.
4-5-1
A formation with big defensive thinking that is usually adapted when you know the opposing team is the big favorite to win the match. It is
criticized by many because it is so boring to watch; you should not expect any Brazil samba soccer when playing in this formation.
3-4-3 Flat
The 3-4-3 is an offensive formation with little defensive thinking. It is pretty unusual because all power is put in the offensive and you will not see
many practicing it today.
4-3-3 Flat
A classic formation that was adapted by the 1970's great teams. It was with the 4-3-3 that West Germany won the World Cup of 1974. This
formation is typical for the total soccer system that was played by The Netherlands and West Germany. The mighty Barcelona of Spain has
adapted this formation successfully in offense combined with good defense work.