Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): 4-2-3-1 Formation and Positional Functions

1-4-2-3-1

Organization:

The 4-2-3-1 includes a keeper, four defenders, two defensive midfield players (double pivot), three attacking midfield players and one striker.

The set up is seen by some in the game as a defensive formation due to the double pivot screening and protecting the back 4. However, during positive transition the system can have a strong attacking focus with 3 attacking midfielders supporting the 1 striker plus the full backs may advance forwards as defensive stability is provided by the centre backs and 2 holding midfielders.

Advantages and limitations of the 4-2-3-1

Advantages:

• Defensively strong and compact in central areas of the pitch with 5 midfielders preventing opposition overloading midfield areas
  
• Creates passing options and "triangles" all over the pitch to retain possession
  
• Allows full backs to provide width to the attack due to defensive stability in central areas
  
• Back 4 can cover width of pitch and shift to defend wide areas
  
• Double pivot provides a defensive screen and marks space occupied by opposition No. 10
  
• Flexibility and attacking options provided by 3 attacking midfielders and 1 striker when positive transition occurs
  

Limitations:

• 3 attacking midfielders need to be switched on when out of possession and undertake their defensive responsibilities
  
• Space can be exploited in wide areas if full backs advance forwards and do not recover
  
• 3 attacking midfielders must support 1 striker during attack to prevent striker being isolated
  
• Players to be tactically astute and aware to take up positions to control space on the pitch to the teams advantage
  

Full-backs

In Possession:

• Move high and wide to receive the ball from the keeper or center-back when playing out from the back
  
• Use a range of passes to help retain possession (into midfield players or forwards or switch play via center backs)
• Recognize opportunities to get forward as the ball travels towards your side of the pitch
• Provide crosses to the forwards from advanced positions

• Be close enough to the oppositions wide player to pressure their first touch.
• Recognize where to show your opponent (inside/outside) in relation to your support/cover
• Try to seize the initiative in 1v1 duels

Defensive Midfielders

In Possession:

• Drop into th e space created by the center-backs splitting, to give the keeper options to play out from the back
  
• Try to receive the ball sideways on, to play forward passes which break lines
• Display a good range of passing, be prepared to initiate switches of play to exploit space in wide areas

• Be prepared to give cover to the full-backs on your side of the pitch when they join the attack
• Provide an additional defensive line and screen passes into the oppositions forwards.
• Block shots, tackle and spoil the oppositions game in midfield areas, in particular at the top of the box

Attacking Mid

In Possession:

• Try to play in-between the oppositions lines of defense (horizontally and vertically)
• Retain the ball and make positive runs and passes around and in-between the oppositions defense
• Be prepared to shoot from distance and support the 9 at all times 

• Be prepared to press or support the press to make play predictable.
• If the opponents play with a playmaker, engage her high up the pitch to force longer clearances
• Try to intercept or tackle in the midfield area to regain possession or make the opposition play backwards