Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): 4-2-3-1 Formation and Positional Functions (2024)

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