Formations

There are many different formations and ways to play within those formations

One of the most popular formations is the 4-3-3. Which means there is 4 defenders, 3 central midfielders, and 3 forwards

Pros: the triangle in the midfield can create beautiful connections of soccer

Pro: Creates many 3 lines of defense before getting to the keeper

Pro: Can let the 3 top forwards roam free as there is a lot of space to check into the ball or run in behind

Con: With only 3 midfields can be difficult to defend wide areas

Con: Players can become static with forwards only staying on the offensive half

Con: This formation requires a tremendous amount of physical stamina for midfielders and wingers

Another popular formation is the 4-4-2 with 4 defenders, 2 central midfielders, 2 wide midfielders and 2 central strikers.

Pros: Numbers behind the ball so strong defense every where

Pro: Opposition formation can be spread due to numbers on the wings and up top

Con: Most attacks will go down the wings

Con: Large gap between forwards and midfielders

The 3-5-2 formation is a rare but useful formation when you are losing

Pros: With wing-backs that can play both defense and offense, attacks down the wings can be deadly

Cons: Quick counter attacks can leave your 3 back stranded

There are many more formations that are useful, it all depends on the type of coach you are with the philosophy and players that you have to plug them into the system

4-5-1

4-2-3-1

3-4-3