4-4-2 And Its Closest Variations. Why Are They So Strong? -- Some Quick Thoughts

[Croft Original]

I need to reverse a 5-2 away defeat & yes I maybe should have played 4-4-2 but that's history.



I now need to win 3-0 or 4-1 So I am intending to play 4-4-2 & maybe motivate later with arrows. What do you think?

[kebess]

I need to reverse a 5-2 away defeat & yes I maybe should have played 4-4-2 but that's history.



I now need to win 3-0 or 4-1 So I am intending to play 4-4-2 & maybe motivate later with arrows. What do you think?

Good luck in advance, it's not gonna be easy. Who has the better team by the way ?

Here's what I suggest against his 4-1-3-2 :

This :

----x---- (ST)
x-------- (AML) (red/blue x means red/blue arrow)
--x-x-x-x (3MC/MR)
---------
x-x---x-x (4 in the back)

OR this :

----x---- (ST)
--------x (AMR) (red/blue x means red/blue arrow)
x-x-x-x-- (ML/3MC)
---------
x-x---x-x (4 in the back)


The one you chose should depend on your opponents defense quality. If the left side of his defense is much weaker (meaning his DL and left DC are weaker than his DR and right DC), then chose the 2nd formation (the one with AMR). If it's the opposite and his right side is weaker, then chose the 1st formation with AML.

The idea as you've guessed is to pressure/attack his weaker flank and do all your pressing on that side. It's usually a pretty effective approach, and if your AML/AMR is stronger than his DL/DR, then it's even better (especially his Speed). Also, put your strongest MC on the side you're doing the pressing.

If his defense is pretty balanced in quality, then use this :

----x---- (ST)
x-------x (AMR/AML)
--x-x-x-- (3MC)
---------
x-x---x-x (4 in the back)

And attack on both flanks.

The orders should thus be, right or left or both flanks passing, depending on which formation you pick. Start with Normal Mentality. If at 45min, you still have 1 or less goal, but you're leading the pressing and possession, then switch to Attacking.
Go hard tackles, own side pressing, mixed passes, no trap, no counter.

A quick note on why these formations is, they will allow you to dominate the midfield, have a solid defense, and above all a strong attack, since you really need goals ! If you see he's having a bit too much chances to score, you can put a blue arrow on the middle MC, or replace him with a DMC, but don't rush too fast into that decision.
If you didn't need so many goals, you could start right away with a DMC there. So, as soon as you're comfortable and confident of a win, don't hesitate either to make the switch.

There. Good luck, and don't forget to post the results !