I don't think the 4-4-2 classic has a natural counter because it's so balanced and versatile. One thing, I recommend is looking at the stats of your opponets players and see if you can identify what is the most likely arrows for his players. Whenever I face 4-4-2, I assume they'll attack the flanks and defend the middle but it isn't always the case. For example, in the champions league semifinals I can up against a 4-4-2 classic and noticed his wingers has scored a total of 2 goals all tournament, whereas his midfielders had at least quadrupale that amount, telegraphing the attack was coming through the middle. I decided upon a 4-1-2-1-2 ND and beat him 5:0.