I've played tophat like Steppenwolf, and also that with AML AMR instead (t-shirt.) But I think 4 4 2 is actually easier than it once was, or maybe I've gotten better?
In my first 20 seasons it was the bane of my existence in T11, but lately I've at least gotten draws, and wins.. with 3W 2DMC 1MC 2W 1, all formations vs. 4 4 2 playing defensively with counters on. But that's how my players like to play. (I say like but mean "the orders & defensive formation in which they get their best ratings/most goals".)