there are so many posts already for 4-4-2
so I copy/paste from a previous one


there is no counter for 4-4-2
Play with 4 defenders DR-DC-DC-DL and whatever your players are performing better.
if you have good wingers, play 4-5-1V
if you have 3 good ST, play 4-3-3
if you have good ST & AMC play 4-4-2 ND
if you have good ML & MR play 4-4-1-1 (more attack), 4-1-4-1 (more defense)