Opinions on 4-2-2-1-1 and 4-2-1-2-1

[Master Tactician]

Yes, I think 4-2-2-1-1 is a little bit more defensive than 4-2-1-2-1 therefore counter attack will work better with that. It depends on the opponent's formation and your team's strenghts.
eg if he has DMCs you may consider 4-2-1-2-1 if he has AMCs and Forwards then 4-2-2-1-1 would be better.
Or if you have strong MR-ML go for 4-2-1-2-1, if you have a strong AMC go for 4-2-2-1-1.
The most important thing to play with counterattacks is to have defensive mindset.

[antoniofs]

That makes sense and it's how I've been using both formations.

When I go 4-2-1-2-1 I tend to be more attacking.

With 4-2-2-1-1, I put Defensive and Counter Attack, zonal marking, with mixed (style and focus) passing. Should I play long balls or change to some focus? Looking at the shape of the formation, it seems better all mixed...

Thanks!!