Problem with 4-4-2 is its versatility, which is also its weakness: there are many ways to set up a 4-4-2 without really messing it up, but also no real focus in the formation. Do they attack down the flanks? Mixed? Short, mixed, long passes? It also works with both a defensive and offensive tactic. That makes it difficult to find one single good counter formation. Not even counting individual strengths of weaknesses. It's why I always prepare for trouble when even a weak abandoned bot team has 4-4-2.
I prepare my squad in such a way that I can make a narrow diamond, a 4-4-2 myself and a V