Thanks HeavansAAA! My opponent added several ringers, including an 8+ star striker. As such, I switched to the formation you suggested, content to play defensive and look for counters.

Four minutes in, my best player and star striker took a knock and had to be replaced. Despite that, I scored a counter goal, one off a corner, and one from a free kick to secure 3 points in my league opener, 3-1.

Appreciate the advice, thanks again!