I beat 4-4-2 with 3N-1-4-2 every time. 4-4-2 is not a strong as it used to be, but you have to be flexible in this game and adapt. otherwise you will lose many games.

others here will disagree, but I study the opponent and decide which formation is best to beat him. Others will say go with your stronest formation and let them counter you, but that leaves your fate in the hands of someone else. Start to "play" the game and play different formations. You might find your team plays better.

i am level 5 and lost my first game and am on a 16 game win streak. Just change your outlook and possibly your formation