How to tactically play a 1-4-2-3-1 formation in/out of possession

 

In-possession responsibilities of players in a 1-4-2-3-1

The single centre-forward is supported by the number 10 to provide the team’s main central attacking threat.

We can instruct the wide attacking midfielders to cut inside, often playing on their unnatural flank – as ‘wrong-footed’ players – to provide a more direct threat on goal.

The nine and and 10 will also rotate and swap positions to drag defenders out of shape and create space in central areas for the wide players to run in behind.

The two players in the double pivot support underneath the ball, and are free to drift wide to help the team switch play.

During transitions, one of the double pivot can push forward to provide extra threat on the counter-attack.

For the most part, though, they remain central and connected to the centre-backs. These two players provide the link between the back four and the attacking unit of four.

With our wide midfielders working infield, the full-backs can overlap to provide width in the attack (above). From here, they can deliver crosses and cut-backs from out wide, and provide an option for a switch of play.

The double pivot gives security behind the ball, allowing both full- backs to push forward simultaneously.

The centre-backs will bring the ball out of defence, passing into midfield or playing direct balls into the attackers. They will rarely dribble into midfield, as there is already a double pivot ahead of them.

 

 

Out-of-possession responsibilities of the players in a 1-4-2-3-1

The back line of four will defend as a compact unit.

The full-backs tuck in, and will defend against wide players in one- on-one situations.

The central defenders will mark the opposition’s strikers.
The double pivot provides protection ahead of the centre-backs, covering the spaces between the lines.

The double pivot also supports behind a higher press, working from side to side to cover the gaps between the three attacking midfielders.

One may jump forward to press alongside the number 10 or a wide midfielder, as well as moving across to support a full-back.

The attacking midfield three and centre-forward will narrow, screening the central spaces when in a mid or low block.

The centre-forward will often instigate a high press, with the number 10 pushing forward to press alongside them as a flat two, or covering beneath and marking the opposition’s pivot.
An in-possession 4-2-3-1 can therefore become an out-of- possession 4-4-2 or 4-4-1-1.

In any of these shapes, the far-side wide midfielder will move narrow to add a body in the centre of the pitch.
This can be in a mid-block, low block or when pressing high.