4-1-3-2 Formation – The Ultimate Coaching Guide
The 4-1-3-2 formation is one of the most popular setups in modern soccer, and for good reason.
With the right players, it offers great balance, exceptional spacing, and endless attacking options.
Success in this shape relies heavily on a dominant midfield anchor and a well-rounded partner.
Without a quality midfield, the center of the park will be targeted, overrun, and exploited.
When in full flow, the 4-1-3-2 offers attacking avenues from every direction, especially if you add attacking fullbacks to the mix.
With two strikers leading the line, this shape guarantees goals.
And with a solid defense, hopefully, it doesn’t concede too many.
In this article, I break down the 4-1-3-2 formation, teach you its strengths and weaknesses, and outline how to implement it effectively.
It won’t take long for you to realize why it’s such a popular shape.
What is a 4-1-3-2 Formation?
Essentially, the 4-1-3-2 is a modified version of a classic 4-4-2 formation, ensuring most players will be familiar with the shape and general structure.
However, rather than playing with two box-to-box center midfielders (CMs), the midfield duties are split between a CDM and a more attacking midfielder.
As we touched on, the CDM has a specialized role in the team, sitting in front of the defense and providing a passing outlet for teammates.
The coach has a little more freedom with the other CM and may opt for a box-to-box style player or an out-and-out attacking midfielder, depending on the circumstances.
Having physically fit players is mandatory to execute this shape since players utilize all the available space on the field.
In possession, wingers and fullbacks hit the sidelines, while the strikers push onto the lowest-dropping defender.
Out of possession, the players must tuck in quickly, creating a more compact unit.
Considering the physical demands, this formation also relies on having a deep squad.
In addition, the 4-1-3-2 formation needs specialist midfielders and a great double-striker partnership – especially in midfield and attack.
Now, let’s take a look at the strengths and weaknesses of the 4-1-3-2 formation.
4-1-3-2 Formation Strengths
#1. Attack-oriented shape
With dual strikers, two wingers, and a roaming CM, this formation is top-heavy.
The shape is particularly dangerous from the wings as attacking fullbacks can support or overlap the wide players to create mismatches.
Opposition center backs can’t risk covering their fullbacks or they’ll leave a striker free in the box.
The two strikers pose a constant threat, occupying the center backs at all times.
#2. Excellent at counterattacking
The spacing and starting position of each player makes this the perfect shape to launch counterattacks.
As soon as the team regains possession, the wingers hit the flanks and the strikers make forward runs. This gives teammates several options to open the defense.
Many teams make sure to leave one striker in line with the last defender for quick over-the-top passes on the counter.
#3. Double strikers
Two strikers are a handful for any defense, especially if they work in tandem.
A popular strategy here is for one striker to come short to receive the pass while the other makes a run behind or pins the center back.
Unless the opponents drag a midfielder to the backline or play with three center backs, the strikers will almost always have a 1v1 with their defender.
#4. Stretches the field
Mastering the space is one of the keys to executing in this setup.
With all players in the right positions, there should be space on the field in virtually every section.
Top players take advantage of large gaps, facilitating consistent chance creation.
#5: Backline shield
The CDM offers a blanketed defensive cover, ensuring the backline is never exposed.
This is essential since center midfield is typically the most vulnerable area.
When defending a lead, the CDM occasionally drops deeper to join the backline, while the other midfielder takes over the CDM role.
#6. Overloads in the final third
The attacking shape helps create a series of overloads when the team attacks as a unit.
Strikers may double up on a center back, fullbacks can join the winger to overload the opposition fullbacks, and the CM is free to support any teammate in attack.
Although the 4-1-3-2 is attack-focused, it offers balance throughout the field.
Sharp transitions help ensure there are no gaping holes in any area.
Moreover, disciplined backtracking provides cover for all positions.
However, a lack of positional awareness can leave significant openings.
4-1-3-2 Formation Weaknesses
#1. Vulnerable to counterattacks
Spacing is both the key and the crux of this formation.
For the most part, individual players are solely responsible for managing their section of the field.
If one player steps out of line, they leave a gap.
This is extremely apparent when fullbacks join the attack and turn the ball over.
#2: Requires technically skilled defenders
Defenders often see a lot of the ball in this formation so they must be capable of retaining possession.
A lack of technical ability in the backline is likely to lead to turnovers in dangerous areas.
This most likely will result in goals against your team.
#3. Squad depth can cause problems
Without sufficient squad depth in the midfield and forward line, this formation isn’t an option.
Your team requires at least two players who can play the CDM role and four attackers to rotate in and out of the two striker positions.
#4. Elite fitness requirements
There’s no avoiding the fitness levels required to perform at the highest level in this formation.
Fullbacks, wingers, and midfielders must cover tremendous ground over the course of a game.
If they become fatigued, the team may be vulnerable to conceding late goals, which can be extremely demoralizing.
#5. Midfielders may get outnumbered
The most effective counter to this shape is to overload the midfield.
Opponents are likely to play with three center midfielders to nullify the influence of the CDM and penetrate from central areas.
#6. Players must know their roles
The coach should make sure all players know their offensive and defensive roles.
The same goes for their duties in transition.
Otherwise, players are likely to stray out of position, leaving opportunities for the opposition.
How to Play the 4-1-3-2 Formation
Good collective performances in the 4-1-3-2 formation essentially come down to individual execution in each role.
A well-drilled team can bear the full fruits of the shape, playing exciting, expansive soccer and striking deadly attacks on the break.
Since certain players are often isolated, strong on-field communication is essential to make sure everyone is on the same page.
Strong leaders greatly benefit the team, especially in pivotal central roles – like CDM, CM, and upfront.
4-1-3-2 Formation Setup
The 4-1-3-2 formation is often seen as very attacking, with two strikers leading the line, backed up by three midfielders.
It’s a well-balanced shape that allows you to attack from multiple angles.
To ensure defensive solidity, the flat-back four is shielded by a CDM.
It’s imperative that they are good at what they do because oftentimes, the defense doesn’t have much alternative cover.
The 4-1-3-2 formation has four core banks of players:
Flat-back four
Center defensive midfielders (CDM)
Midfield trio, with one central midfielder and two wide midfielders (left and right)
Dual strikers
Now, let’s look at how you can put this formation to good use.
Attacking in the 4-1-3-2 Formation
The 4-1-3-2 formation is an exciting prospect for an offensive-minded coach.
It offers attacking options from all positions, either centrally or on the wings, so you can expect plenty of goals.
Versatility is another key benefit, allowing you to adjust the shape seamlessly to a more defensive lineup.
Before implementing this philosophy into your team, consider the following tips for attacking effectively in the shape.
1. Attack as a Unit
The 4-1-3-2 formation offers plenty of numbers to join attacks.
However, without committing players forward, there can be significant gaps between the midfield and strikers.
It’s important for the midfield three to step up during attacks and provide additional options.
The wingers should make runs in behind the defense while the center midfielder must act as an anchor to switch the point of attack.
Occasionally, the center midfielder should also make penetrating runs into the box, looking to get on the end of crosses.
Frank Lampard (Chelsea) was a master at making late runs into the penalty box, resulting in him becoming the highest midfield goalscorer in Premier League history.
2. Vary Attacking Angles
One of the core advantages of the 4-1-3-2 formation is that it allows you to attack and create chances from multiple angles.
Since you have two strikers, one of them can drift wide or drop deep to get involved in the build-up play.
This helps create overloads in these positions, making it easier to progress the ball.
Likewise, the fullbacks should bomb forward where possible, making attacks from wide areas much more fluid.
3. Utilize the Dual Strikers
Most modern formations operate with a lone striker.
While this allows you to have an extra player in midfield, it also makes things easier for the opposition’s defense.
Two strikers are very hard to deal with for center backs, especially in a traditional four-player backline.
The defenders are always occupied and even the slightest of mistakes can punish the team severely.
So, with two strikers at your disposal, be sure to use them.
This means going direct to the forwards with long balls, involving them in build-up play, and looking for them often with crosses from the wings.
While strike partnerships come in all shapes and sizes, it’s often best to have two players with different but complementary skill sets.
Defending in the 4-1-3-2 Formation
The 4-1-3-2 formation can be solid defensively.
However, there’s no getting away from the fact that it can be vulnerable in transition.
This is why your midfielders must be fast, fit, and hard-working.
As soon as the ball is turned over, they must demonstrate discipline by chasing back and setting up in the defensive shape.
To give your side the best chance of success in the 4-1-3-2, here are three core defensive principles.
1. Press from the Front
One of the best things about playing the two strikers is the potential to use a high press.
Simply put, one player can’t effectively press a back four, at least not for an entire game.
A front press is especially valuable in this formation as it helps slow down counterattacks, which is the main threat when you set up in a 4-1-3-2.
As soon as your team loses possession, the strikers should engage the player in possession and look to force them wide.
This buys the rest of the team valuable seconds to regain the shape and set up with defensive solidity.
2. Stay Compact in Transition
Counterattacks are the primary worry when you use a 4-1-3-2 formation as the shape often leaves large spaces in transition.
So, to limit the potential damage of the counterattack, instruct your players to retreat and flood the central areas in transition.
This not only disrupts the counter, but it also forces your opponents wide, giving your team more time to recover.
Regardless of how much space is available on the wing, staying compact in the center makes the defense hard to penetrate.
3. Form a Back Five When Under Pressure
Soccer games are full of ebbs and flows.
If your team is facing sustained pressure or is defending a lead late in a game, consider pulling your CDM into the backline.
The extra defender helps form a low block which is extremely hard to break down.
Naturally, the midfield trio will have to drop deeper to help out with the defensive duties.
Individual Position Responsibilities
Goalkeeper
The type of goalkeeper you need comes down to how your team plays in and out of possession.
Many teams play a high defensive line when they have the ball.
This bridges the gaps between the backline and the midfield.
However, it also leaves a lot of space behind the defense for long switches of play or over-the-top passes.
In these instances, it’s important to have a goalie who isn’t afraid to leave the penalty box and sweep up threaded passes.
In the modern game, having a goalkeeper with good distribution skills is becoming increasingly important for ball retention against a high press.
Center Backs
Since this setup stems from a traditional 4-4-2, the center backs fulfill standard defensive duties.
This means they must keep tabs on strikers, win aerial battles, and cut out central attacks.
In possession, the center backs should be comfortable on the ball and demonstrate competent passing abilities.
Many coaches prioritize playing one left-footed center back and one right-footed center back in the pairing.
This allows each center back to open up toward their dominant side, creating far more passing opportunities.
The center backs work closely with the CDM to mitigate central-based threats.
Fullbacks
The fullback role is straightforward but by no means easy.
From a defensive standpoint, fullbacks are responsible for commanding the wings, marking opposing wingers, and covering the back post when the ball is on the opposite side.
When going forward, they offer support to midfielders, provide passing options, and make overlapping runs.
Fullbacks and wingers must form effective partnerships to ensure attacking and defensive fluidity.
In transition, fullbacks need to be able to recover quickly to restore defensive structure and break up counterattacks.
While this might seem simple, impeccable stamina and speed are a must.
Center Defensive Midfielder (CDM)
All positions are important on the field, the CDM is pivotal to success in a 4-1-3-2 formation.
They have two main responsibilities: provide defensive cover for the backline andmake plays from deep.
The CDM doesn’t have to be the best player on the team by any means.
However, their skill set must be strong enough to perform their key duties well.
The most important characteristics of a well-rounded CDM include:
Strong defensive fundamentals (tackling technique, balance, and control)
Excellent positional awareness
High-level passing and vision
Good on-field communication
Quick decision making
Superior reading of the game and anticipation
Strength and stamina
There is no archetype CDM in the modern game, with so many talented players in different shapes and sizes.
Take Kante and Busquets, for example. They are chalk and cheese in terms of body type and styles of play but both are masterful defensive midfielders.
Center Midfielder
The center midfielder provides the link between the CDM and the attacking players.
These players carry out a lot of the midfield dog work.
They are also responsible for joining attacks and supporting any positions targeted by opponents.
Depending on the personnel at your disposal, you can opt for different types of CM.
In most cases, an industrious all-rounder works best to track back and prevent numerical mismatches against the CDM.
Unfortunately, no matter how good a CDM is, they can’t be in two places at once so you'll need defensive reinforcements.
Right and Left Midfielders (Wingers)
With two strikers ahead of them, the left and right midfielders should be able to create plenty of chances and rack up assists.
Although the majority of their attacks come down the flanks, there is space to exploit centrally.
Some coaches elect to play with inverted wingers.
These players cut inside to shoot, cross, or take on centerbacks directly.
When paired with attacking fullbacks, the combination is lethal as it opens angles to attack from both the wings and central areas.
Wide midfielders also have defensive duties and must track back to help out their fullbacks.
If the center of the field is getting overrun, wingers may need to tuck in when the team is out of possession.
Strikers
Striker partnerships aren’t as common as they once were, meaning many modern centerbacks typically only have one forward to deal with.
Dual strikers create serious problems for defenders as they force both centerbacks to mark both players at all times.
The most effective striker duos work in unison to drag defenders out of position and open up space to run into.
It’s often beneficial to set up with two different style players, such as a pacey runner and a target man.
However, the most important factor is that both strikers click – so a variety of combinations are possible.
Defenders often see a lot of the ball in this formation so they must be capable of retaining possession.
A lack of technical ability in the backline is likely to lead to turnovers in dangerous areas.
This most likely will result in goals against your team.
#3: Squad depth can cause problems
Without sufficient squad depth in the midfield and forward line, this formation isn’t an option.
Your team requires at least two players who can play the CDM role and four attackers to rotate in and out of the two striker positions.
#4: Midfielders may get outnumbered
The most effective counter to this shape is to overload the midfield.
Opponents are likely to play with three center midfielders to nullify the influence of the CDM and penetrate from central areas.
#5: Elite fitness requirements
There’s no avoiding the fitness levels required to perform at the highest level in this formation.
Fullbacks, wingers, and midfielders must cover tremendous ground over the course of a game.
If they become fatigued, the team may be vulnerable to conceding late goals, which can be extremely demoralizing.
#6: Players must know their roles
The coach is responsible for making sure all players know their offensive and defensive roles.
The same goes for their duties in transition.
Otherwise, players are likely to stray out of position, leaving opportunities for the opposition.
Individual Roles and Responsibilities
Good collective performances in the 4-1-3-2 formation essentially come down to individual execution in each role.
A well-drilled team can bear the full fruits of the shape, playing exciting, expansive soccer and striking deadly attacks on the break.
Likewise, players must know their defensive roles to create solidity and minimize opportunities for opposing teams.
Since certain players are often isolated, strong on-field communication is essential to make sure everyone is on the same page.
Strong leaders are hugely beneficial, especially in pivotal central roles – like CDM, CM, and upfront.
Having motivational players in these positions raises the standards of the entire team.
Here’s a look at player roles in further detail:
Role of Goalkeeper
The type of goalkeeper you need comes down to how your team plays in and out of possession.
Many teams play a high defensive line when they have the ball.
This bridges the gaps between the backline and the midfield.
However, this leaves a lot of space behind the defense for long switches of play or over-the-top passes.
In these instances, it’s important to have a goalie who isn’t afraid to leave the penalty box and sweep up threaded passes.
In the modern game, having a goalkeeper with good distribution skills is becoming increasingly important for ball retention against a high press
Role of Fullbacks
The fullback role is straightforward but by no means easy.
From a defensive standpoint, fullbacks are responsible for commanding the wings, marking opposing wingers, and covering the back post when the ball is on the opposite side.
When going forward, they offer support to midfielders, provide passing options, and make overlapping runs.
Fullbacks and wingers must form effective partnerships to ensure attacking and defensive fluidity.
In transition, fullbacks need to be able to recover quickly to restore defensive structure and break up counterattacks.
While all of this might seem simple, impeccable stamina and speed are a must.
Role of Centerbacks
Since this setup stems from a traditional 4-4-2, the centerbacks fulfill standard defensive duties.
Meaning, they must keep tabs on strikers, win the aerial battles, and cut out central attacks.
In possession, the centerbacks should be comfortable on the ball and demonstrate competent passing abilities.
Many coaches prioritize playing one left-footed centerback and one right-footed centerback in the pairing.
This allows each centerback to open up toward their dominant side, creating far more passing opportunities.
Centerbacks work closely with the CDM to mitigate central-based threats.
Role of Center Defensive Midfielder (CDM)
While all positions are important on the field, the CDM is pivotal to success in a 4-1-3-2 formation.
They have two main responsibilities: provide defensive cover for the backline and
make plays from deep.
The CDM doesn’t have to be the best player on the team by any means.
However, their skill set must be strong enough to perform their key duties well.
The most important characteristics of a well-rounded CDM include:
- Strong defensive fundamentals (tackling technique, balance, and control)
- Excellent positional awareness
- High-level passing and vision
- Good on-field communication
- Quick decision making
- Superior reading of the game and anticipation
- Strength and stamina
There is no archetype CDM in the modern game, with so many talented players in different shapes and sizes.
Take Kante and Busquets, for example. They are chalk and cheese in terms of body type and styles of play but both are masterful defensive midfielders.
Role of Center Midfielder
The center midfielder provides the link between the CDM and the attacking players.
These players carry out a lot of the midfield dog work. They are also responsible for joining attacks and supporting any positions targeted by opponents.
Depending on the personnel at your disposal, you can opt for different types of CM.
In most cases, an industrious all-rounder works best to track back and prevent numerical mismatches against the CDM.
Unfortunately, no matter how good a CDM is, they can’t be in two places at once so defensive reinforcements are necessary.
Role of Left and Right Midfielders
With two strikers ahead of them, the left and right midfielders are expected to create plenty of chances and rack up assists.
Although the majority of their attacks come down the flanks, there is space to exploit centrally.
Some coaches elect to play with inverted wingers.
These players cut inside to shoot, cross, or take on centerbacks directly.
When paired with attacking fullbacks, the combination is lethal as it opens angles to attack from both the wings and central areas.
Wide midfielders also have defensive duties and must track back to help out their fullbacks.
If the center of the field is getting overrun, wingers may need to tuck in when the team is out of possession.
Role of Strikers
Striker partnerships aren’t as common as they once were, meaning many modern centerbacks typically only have one forward to deal with.
Dual strikers create serious problems for defenders as they force both centerbacks to mark both players at all times.
The most effective striker duos work in unison to drag defenders out of position and open up space to run into.
It’s often beneficial to set up with two different style players, such as a pacey runner and a target man.
However, the most important factor is that both strikers click – so a variety of combinations are possible.
Variations of the 4-1-3-2 Formation
Versatility in the 4-1-3-2 formation comes in the central areas.
Coaches can experiment with different types of midfielders depending on their strategy.
A box-to-box CM suits a team that wants to bolster its defense, while an attacking midfielder facilitates a gung-ho approach.
Coaches may give their strikers some freedom to roam or may assign specific roles.
This can be in the form of one dropping deep while the other looks to run in behind.
One of the key advantages of this formation is that it can easily convert to another shape, such as a 4-4-2, 4-5-1, or 4-2-3-1.
Doing so throughout a match gives your team alternative looks in both attack and defense.
Conclusion
The 4-1-3-2 formation is a great option for teams that are rich in talent and want to play expansive soccer with plenty of width.
However, its vulnerabilities in central areas and on the break mean player selection is important.
Although it may not be your go-to setup, the 4-1-3-2 can be an effective way to stretch compact teams and beat a low block.