9v9 · 1-4-3-1
4-3-1 formation
The 1-4-3-1 is a nine-a-side shape of one goalkeeper, four defenders, a midfield three and one Striker, so eight outfield players play behind the ball with a lone forward up top. It is a possession shape: the back four build, the midfield three circulate the ball, and the Striker (#9) pins the last defender.
When to use the 4-3-1
Use it when your players are comfortable on the ball and you want to dictate rather than counter. Your Left Back (#3) and Right Back (#2) must be willing to step into midfield, because that is what makes the eight outfield players work across the pitch. The trade-off is that one forward gives you nothing to lose the ball to, so a turnover puts you a man down and the Striker (#9) is left isolated.
Roles in the 4-3-1
| Line | Roles |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Goalkeeper (#1) |
| Defence | Left Back (#3), Left Center Back (#4), Right Center Back (#5), Right Back (#2) |
| Midfield | Left Center Midfielder (#6), Holding Midfielder (#8), Right Center Midfielder (#7) |
| Attack | Striker (#9) |
Strengths
- The back four can step up as a flat line and suffocate the opposition build.
- The midfield three outnumber a pair and can circulate without long clearances.
- The Striker (#9) pins two defenders and forces the opposition to defend deep.
Risks
- One forward gives no pressure on the opposition back line when you lose the ball.
- Both fullbacks stepping inside leaves the wide channels open to quick counters.
- A team that presses your build-up can pin both centre midfielders in their own half.
Key roles to coach
Holding Midfielder (#8)
He sets the tempo and gives you a safe option on the turn, which is what stops the midfield three being pressed into useless sideways passes. When he receives facing forward, the shape can attack.
Left Center Midfielder (#6)
He connects the back four to the front and covers the space in front of the Left Back (#3) when that fullback steps forward. Expect him to be your busiest player on both sides of the ball.
Striker (#9)
He is the highest player and therefore the only reference point for the whole shape. His ability to receive a long pass facing goal decides whether the side can play through a low block.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 1-4-3-1 formation?
It is a nine-a-side structure of one goalkeeper, four defenders, three central midfielders and one Striker. Eight outfield players sit in three lines, with a back four that builds from the back and a lone forward who pins the opposition defenders.
How does the 1-4-3-1 differ from the 1-3-3-2?
The 1-4-3-1 plays a flat back four and leaves only one forward, so you control territory and possession. The 1-3-3-2 plays a back three with two forwards, so you are more direct and better protected when you lose the ball.
What are the fullbacks for in a 1-4-3-1?
They are your extra midfielders. The Left Back (#3) and Right Back (#2) step inside to make a midfield five in possession and drop into a flat line of four when defending. Fullbacks who cannot do both will leave this shape short of a player.