Formation 1-4-1-4-1

The 4-1-4-1 system first defines only the number of field players in each unit. The goalkeeper is initially excluded from this numbering in the exercise title. The individual units are described in lines. The first line is the goalkeeper. The second line formation is the back four, the third the central defensive midfielder, the fourth the midfield line, and the fifth line the lone striker. When the team is in possession, the goalkeeper moves between the goal and the centre of their own half, maintaining a distance of approximately 20 metres to the defensive line, always available as a sort of sweeper. The individual player lines have a distance of 8-12 metres in length to the next line and 7-12 metres to the nearest teammate in width. In this system, play is organised with two centre-backs, two fullbacks in the defensive line, one central defensive midfielder, two midfielders in the half-spaces and two wide midfielders, as well as one striker. When the opponent has possession, the team moves as a defensive unit within a maximum area of 35 x 35 metres. They form four defensive lines. Certain distances must be maintained to ensure optimal defence of the goal. These distances are typically: 7-12 metres in width and 8-15 metres in depth. The distances between individual players and units can vary due to inconsistent game tempo, changing match situations, or being temporarily short-handed. As a team unit, compact, disciplined shifting is the goal, aiming to tighten spaces and thus prevent the opponent from playing through balls while also denying them the ability to start individual actions. Among the most important tactical tackling measures is directing the player on the ball toward the flank and winning possession through double-teaming, as well as directing the opponent's build-up play toward the wide players through shifting, closing passing lanes there so that only a pass into the centre is possible. There, the player is then double-teamed and put under massive pressuren