Formation 1-4-3-2-1 pyramid

The 4-3-2-1 system first defines only the number of field players in each unit. The goalkeeper is initially excluded from this numbering in the exercise title. In this 4-3-2-1 system presented here, the units are arranged in a pyramid shape on the field. The individual units are described in lines. The first line is the goalkeeper. The second line is the back four, the third line the three defensive midfielders, the fourth the two attacking midfielders, 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 and able to intervene on long balls over the top. The field players should use the full width and depth of the entire field when in possession. In this system, play is organised with two centre-backs, two fullbacks in the defensive line, a defensive midfield trio and two attacking midfielders in front, as well as one central striker. With possession, the staggering of three attacking players provides a smaller number of passing options near the danger zone. When the opponent has possession, the team moves as a defensive unit in the 4-3-2-1 line formation within a maximum area of 35 x 35 metres. The defensive formation is characterised by a line positioning of the individual units. That is, the four defenders are in a line, the three defensive midfielders, the two attacking midfielders, and the central striker as well. This creates 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 pressure.