Defending In A Modern 4–4–2

The Key To Keeping Clean Sheets In The Modern Game

Checkout My Youtube For More Analysis:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5WMpiq1drs3FcNWUrSvMFw

Moving Through The Thirds

High Block

In this third compactness is compromised. Vertical compactness then takes priority because it is the means of which the team in possession progresses through. One solution to try and create vertical compactness and main connections between the defensive lines is by increasing the number of vertical lines.

Teams can do this by having players jump usually in the midfield or between the forwards. The diagrams below depict this in both instances.

4–4–2 → 4–2–2–2

Staggered 4–4–2 midfield shape asymmetry to create access on multiple lines

4–4–2 → 4–1–3–2

The key is to commit the players to the press which will try to overcome the numerical disadvantage. Depending on the emphasis of the team number of players covering the pressing two front lines will vary.