Soccer Formations

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Formation (association football)From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

In association f ootball, the formation describes how the players in a team are positioned on the pitch.

Different formations can be used depending on whether a team wishes to play more attacking or

defensive football.

Formations are used in both professional and amateur football matches. In amateur matches, however,these tactics ar e sometimes adhered to less strictly due to the lesser significance of the occasion. Skill

and discipline on behalf of the players is also needed to effectively carry out a given formation in

professional football. Formations need to be chosen bearing in mind which players are available. Some

of the formations below were cr eated to address deficits or strengths in different types of players.

Contents

1 Nomenclature

2 Choice and uses of formations

3 Early days

4 Classic for mations

4.1 2– 3–5 ( Pyramid )

4.1.1 Danubian School

4.1.2 Metodo (2–3–2–3)

4.2 WM4.3 WW

4.4 3–3–4

4.5 4–2–4

5 Common modern formations

5.1 4–4–2

5.1.1 4–4–1–1

5.2 4–3–3

5.2.1 4–3–1–2

5.3 4–4– 2 diamond or 4–1–2–1–2

5.3.1 4–1–3–2

5.4 4–3–2–1 (the "Christmas Tree" formation)

5.5 5–3–2

5.5.1 5–3–2 with sweeper or 1–4–3–2

5.6 3–4–3

5.7 3–5–25.8 3–6–1

5.9 4–5–1

5.10 4–2–3–1

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5.11 4–6–0

5.12 5–4–1

5.13 1–6–3

5.14 4–2–2–2 (Magic Rectangle)

5.15 3–3–1–3

5.16 3–3–3–1

5.17 4–2–1–3

6 Incomplete formations

7 See also

8 References

9 External links

NomenclatureFormations are described by categorising the players (not including the goalkeeper) according to their

positioning along (not across) the pitch, with the more defensive players given first. For example, 4–4–2

means four defenders, four midfielders, and two forwards.

Traditionally those within the same category (for example the 4 midfielders in 4–4–2) would generally

play as a fairly flat line across the pitch, with those out wide often playing in a slightly more advanced

position. In many modern formations this is not the case, which has led to some analysts splitting the

categories in two separate bands, leading to four or even five numbered formations. A common example

is 4–2–1–3, where the midfielders are split into two defensive and one offensive player; as such thisformation can be considered a kind of 4–3–3.

The numbering system was not present until the 4–2–4 system was developed in the 1950s.

Choice and uses of formations

The choice of formation is often related to the type of players available to the coach.

Narrow formations. Teams with a surfeit of central midfielders, or teams who attack best throughthe centre, may choose to adopt narrow formations such as the 4–1–2–1–2 or the 4–3–2–1 which

allow teams to field up to four or five central midfielders in the team. Narrow formations however

depend on the full-backs (the flank players in the "4") to provide width and to advance upfield as

frequently as possible to supplement the attack in wide areas.

Wide formations. Teams with a surfeit of forwards and wingers may choose to adopt formations

such as 4–2–3–1, 3–5–2 and 4–3–3, which commit forwards and wingers high up the pitch. Wide

formations allow the attacking team to stretch play and cause the defending team to cover more

ground.

Teams may change formations during a game to aid their cause:

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Change to attacking formations. When chasing a game for a desirable result, teams tend to

sacrifice a defensive player or a midfield player for a forward in order to chase a result. An

example of such a change is a change from 4–5–1 to 4–4–2, 3–5–2 to 3–4–3, or even 5–3–2 to 4–

3–3.

Change to defensive formations. When a team is in the lead, or wishes to protect the scoreline of

a game, the coach may choose to revert to a more defensive structure by removing a forward for a

more defensive player. The extra player in defence or midfield adds solidity by giving the team

more legs to chase opponents and recover possession. An example of such a change is a change

from 4–4–2 to 5–3–2, 3–5–2 to 4–5–1, or even 4–4–2 to 5–4–1.

Formations can be deceptive in analysing a particular team's style of play. For instance, a team that plays

a nominally attacking 4–3–3 formation can quickly revert to a 4–5–1 if a coach instructs two of the three

forwards to track back in midfield.

Early days

In the football matches of the 19th century defensive football was not played, and the line-ups reflected

the all-attacking nature of these games.

In the first international game, Scotland against England on 30 November 1872, England played with

seven or eight forwards in a 1–1–8 or 1–2–7 formation, and Scotland with six, in a 2–2–6 formation. For

England, one player would remain in defence, picking up loose balls, and one or two players would hang

around midfield and kick the ball upfield for the other players to chase. The English style of play at the

time was all about individual excellence and English players were renowned for their dribbling skills.

Players would attempt to take the ball forward as far as possible and only when they could proceed nofurther, would they kick it ahead for someone else to chase. Scotland surprised England by actually

passing the ball among players. The Scottish outfield players were organised into pairs and each player

would always attempt to pass the ball to his assigned partner. Ironically, with so much attention given to

attacking play, the game ended in a 0–0 draw.

Classic formations

2–3–5 ( Pyramid )

The first long-term successful formation was first recorded in 1880.[1] However, in "Association

Football" published by Caxton in 1960, the following appears in Vol II, page 432: "Wrexham ... the first

winner of the Welsh Cup in 1877 ... for the first time certainly in Wales and probably in Britain, a team

played three half-backs and five forwards ..."

The 2–3–5 was originally known as the "Pyramid", with the numerical formation being referenced

retrospectively. By the 1890s, it was the standard formation in England and had spread all over the

world. With some variations, it was used by most top level teams up to the 1940s.

For the first time, a balance between attacking and defending was reached. When defending, the twodefenders (full-backs), would zonally mark the opponent forwards (mainly the central trio), while the

midfielders (halfbacks) would fill the gaps (usually marking the opposing wingers or inside forwards).

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The Pyramid formation

Metodo formation

WM formation

The centre halfback had a key role in both helping to organise the team's

attack and marking the opponent's centre forward, supposedly one of

their most dangerous players.

It was this formation which gave rise to the convention of shirt

numbers.[2]

Danubian School

The Danubian School of football is a modification of the 2–3–5

formation in which the centre forward plays in a more withdrawn

position. As played by the Austrians, Czechs, and Hungarians in the

1920s, it was taken to its peak by the Austrians in the 1930s. It relied on

short-passing and individual skills. This school was heavily influenced

by the likes of Hugo Meisl and Jimmy Hogan, the English coach who

visited Austria at the time.

Metodo (2–3–2–3)

The Metodo was devised by Vittorio Pozzo, coach of the Italian national

team in the 1930s.[3] It was a derivation of the Danubian School. The

system was based on the 2–3–5 formation, Pozzo realised that his half-

backs would need some more support in order to be superior to the

opponents' midfield, so he pulled two of the forwards to just in front of

midfield, creating a 2–3–2–3 formation. This created a stronger defence

than previous systems, as well as allowing effective counter-attacks. The

Italian national team won back-to-back World Cups in 1934 and 1938using this system. It has been argued that Pep Guardiola's Barcelona used

a modern version of this formation.[4] This formation is also similar to

the standard in table football, featuring two defenders, five midfielders

and three strikers (which cannot be altered as the "players" are mounted

on axles).

WM

The WM system was created in the mid-1920s by Herbert Chapman of

Arsenal to counter a change in the offside law in 1925. The change had

reduced the number of opposition players that attackers needed between

themselves and the goal-line from three to two. This led to the

introduction of a centre-back to stop the opposing centre-forward, and

tried to balance defensive and offensive playing. The formation became

so successful that by the late-1930s most English clubs had adopted the

WM. Retrospectively, the WM has either been described as a 3–2–5 or

as a 3–4–3, or more precisely a 3–2–2–3 reflecting the letters which

symbolised it. The gap in the centre of the formation between the two

wing halves and the two inside forwards allowed Arsenal to counter-

attack effectively. The W-M was subsequently adapted by several

English sides, but none could apply it in quite the same way Chapman

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The 4–2–4 formation

had. This was mainly due to the comparative rarity of Alex James in the English game. He was one of

the earliest playmakers in the history of the game, and the hub around which Chapman's Arsenal

revolved.

WW

The WW was a development of the WM created by the Hungarian coach Márton Bukovi who turned the

3–2–5 WM into a 2–3–2–3 by effectively turning the M "upside down".[5] The lack of an effectivecentre-forward in his team necessitated moving this player back to midfield to create a playmaker, with a

midfielder instructed to focus on defence. This created a 2–3–1–4, which morphed into a 2–3–2–3 when

the team lost possession, and was described by some as a kind of genetic link between the WM and the

4–2–4. This formation was successfully used by fellow countryman Gusztáv Sebes in the Hungarian

national team of the early 1950s.

3–3–4

The 3–3–4 formation was similar to the WW, with the notable exception of having an inside-forward (as

opposed to centre-forward) deployed as a midfield schemer alongside the two wing-halves. This

formation would be commonplace during the 1950s and early 1960s. One of the best exponents of the

system was the Tottenham Hotspur double-winning side of 1961, which deployed a midfield of Danny

Blanchflower, John White and Dave Mackay. FC Porto won the 2005–06 Portuguese national

championship using this unusual formation under manager Co Adriaanse.

4–2–4

The 4–2–4 formation attempts to combine a strong attack with a strong

defence, and was conceived as a reaction to WM's stiffness. It could also be considered a further development of the WW. The 4–2–4 was the first

formation to be described using numbers.

While the initial developments leading to the 4–2–4 were devised by

Márton Bukovi, the credit for creating the 4–2–4 lies with two different

people: Flávio Costa, the Brazilian national coach in the early 1950s, as

well as another Hungarian Béla Guttman. These tactics seemed to be

developed independently, with the Brazilians discussing these ideas

while the Hungarians seemed to be putting them into motion.[5][6][7] The

fully developed 4–2–4 was only "perfected" in Brazil, however, in thelate 1950s.

Costa published his ideas, the "diagonal system", in the Brazilian

newspaper O Cruzeiro, using schematics as the ones used here and, for

the first time ever, the formation description by numbers as used in this article. [6] The "diagonal system"

was another precursor of the 4–2–4 and was created to spur improvisation in players.

Guttmann himself moved to Brazil later in the 1950s to help develop these tactical ideas using the

experience of Hungarian coaches.

The 4–2–4 formation made use of the players' increasing levels of skill and fitness, aiming to effectively

use six defenders and six forwards, with the midfielders performing both tasks. The fourth defender

increased the number of defensive players but mostly allowed them to be closer together, thus enabling

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Common modern formations

4–4–2 formation

4–3–3 formation

4–4–2 diamond formation

4–4–1–1 formation


5–3–2 formation

effective cooperation among them, the point being that a stronger defence would allow an even stronger

attack.

The relatively empty midfield relied on defenders that should now be able not only to steal the ball, but

also hold it, pass it or even run with it and start an attack. So this formation required that all players,

including defenders, are somehow skilful and with initiative, making it a perfect fit for the Brazilian

player's mind. The 4–2–4 needed a high level of tactical awareness, as having only two midfielders

could lead to defensive problems. The system was also fluid enough to allow the formation to change

throughout play.

4–2–4 was first used with success at club level in Brazil by Palmeiras and Santos, and was used by

Brazil in their wins at 1958 World Cup and 1970 World Cup, both featuring Pelé, and Mário Zagallo,

the latter of which played in 1958 and coached in 1970. The formation was quickly adopted throughout

the world after the Brazilian success.

Common modern formations

The following formations are used in modernfootball. The formations are flexible allowing

tailoring to the needs of a team, as well as to the

players available. Variations of any given

formation include changes in positioning of

players, as well as replacement of a traditional

defender by a sweeper.

4–4–2

This formation was the most common in

football in the 1990s and early 2000s, so well

known that it inspired the title of the magazine

FourFourTwo. The midfielders are required to

work hard to support both the defence and the

attack: typically one of the central midfielders is

expected to go upfield as often as possible to

support the forward pair, while the other will

play a "holding role", shielding the defence; the

two wide midfield players must move up theflanks to the goal line in attacks and yet also

protect the full-backs.[8][9] On the European

level, the major example of a team using a 4–4–

2 formation was Milan, trained by Arrigo

Sacchi and later Fabio Capello, which won

three European Cups, two Intercontinental

Cups, and three UEFA Super Cups between

1988 and 1995.[10] Under Milan's example, it

became very popular in Italy in the late 1980s

and early 1990s.

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5–3–2 Sweeper formation

3–4–3 formation

3–5–2 formation

3–6–1 formation

4–5–1 formation


5–4–1 formation

More recently, commentators have noted that at

the highest level, the 4–4–2 is being phased out

in favour of formations such as the 4–2–3–1.[11]

In 2010, none of the winners of the Spanish,

English and Italian leagues, nor the Champions

League, relied on the 4–4–2. Following

England's elimination at the 2010 World Cup by

a 4–2–3–1 Germany side, England NationalTeam coach Fabio Capello (who was notably

successful with the 4–4–2 at Milan in the

1990s) was criticised for playing an

"increasingly outdated" 4–4–2 formation.[12]

4–4–1–1

A variation of 4–4–2 with one of the strikers

playing "in the hole", or as a "second striker",

slightly behind their partner.[13] The second

striker is generally a more creative player, the

playmaker, who can drop into midfield to pick

up the ball before running with it or passing to

team-mates.[13] Interpretations of 4–4–1–1 can

be slightly muddled, as some might say that the

extent to which a forward has dropped off and

separated himself from the other can be

debated. The system was most prominently used

during the 2009–10 season by Fulham F.C, withmidfielder Zoltan Gera playing behind forward

Bobby Zamora as they upset many teams across

Europe on their way to the 2010 UEFA Europa

League Final.

4–3–3

The 4–3–3 was a development of the 4–2–4,

and was played by the Brazilian national team

in the 1962 World Cup. The extra player in

midfield allows a stronger defence, and the

midfield could be staggered for different effects.

The three midfielders normally play closely

together to protect the defence, and move

laterally across the field as a coordinated unit.

The three forwards split across the field to

spread the attack, and may be expected to mark the opposition full-backs as opposed to doubling back to

assist their own full-backs, as do the wide midfielders in a 4–4–2. When used from the start of a game,

this formation is widely regarded as encouraging expansive play, and should not be confused with the practice of modifying a 4–4–2 by bringing on an extra forward to replace a midfield player when behind

in the latter stages of a game. This formation is suited for a short passing game and useful for ball

retention.

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A staggered 4–3–3 involving a defensive midfielder (usually numbered four or six) and two attacking

midfielders (numbered eight and ten) was commonplace in Italy, Argentina, and Uruguay during the

1960s and 1970s. The Italian variety of 4–3–3 was simply a modification of WM, by converting one of

the two wing-halves to a libero (sweeper), whereas the Argentine and Uruguayan formations were

derived from 2–3–5 and retained the notional attacking centre-half. The national team that made this

famous was the Dutch team of the 1974 and 1978 World Cups, even though the team won neither.

In club football, the team that brought this formation to the forefront was the famous Ajax team of the

early 1970s, which won three European Cups with Johan Cruyff, and Zdenek Zeman with Foggia in

Italy during the late 1980s, where he completely revitalised the movement supporting this formation. It

was also the formation with which Norwegian manager Nils Arne Eggen won 15 Norwegian league

titles.

Most teams using this formation now use the specialist defensive midfielder. Recent famous examples

include the FC Porto and Chelsea teams coached by Jose Mourinho, as well as the Barcelona team under

Pep Guardiola. Jose Mourinho has also been credited with bringing this formation to England in his first

stint with Chelsea.

4–3–1–2

A variation of the 4–3–3 wherein a striker gives way to a central attacking midfielder. This formation

was adopted by Massimiliano Allegri for the 2010–11 Serie A season for Milan. The formation focuses

on the attacking midfielder moving play through the centre with the strikers on either side. It is a much

narrower setup in comparison to the 4–3–3 and is usually dependent on the "1" to create chances.

4–4–2 diamond or 4–1–2–1–2

The 4–4–2 diamond (also described as 4–1–2–1–2) staggers the midfield. The width in the team has tocome from the full-backs pushing forward. The defensive midfielder is sometimes used as a deep lying

playmaker. Its most famous example was Carlo Ancelotti's Milan, which won the 2003 UEFA

Champions League Final and made Milan runners-up in 2005. Milan was obliged to adopt this formation

so as to field talented central midfielder Andrea Pirlo, in a period when the position of offensive

midfielder was occupied by Rui Costa and later Kaká.[14] This tactic was gradually abandoned by Milan

after Andriy Shevchenko's departure in 2006, progressively adopting a "Christmas Tree" formation.

4–1–3–2

The 4–1–3–2 is a variation of the 4–1–2–1–2 and features a strong and talented defensive centre

midfielder. This allows the remaining three midfielders to play farther forward and more aggressively,

and also allows them to pass back to their defensive mid when setting up a play or recovering from a

counterattack. The 4–1–3–2 gives a strong presence in the forward middle of the pitch and is considered

to be an attacking formation. Opposing teams with fast wingers and strong passing abilities can try to

overwhelm the 4–1–3–2 with fast attacks on the wings of the pitch before the three offensive midfielders

can fall back to help their defensive line. Valeriy Lobanovskiy is one of the most famous exponents of

the formation, using it with Dinamo Kyiv, winning three European trophies in the process. Another

example of the 4–1–3–2 in use was the English national team at the 1966 FIFA World Cup, managed by

Alf Ramsey.

4–3–2–1 (the "Christmas Tree" formation)

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The 4–3–2–1, commonly described as the "Christmas Tree" formation, has another forward brought on

for a midfielder to play "in the hole", so leaving two forwards slightly behind the most forward striker.

Terry Venables and Christian Gross used this formation during their time in charge of Tottenham

Hotspur. Since then the formation has lost its popularity in England. It is however most known for being

the formation Carlo Ancelotti utilised on and off during his time as a coach of Milan.

In this approach, the middle of the three central midfielders act as a playmaker while one of the

attacking midfielders plays in a free role. However, it is also common for the three midfielders to be

energetic shuttlers, providing for the individual talent of the two attacking midfielders ahead.The

"Christmas Tree" formation is considered a relatively narrow formation and depends on full-backs to

provide presence in wide areas. The formation is also relatively fluid. During open play, one of the side

central midfielders may drift to the flank to add additional presence.

5–3–2

This formation has three central defenders (possibly with one acting as a sweeper.) This system is

heavily reliant on the wing-backs providing width for the team. The two wide full-backs act as wing- backs. It is their job to work their flank along the full length of the pitch, supporting both the defence

and the attack.[15]

5–3–2 with sweeper or 1–4–3–2

A variant of the 5–3–2, this involves a more withdrawn sweeper, who may join the midfield, and more

advanced full-backs.

3–4–3

Using a 3–4–3, the midfielders are expected to split their time between attacking and defending. Having

only three dedicated defenders means that if the opposing team breaks through the midfield, they will

have a greater chance to score than with a more conventional defensive configuration, such as 4–5–1 or

4–4–2. However, the three forwards allow for a greater concentration on attack. This formation is used

by more offensive-minded teams. The formation was famously used by Liverpool under Rafael Benitez

during the second half of the 2005 UEFA Champions League Final to come back from a three-goal

deficit.

3–5–2

This formation is similar to 5–3–2 except that the two wingmen are oriented more towards the attack.

Because of this, the central midfielder tends to remain further back in order to help prevent counter-

attacks. It differs from the classical 3–5–2 of the WW by having a non-staggered midfield. It was used

for the first time at international level by the Argentine coach Carlos Bilardo. [16] Terry Venables notably

used this formation (along with a 4–1–2–1–2) during England's campaign in Euro 96, with Gareth

Southgate or Paul Ince acting as defensive midfielder. Many teams also use a central attacking

midfielder and two defensive midfielders, so the midfielders form a W formation.

Sebastião Lazaroni used this formation for Brazil during the unsuccessful participation to the 1990 FIFAWorld Cup.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1990_FIFA_World_Cuphttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gareth_Southgatehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005_UEFA_Champions_League_Finalhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A.C._Milanhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Football_(soccer)_positions#Sweeper.2FLibero_.28SW.29http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terry_Venableshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlo_Ancelottihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liverpool_F.C.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_Grosshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlos_Bilardohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_1996http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terry_Venableshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sebasti%C3%A3o_Lazaronihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tottenham_Hotspurhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attacking_midfielderhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_Treehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rafael_Benitezhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Incehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Association_football_positions#Sweeper


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Although it had fallen out of favour with most coaches who now prefer four at the back, it has recently

had a renaissance in both club and international football. At club level, it has been effectively used by

Juventus coach Antonio Conte, under whom Juventus won three back-to-back scudetti between 2012

and 2014, or more recently by Louis Van Gaal at Manchester United.[17]

At international level, it has been used as an alternative formation on two notable occasions to nullify the

challenge of possession football used by the Spanish national side. Cesare Prandelli used it for the Italy's

1–1 draw with Spain in the group stage of UEFA Euro 2012, with some commentators seeing DanieleDe Rossi as a sweeper.[18] The Netherlands used it to greater effect against Spain during the group stage

of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, completing a 5-1 win. This was successful in minimizing the Dutch

weaknesses - inexperience in defence - and their strengths - world-class forwards in Robin van Persie

and Arjen Robben. [19]

3–6–1

This uncommon modern formation focuses on ball possession in the midfield. In fact, it is very rare to

see it as an initial formation, as it is more useful for maintaining a lead or tie score. Its more common

variants are 3–4–2–1 or 3–4–3 diamond, which use two wingbacks. The lone forward must be tactically

gifted, not only because he or she focuses on scoring but also on playing the ball back towards the own

goal to assist with back passes to his teammates. Once the team is leading the game, there is an even

stronger tactical focus on ball control, short passes and running down the clock. On the other hand, when

the team is losing, at least one of the playmakers will more frequently play in the edge of the area to add

depth to the attack. Guus Hiddink is one of the few coaches who has used this formation, recently for

Australia during the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

4–5–1

4–5–1 is a defensive formation; however, if the two midfield wingers play a more attacking role, it can

be likened to 4–3–3. The formation can be used to grind out 0–0 draws or preserve a lead, as the packing

of the centre midfield makes it difficult for the opposition to build up play. [20] Because of the

"closeness" of the midfield, the opposing team's forwards will often be starved of possession. Due to the

lone striker, however, the centre of the midfield does have the responsibility of pushing forward as well.

The defensive midfielder will often control the pace of the game.[21]

4–2–3–1

This formation is widely used by Spanish, French and German sides. While it seems defensive to the

eye, it is quite a flexible formation, as both the wide players and the full-backs join the attack. In

defense, this formation is similar to either the 4–5–1 or 4–4–1–1. It is used to maintain possession of the

ball and stopping opponent attacks by controlling the midfield area of the field. The lone striker may be

very tall and strong to hold the ball up as his midfielders and full-backs join him in attack. The striker

could also be very fast. In these cases, the opponent's defense will be forced to fall back early, thereby

leaving space for the offensive central midfielder. This formation is used especially when a playmaker is

to be highlighted. The variations of personnel used on the flanks in this set-up include using traditional

wingers, using inverted wingers or simply using wide midfielders

At the international level, this formation is used by the French national team, the Dutch national team

and the German national team in an asymmetric shape, and often with strikers as wide midfielders or

inverted wingers. The formation is also currently used by Brazil as an alternative to the 4–2–4 formation

of the late 1950s to 1970. Implemented similarly to how original 4–2–4 was used back then, use of this

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonio_Contehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manchester_United_F.C.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scudettohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia_national_soccer_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louis_Van_Gaalhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweeper_(football)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winger_(sport)#Football_.28soccer.29http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juventus_F.C.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netherlands_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arjen_Robbenhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spain_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netherlands_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italy_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2006_FIFA_World_Cuphttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniele_De_Rossihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2014_FIFA_World_Cuphttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cesare_Prandellihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robin_van_Persiehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guus_Hiddink


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formation in this manner is very offensive, creating a six-man attack and a six-man defence tactical

layout. The front four attackers are arranged as a pair of wide forwards and a playmaker forward who

play in support of a lone striker. Mário Zagallo also considers the Brazil 1970 football team he coached

as pioneers of 4–2–3–1.[22]

In recent years with full-backs having ever more increasing attacking roles, the wide players (be they

deep lying forwards, inverted wingers, attacking wide midfielders) have been tasked with the defensive

responsibility to track and pin down the opposition full-backs. A good example of an attacking full-back is Branislav Ivanovic, playing for Chelsea in a 4–2–3–1 formation.[23]

This formation has been very frequently used by managers all over the world in the modern game. One

particularly effective use of it was Liverpool F.C. under Rafael Benitez, who deployed Javier

Mascherano, Xabi Alonso and Steven Gerrard in central midfield, with Gerrard acting in a more

advanced role in order to link up with Fernando Torres, who acted as the central striker. Another notable

example at club level is Bayern Munich under Jupp Heynckes.

4–6–0

A highly unconventional formation, the 4–6–0 is an evolution of the 4–2–3–1 in which the centre

forward is exchanged for a player who normally plays as a trequartista (that is, in the 'hole'). Suggested

as a possible formation for the future of football,[24] the formation sacrifices an out-and-out striker for

the tactical advantage of a mobile front four attacking from a position that the opposition defenders

cannot mark without being pulled out of position.[25] Because of the intelligence and pace required by

the front four attackers to create and attack any space left by the opposition defenders, however, the

formation requires a very skilful and well-drilled front four. Due to these demanding requirements from

the attackers, and the novelty of playing without a proper goalscorer, the formation has been adopted by

very few teams, and rarely consistently. As with the development of many formations, the origins andoriginators are uncertain, but arguably the first reference to a professional team adopting a similar

formation is Anghel Iordănescu's Romania in the 1994 World Cup Round of 16, when Romania won 3–

2 against Argentina.[26][27] The first team to adopt the formation systematically was Luciano Spalletti's

Roma side during the 2005–06 Serie A season, mostly out of necessity as his "strikerless" formation,[28]

and then notably by Alex Ferguson's Manchester United side that won the Premier League and

Champions League in 2007–08.[29] The formation was unsuccessfully used by Craig Levein's Scotland

vs Czech Republic to widespread condemnation.[30] At UEFA Euro 2012, Spain coach Vicente del

Bosque used the 4–6–0 for his side's 1–1 group stage draw versus Italy and their 4–0 win versus Italy in

the final of the tournament.[31]

5–4–1

This is a particularly defensive formation, with an isolated forward and a packed defence. Again,

however, a couple of attacking full-backs can make this formation resemble something like a 3–6–1.

One of the most famous cases of its use is the Greek national team.

1–6–3

The 1–6–3 formation was first utilised by Japan at the behest of General Yoshijirō Umezu in 1936.

Famously, Japan defeated the heavily favoured Swedish team 3–2 at the 1936 Olympics with the

unorthodox 1–6–3 formation, before going down 0–8 to Italy. The formation was dubbed the

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japan_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweden_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007%E2%80%9308_Manchester_United_F.C._seasonhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Playmakerhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Branislav_Ivanovichttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoshijir%C5%8D_Umezuhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steven_Gerrardhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luciano_Spallettihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005%E2%80%9306_Serie_Ahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italy_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bayern_Munichhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Premier_Leaguehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greece_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Fergusonhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spain_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chelsea_F.C.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defender_(association_football)#Full-backhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Javier_Mascheranohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vicente_del_Bosquehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liverpool_F.C.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Champions_Leaguehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anghel_Iord%C4%83nescuhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A.S._Romahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupp_Heynckeshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italy_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craig_Leveinhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%A1rio_Zagallohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rafael_Benitezhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romania_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xabi_Alonsohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fernando_Torreshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scotland_national_football_team


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"kamikaze" formation sometime in the 1960s when former US national team player Walter Bahr used it

for a limited number of games as coach of the Philadelphia Spartans to garner greater media and fan

attention for the struggling franchise.[32]

4–2–2–2 (Magic Rectangle)

Often referred to as the "Magic Rectangle" or "Magic Square",[33] this formation was used by France

under Michel Hidalgo at the 1982 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Euro 1984, and later by Henri Michel

at the 1986 FIFA World Cup[34] and a whole generation, for Brazil with Telê Santana, Carlos Alberto

Parreira and Vanderlei Luxemburgo, by Arturo Salah and Manuel Pellegrini in Chile and Francisco

Maturana in Colombia.[35] The "Magic Rectangle" is formed by combining two box-to-box midfielders

with two deep-lying ("hanging") forwards across the midfield. This provides a balance in the distribution

of possible moves and adds a dynamic quality to midfield play.

This formation was used by former Real Madrid manager Manuel Pellegrini and met with considerable

praise.[36] Pellegrini also used this formation whilst at Villarreal and Málaga. The formation is closely

related to a 4–2–4 previously used by Fernando Riera, Pellegrini's mentor,[37] and that can be traced back to Chile in 1962 who (may have) adopted it from the Frenchman Albert Batteux at the Stade de

Reims of 50s.

Also before in the Real Madrid, this formation was most infamously used by Wanderley Luxemburgo

during his failed stint at Real Madrid in the latter part of the 2004–05 season and throughout the 2005–

06 season. This formation has been described as being "deeply flawed"[38] and "suicidal".[39]

Luxemburgo is not the only one to use this although it had been used earlier by Brazil in the early

1980s.[40][41] At first, Telê Santana, then Carlos Alberto Parreira and Vanderlei Luxemburgo proposed

basing the "Magic Rectangle" on the work of the wing backs. The rectangle becomes a 3–4–3 on theattack because one of the wing backs moves downfield.[42]

In another sense, the Colombian 4–2–2–2 is closely related to the 4–4–2 diamond of Brazil, style

different from the French-Chilean trend and is based on the complementation of a box-to box with 10

classic. Emphasises the triangulation, but especially in the surprise of attack. The 4–2–2–2 formation

consists of the standard defensive four (right back, two centre backs, and left back), with two centre

midfielders, two support strikers, and two out and out strikers.[43] Similar to the 4–6–0, the formation

requires a particularly alert and mobile front four to work successfully. The formation has also been used

on occasion by the Brazilian national team,[41][44][45] notably in the 1998 FIFA World Cup final.[46]

3–3–1–3

The 3–3–1–3 was formed of a modification to the Dutch 4–3–3 system Ajax had developed. Coaches

like Louis van Gaal and Johan Cruyff brought it to even further attacking extremes and the system

eventually found its way to FC Barcelona, where players such as Andrés Iniesta and Xavi were reared

into 3–3–1–3's philosophy. It demands intense pressing high up the pitch especially from the forwards,

and also an extremely high defensive line, basically playing the whole game inside the opponents' half. It

requires incredible technical precision and rapid ball circulation since one slip or dispossession can

result in a vulnerable counter-attack situation. Cruyff's variant relied on a flatter and wider midfield, butvan Gaal used an offensive midfielder and midfield diamond to link up with the front three more

effectively. Marcelo Bielsa has used the system with some success with Argentina's and Chile's national

teams and is currently one of the few high-profile managers to use the system in competition today.

Diego Simeone had also tried it occasionally at River Plate.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Club_Atl%C3%A9tico_River_Platehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcelo_Bielsahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albert_Batteuxhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%A1laga_CFhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamikazehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johan_Cruyffhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francisco_Maturanahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_men%27s_national_soccer_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tel%C3%AA_Santanahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xavihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_1984http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FC_Barcelonahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louis_van_Gaalhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vanderlei_Luxemburgohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arturo_Salahhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Spartanshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Bahrhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michel_Hidalgohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diego_Simeonehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chile_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andr%C3%A9s_Iniestahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998_FIFA_World_Cuphttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1986_FIFA_World_Cuphttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlos_Alberto_Parreirahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villarreal_CFhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentina_national_football_teamhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henri_Michelhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1982_FIFA_World_Cuphttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manuel_Pellegrinihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998_FIFA_World_Cup_Final


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3–3–3–1

The 3–3–3–1 system is a very attacking formation and its compact nature is ideally suited for midfield

domination and ball possession. It means a coach can field more attacking players and add extra strength

through the spine of the team. The attacking three are usually two wing-backs or wingers with the

central player of the three occupying a central attacking midfield (CAM) or second striker role behind

the centre-forward. The midfield three consists of two centre midfielders (CM) ahead of one central

defensive midfielder (CDM) or alternatively one central midfielder and two defensive midfielders. Thedefensive three can consist of three centre-backs (CB) or one CB with a full-back either side.

The 3–3–3–1 formation was used by Marcelo Bielsa's Chile in the 2010 World Cup, with three centre-

backs paired with two wing-backs and a holding player, although a variation is the practical hourglass,

using three wide players, a narrow three, a wide three and a centre-forward.[47]

4–2–1–3

The somewhat unconventional 4–2–1–3 formation was developed by José Mourinho during his time at

Internazionale including in the 2010 UEFA Champions League Final. By using captain Javier Zanettiand Esteban Cambiasso in holding midfield positions, he was able to push more players to attack.

Wesley Sneijder filled the attacking midfield role and the front three operated as three strikers, rather

than having a striker and one player on each wing. Using this formation, Mourinho won The Treble with

Inter in only his second season in charge of the club.

As the system becomes more developed and flexible, small groups can be identified to work together in

more efficient ways by giving them more specific and different roles within the same lines, and numbers

like 4–2–1–3, 4–1–2–3 and even 4–2–2–2 occur.

Many of the current systems have three different formations in each third, defending, middle, andattacking. The goal is to outnumber the other team in all parts of the field but to not completely wear out

all the players on the team using it before the full ninety minutes are up. So the one single number is

confusing as it may not actually look like a 4–2–1–3 when a team is defending or trying to gain

possession. In a positive attack it may look exactly like a 4–2–1–3.

Incomplete formations

When a player is sent off (i.e. after being shown a red card) or leaves the field due to an injury or other

reason with no ability to be replaced with a substitute teams generally fall back to defensive formationssuch as 4–4–1 or 5–3–1. Only when facing a negative result will a team with ten players play in a risky

attacking formation such as 4–3–2 or even 4–2–3.

See also

Association football tactics and skills

Association football positions

Catenaccio

Total Football

References

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attacking_midfieldhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catenacciohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Javier_Zanettihttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Total_Footballhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Association_football_tactics_and_skillshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treble_(association_football)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Centre-backhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcelo_Bielsahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Association_football_positionshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9_Mourinhohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misconduct_(association_football)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F.C._Internazionale_Milanohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2010_UEFA_Champions_League_Finalhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wesley_Sneijderhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Esteban_Cambiassohttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forward_(association_football)#Centre-forwardhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defender_(association_football)#Full-backhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midfielder


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25. ^ "Gramsci's Kingdom:Football, Politics, The World: July 2008"

(http://gramsciskingdom.blogspot.com/2008_07_01_archive.html). 10 July 2008. Retrieved 11 July 2008.

26. ^ Smyth, Rob (22 January 2010). "The Joy of Six: Counter-attacking goals"

(http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/blog/2010/jan/22/joy-of-six-counterattacking-goals). The Guardian

(London). Retrieved 25 March 2010.

27. ^ "ROMANIA — ARGENTINA 3–2 Match report"

(http://www.planetworldcup.com/CUPS/1994/r2_rom_v_arg.html).

28. ^ Moore, Malcolm (5 June 2008). "Chelsea and Roman Abramovich may be drawn to Luciano Spalletti's

style at Roma" (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?xml=/sport/2008/06/05/sfnche105.xml). The

Daily Telegraph (London). Retrieved 11 July 2008.

29. ^ Wilson, Jonathan (2008). Inverting the Pyramid . London: Orion Books. pp. 350–2. ISBN 978-0-7528-

8995-5.

30. ^ Grahame, Ewing (11 October 2010). "Scotland v Spain: Craig Levein defends his strikerless 4–6–0formation" (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/scotland/8053954/Scotland-v-Spain-Craig-

Levein-defends-his-strikerless-4-6-0-formation.html). The Daily Telegraph (London).

31. ^ "Euro 2012: 7 Strategies to Counter Spain's 4–6–0 Formation" (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1216807-

euro-2012-7-strategies-to-counter-spains-4-6-0-formation). Bleacher Report .

32. ^ Radnedge, Keir; Robson, Bobby. [2007] The Complete Encyclopedia of Soccer.

33. ^ Wilson, Jonathan (1 July 2010). "Brazil vs Netherlands quarterfinal matchup is potentially a classic"

(http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/soccer/world-cup-

2010/writers/jonathan_wilson/06/30/brazil.netherlands.preview/index.html). si.com. Retrieved 21 September

2012.

34. ^ "The Magic – Recreating Le Carré Magique – FM2011 Story Forum – Neoseeker Forums"

(http://www.neoseeker.com/forums/52007/t1688018-magic-recreating-le-carr-magique/). Neoseeker.com.

Retrieved 2012-11-07.

http://www.futbolgol.es/futbol-gol/sistemas-de-juego-capitulo-i-4-4-2.htmlhttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/aug/29/louis-van-gaal-manchester-united-352-tacticshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonathan_Wilson_(writer)http://worldsoccer.about.com/od/skillsandtactics/tp/formations.htmhttp://gramsciskingdom.blogspot.com/2008_07_01_archive.htmlhttp://www.caughtoffside.com/2014/08/18/video-chelsea-defender-branislav-ivanovic-nets-third-goal-against-burnley/http://www.neoseeker.com/forums/52007/t1688018-magic-recreating-le-carr-magique/http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Standard_Book_Numberhttp://www.planetworldcup.com/CUPS/1994/r2_rom_v_arg.htmlhttp://www.benefoot.net/tactical-analysis-how-the-netherlands-demolished-spain/http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/blog/2010/jan/22/joy-of-six-counterattacking-goalshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Si.comhttp://www.futbolgol.es/futbol-gol/sistemas-de-juego-capitulo-i-4-4-2.htmlhttp://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/soccer/world-cup-2010/writers/jonathan_wilson/06/30/brazil.netherlands.preview/index.htmlhttp://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?xml=/sport/2008/06/05/sfnche105.xmlhttp://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/aug/29/louis-van-gaal-manchester-united-352-tacticshttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/1216807-euro-2012-7-strategies-to-counter-spains-4-6-0-formationhttp://www.espnstar.com/editorial/news/detail/item813761/Spain-too-smart-for-their-own-good-/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/scotland/8053954/Scotland-v-Spain-Craig-Levein-defends-his-strikerless-4-6-0-formation.htmlhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7528-8995-5http://www.sambafoot.com/en/news/22872_zagallo_at_80_-_a_legend_of_football.htmlhttp://blogs.guardian.co.uk/sport/2008/06/08/the_end_of_forward_thinking.htmlhttp://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/low/football/rules_and_equipment/4197702.stm


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External links

Introduction to formations

(http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/rules_and_equipment/4197420.stm) at BBC Sport

The development of early formations (http://www.nscaa.com/subpages/20060331154402100.php)

from National Soccer Coaches Association of America

Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Formation_(association_football)&oldid=645649619"

35. ^ "Sistemas de Juego: [Capítulo I : 4–4–2] – Fútbol Gol" (http://www.futbolgol.es/futbol-gol/sistemas-de-

juego-capitulo-i-4-4-2.html). Futbolgol.es. Retrieved 2012-11-07.

36. ^ "I Like Pellegrini's 4–2–2–2 formation — Real Madrid Star Kaka"

(http://www.goal.com/en/news/12/spain/2009/09/19/1510122/i-like-pellegrinis-4-2-2-2-formation-real-madrid-

star-kaka). Goal.com. 19 September 2009. Retrieved 28 June 2010.

37. ^ "El hombre que cambió la vida a Pellegrini"

(http://www.marca.com/2009/06/02/futbol/equipos/real_madrid/1243937473.html). MARCA.com. 2 June

2009. Retrieved 2012-11-07.

38. ^ "Real Madrid manager madness: Spurs flop Juande Ramos becomes 10th in 10 years"

(http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Real-Madrid-manager-madness-Spurs-flop-Juande-Ramos-becomes-

10th-in-10-years-article34645.html). Mirrorfootball.co.uk. 9 December 2008. Retrieved 28 June 2010.

39. ^ "Curses, wallies and the return of the Russian linesman"

(http://fourfourtwo.com/blogs/championsleague/archive/2009/02/20/curses-wallies-amp-the-return-of-the-

russian-linesman.aspx). Fourfourtwo.com. Retrieved 28 June 2010.

40. ^ Wilson, Jonathan (24 June 2009). "The Question: How is Brazil's 4–2–3–1 different from a European 4–2–

3–1?" (http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/blog/2009/jun/24/the-question-brazil-4-2-3-1). The Guardian

(London). Retrieved 2 May 2010.

41. ^ a b "Tim Vickery column" (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/6517085.stm#questions). BBC News. 2

April 2007. Retrieved 2 May 2010.

42. ^ " "El cuadrado mágico nace con los ángulos mágicos" – Luxemburgo"

(http://www.as.com/futbol/articulo/cuadrado-magico-nace-angulos-magicos/20050907dasdaiftb_11/Tes).

AS.com. Retrieved 2012-11-07.

43. ^ "4–2–2–2" (http://www.football-lineups.com/tactic/4-2-2-2). Football-lineups.com. Retrieved 28 June 2010.

44. ^ "Football Tactics: 4–2–2–2 | Deak's Football Blog" (http://deak.co.uk/2009/04/11/football-tactics-4-2-2-2/).Deak.co.uk. Retrieved 28 June 2010.

45. ^ Roberticus (19 May 2009). "santapelota: Overview of Brazilian Football Part II:"

(http://santapelota.blogspot.com/2009/05/overview-of-brazilian-football-part-ii.html).

Santapelota.blogspot.com. Retrieved 28 June 2010.

46. ^ "FIFA World Cup Finals — France 1998" (http://www.cartage.org.lb/en/themes/sports/football/br-fr.html).

Cartage.org.lb. Retrieved 28 June 2010.

47. ^ Wilson, Jonathan (25 May 2012). "The Question: How best for Manchester United to combat Barcelona?"

(http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2011/may/25/manchester-united-barcelona-champions-league). The

Guardian (London).

http://www.cartage.org.lb/en/themes/sports/football/br-fr.htmlhttp://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/rules_and_equipment/4197420.stmhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BBC_Sporthttp://www.marca.com/2009/06/02/futbol/equipos/real_madrid/1243937473.htmlhttp://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/blog/2009/jun/24/the-question-brazil-4-2-3-1http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2011/may/25/manchester-united-barcelona-champions-leaguehttp://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Formation_(association_football)&oldid=645649619http://santapelota.blogspot.com/2009/05/overview-of-brazilian-football-part-ii.htmlhttp://deak.co.uk/2009/04/11/football-tactics-4-2-2-2/http://www.nscaa.com/subpages/20060331154402100.phphttp://www.goal.com/en/news/12/spain/2009/09/19/1510122/i-like-pellegrinis-4-2-2-2-formation-real-madrid-star-kakahttp://www.futbolgol.es/futbol-gol/sistemas-de-juego-capitulo-i-4-4-2.htmlhttp://www.football-lineups.com/tactic/4-2-2-2http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/6517085.stm#questionshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Soccer_Coaches_Association_of_Americahttp://www.as.com/futbol/articulo/cuadrado-magico-nace-angulos-magicos/20050907dasdaiftb_11/Teshttp://fourfourtwo.com/blogs/championsleague/archive/2009/02/20/curses-wallies-amp-the-return-of-the-russian-linesman.aspxhttp://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Real-Madrid-manager-madness-Spurs-flop-Juande-Ramos-becomes-10th-in-10-years-article34645.html


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