Football formations explained: 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1 and 3-5-2

When a commentator says a team plays a "4-3-3", what does that mean? The numbers show how many players are in each line, from defence to attack, not counting the goalkeeper. They always add up to 10.

4-4-2: the classic

Four defenders, four midfielders and two strikers. It was the most popular system for decades, especially in England.

• Strengths: balanced and easy to organise, with two compact banks of four when defending. The two strikers can link up with each other.
• Weaknesses: with only two central midfielders, the team can be outnumbered in midfield by systems with three.

4-3-3: control and width

Four defenders, three midfielders and three forwards, usually a striker and two wingers.

• Strengths: stretches the pitch and gives an extra player in midfield. It is a favourite of possession-based teams such as Barcelona.
• Weaknesses: the wingers must help defend. If they don't, the full-backs are left exposed.

4-2-3-1: the most common today

Four defenders, two defensive midfielders, three attacking midfielders and one striker.

• Strengths: the two holding midfielders provide security, and the central attacking midfielder (the "number 10") links midfield and attack.
• Weaknesses: the striker can become isolated if the attacking midfielders don't get close enough.

3-5-2: three centre-backs and wing-backs

Three centre-backs, five midfielders and two strikers. The two wide midfielders are wing-backs, who cover the entire flank, up and down.

• Strengths: solid in the centre of defence and very strong in midfield. It is traditional in Italy.
• Weaknesses: it demands wing-backs with great stamina, and the flanks can be vulnerable.

Formations change during the game

In practice, a formation is only a starting point. A team might defend in a 4-4-2 and attack in a 3-4-3, for example, when one full-back pushes forward and the other three defenders form a line. That's why coaches increasingly talk about "behaviours" rather than fixed numbers.

Tip: next time you watch a match, notice where the players position themselves when their team has the ball and when it doesn't. You'll see how much the "shape" changes.