GK LB LCB RCB RB LM LCM RCM RM LST RST ‹ ▶ Play Step 1 of 3 ›
We're a goal down. Change: full-backs push on, wide midfielders come inside, a midfielder joins the strikers.
Drawn for 11v11 4-4-2. Pick your own format and shape and every step is redrawn for your players. Then present it or send it to your team.
Step by step We're a goal down. Change: full-backs push on, wide midfielders come inside, a midfielder joins the strikers. A 3-4-3 shape in possession with three staying back. Full-back crosses; four players attack the box. Rest defence stays close to their strikers. When to use it The last fifteen to twenty minutes when you're losing by a goal or two.
Coaching points Add an attacker: a midfielder becomes a third striker, or a defender is swapped for a forward. Full-backs push high and give width; wingers come inside into the box. Get four players into the box for every cross. Keep two centre-backs and one midfielder back as rest defence. Shoot when you get the chance: a deflection or rebound can be enough. Who does what Position Their job Extra striker Attacks the near post and the six-yard box. Full-backs Width and crosses. Wingers Into the box for the far post. Rest defence Two centre-backs and a midfielder, close to their forwards.
When they change it If they… You… They drop everyone back Shoot from the edge, cross early, attack second balls. They counter quickly Rest defence steps in early; don't commit the last midfielder. We score Reset: back to the normal shape if a draw is enough.
Common mistakes Everyone piling forward and conceding on the counter. Hitting long balls with nobody to win them. Panic: losing the shape that created chances. At 7v7, 9v9 and 11v11
7v7 In development formats, focus on enjoying the game rather than tactical changes late on.
9v9 Move a midfielder up beside the striker.
11v11 The board: a 4-4-2 becoming a 3-4-3 shape in possession. See the full 11v11 4-4-2 formation guide for the shape, positions and drills.
Drills to practise it Questions coaches ask How do you chase a game? Add an attacker, push full-backs on, fill the box for crosses, and keep a planned rest defence.
How many should stay back when chasing a game? Usually two centre-backs and a holding midfielder.
When should we change things? Many coaches change around 20 minutes from the end if they're behind.
More tactics boards ← All tactics boards · Formations · Drills
