What is an attacking system?  

An attacking system is the basic ‘shape’ of your team when they have the ball. While players naturally move around, this shape should be maintained (more or less) whenever your team are in possession. 

Your chosen system provides a framework for two- and three-player core moves. If you don’t adopt a shape, players tend to crowd each other. This is especially true for younger teams.  

Examples of attacking systems 

Here are three of the most common attacking systems. 

• 1-3-1 

This can be a great starting point for young players.  

• 1-4-0 

• 1-2-2 

Ok, so what about defensive systems?