Best Defensive Formations?
Wanted to hear from people about this. What do you think defensively is the best formation in the game? With AI positioning becoming more crucial, I find that defensive instructions/tactics are a must to get down.
I've been experimenting with what I could and these 3 would always be my go-to in terms of conceding less.
- 4-2-3-1 🏈
- 4-3-3 (2 CDM)
- 5-2-1-2
If we're talking about lining up your team for the easiest possible defensive game, Any 2 CDM formations does the job. Compared to formations like 442 with central CMs, The auto-positioning from the AI urgently gets your midfielders behind the ball and in front of passing lanes/space.
I do believe though the 5 at the back formations offers that much more congestion in the box when defending if you're typically a player who blocks shots. The 5-2-1-2 though I find is more congested and narrow defensively than the 5-3-2 and make it more difficult for your opponent to break though, due to your CM's being pushed away from the CDMs space and left out wide.
As for tactics, I much prefer this simplified version EA has made. I don't think there is a wrong tactic but it entirely depends on how you play. I found when using aggressive, people could make 1 move/ball roll in their half and I could just see my team open up entirely and that would be it. Where deeper/mid tactics gave me more time and chances to pick my tackles and interceptions.
Also moving or taking control of any of your backline defenders just increases your chances of conceding by 300%. There are crazy blocks and saves from your AI when you let them stand in their default position and perform magic. I sometimes 2nd man press to get them to close space but only control if the game switches me to them (the games telling you they broke though and are about to have a goal-scoring opportunity)
That's just my take on the few I think would be the best options if your priority was to concede LESS. I know attack is important but I just remember the first time trying 4-2-3-1 for instance and thinking, wow this is more effortless to defend with than your standard CM formations. Let me know your opinion on defense this year,
