Definition of 4-4-2

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One of the most famous formations in football is that of the 4-4-2. It became uniform in England up until the last couple of decades. Even now, it is the most widely used formation in the world thanks to its simplicity and efficiency when used correctly.

Starting from the back, there are 4 defenders arranged in a straight line. 2 central defenders and 2 full-backs, one on each side. In the midfield, there is the rather unique formation of a "Flat Four". 2 wide midfielders that surround a pair that occupy the center of the pitch. Finally, two strikers occupy the frontline, playing off of one another.

The idea of this formation is to have two solid lines of defense, while being able to counter quickly once the ball is won back. The way this is usually done is down the wings, as both the strikers and full backs can support the flanks to create an overload on that side. Meanwhile, one central midfielder moves forwards to help with the attack and the other stays back to stop opposing counters.

The striker pair can also make one of the most deadly forces one the field. Traditionally in the English game, it was made up of one taller striker (a targetman) and a smaller one who would play off of him. Now there are many other variations, but those that stick with the 4-4-2 do typically tend to have at least one larger striker to win those long passes.

The formation has fallen out of use in recent times at the top level with the innovations of the 4-3-3 and 3-at-the-back formations. However, it is still a stable formation that is used at almost all levels of the game all over the world.