The 4-4-2 is the most widely used system in the game of soccer today. Arguably the most successful system, the 4-4-2 provides numbers where needed and many different options and variations on how to play. Below are descriptions of the position requirements of the 4-4-2.

KEEPER: The keeper must have good technique in handling crosses, stopping shots and distribution. Must be confident in closing down angles and have the ability to play with both feet. The keeper must have good communication skills and will stay in the goal area due to good numbers in back and middle.

DEFENDERS: The right fullback will be dominantly right-footed and the left fullback will be dominantly left-footed. The fullbacks must also be technically sound in heading, receiving and passing. Their passing range will be both short and long. Defenders must be good tacklers with the ability to win the ball, maintain composure, dribble or pass their way out of pressure, and quickly restart the attack. They must also have a physical presence on the field with good communication skills. Defenders need stamina for marking, providing support to the midfield, and timely overlapping runs out of the back.

CENTER BACKS: Usually bigger in size, with a strong physical presence, these players must be outstanding in the air – but also comfortable with both feet. Passing range will be both short and long and will usually involve diagonal balls. Center backs are often team leaders that can read the game quickly, organize the defense, and communicate and motivate all team members. Center Backs can play either flat or with sweeper/man marking role and they will look to carry the ball into space and link with the four-player midfield.

MIDFIELD: The four midfielders can play many different roles: either flat or three across middle with one in front of or behind the three. (See Variations on 4-4-2 below.) Another option is the diamond shaped midfield, which is used by Brazil to control the middle and gains width on attack from the outside backs.

OUTSIDE MIDS: Outside mids will keep their width to maintain shape. Their roles will be to support their defenders but also attack wide on both flanks. Right midfield players will be dominantly right footed and left midfield players will be dominantly left footed. Outside mids can switch flanks. This adds a different attacking dimension. Outside mids must have good ball skills, the ability to attack with pace, and again a very high fitness level. Passing range will be short and long – with the ability to swerve the ball to either post. Mentally they must be prepared to make lots of runs – often without getting the ball.

CENTER MIDS: Of the two center mids one may be more attack-oriented, while the other is more of a defensive minded player. They must both be technically sound in heading, receiving and passing. They must both be very fit and solid in their tackling. One or both must be creative in their play. The “defending” center mid may also be responsible for tracking an opposing forward. Both players must look for shooting chances on either foot.

FORWARDS: Can be mixed in size with the taller being a target player and the smaller being the creator. Must have good work ethics and the ability to regain possession from defenders. Forwards must have a good understanding of the game and be able to work together in tight spaces. Both forwards must take every opportunity to shoot with either foot and from any position in the attacking third. Visual or verbal communication skills must be good.

Variation of the 1-4-4-2 System of Play