The 3-4-3 Formation - Soccer Formations

The 3-4-3 is an ultra offensive soccer formation. With three strikers and four midfielders your team will be able to win the midfield war and also play well in offense. However, this formation is not an option if your team likes to play defensive soccer. In that case, the 4-4-2 is a much better choice as your team will get a well balanced defense with a solid offensive tactic.

So what are the strengths of the 3-4-3 formation? Well, as already mentioned this formation has 3 strikers which mean that your team will have great capabilities in offensive. This formation has also a strong midfield which is equal to a 4-4-2 formation (the most common formation used in soccer).

The main weakness of this formation is that your team will play with 3 defenders which will create holes in your team’s defense. In order to help your defenders, all of your midfielders need to put big effort in the defense work. However, this will require a lot of energy and that’s why your midfielders need to pose good fitness abilities. Simply, without good fitness your team should not choose to play with this formation.

I personally like the 3-4-3 because it is a great weapon against defensive teams. Such teams tend to have 8 players near their 18 yard box and 2 fast strikers at the top. As soon as they regain possession of the ball they cross the ball behind your defense line.

While the ball is in the air their strikers will run after it and force your defenders to chase them. However, a smart team will generally have 1-2 midfielders that have good conditioning abilities and that are able to help their defenders with stopping the strikers from scoring.

While it may sound like a pretty boring task to help your defenders I can ensure you that it is pretty fun when you get used to it. You will also have the ball much more at your feet as your defenders will often pass it to you when they regain possession of it.

It is therefore important to pose good ball handling skills as you will be the one that starts the offensive attacks. Also, keep in mind to always pass the ball safely while you are on your own half. If you lose the ball to an opponent you will cause your defense big problems.