4-2-2-2

by Si Peake
(Manchester, UK)

There is also the 4-2-2-2 formation, as regularly used used by the Brazil team. This is like a 4-4-2 but all 4 midfielders play narrow with 2 attacking midfielders in front of 2 defensive midfielders.

It relies on attacking full backs (such as Roberto Carlos and Cafu) for width. It can be useful for accommodating a wealth of creativity whilst also keeping things compact.

The French side used it in the 1980s with the famous "magic square" of Platini, Giresse, Tigana and Fernandes (or Genghini). Brazilian coach Wanderley Luxemburgo tried to introduce it when he was coach of Real Madrid in 2005 but it didn't work. Also popular in Brazilian club football.