Best FIFA 23 formation: Win more games in Ultimate team
To win more games you need the best fifa 23 formation. Our top 5 fifa 23 formations and tactics should help most players. Also on the page are pro player formation and tactics for the top players to use. You can have 5 formations set in your team tactics. Make sure to set them up for styles of play and attacking or defending.
The best formations give you the strongest balance to attack and defend to win games. If your favourite players are wingers but the formation doesn’t have any, you can change formation after kick off using the d-pad. Also to have full chemistry you might have to start with a different formation and then switch it in game. Player chemistry is unaffected after the match starts. However subs only have 5 chemistry.
Formations need tactics and the right players so keep an eye on this page and our site for more in depth guides. Explaining the best tactics to use and which players for all budgets.
The best FIFA 23 formation 4-4-2
4-4-2 is still the king of formations in FIFA 23 for us. Players fill the areas of the pitch giving good attacking and defensive options. Switching the ball and long high balls onto wingers is still very effective. Definitely need 2 strikers in FIFA 23.
Advantages: Extremely strong attacking and defending down the wings. With top full backs you can even drop a CM between defenders and let them overlap wingers.
Disadvantages: With no central player in the formation sometimes an opponent can create chances through the middle. Make sure to manually move the CMs more centrally when defending to help stop that gap.
4-2-2-2 strong formation FIFA 23
4-2-2-2 our 2nd choice works really well for good fifa players. Knowing where your players will be to play those 1-2 passes and counter. Breaking down attacks quickly to start your own. Hard to choose between the top 2 formations but we find wingers set a bit deeper than the CAMs a little better in FIFA 23.
Advantages: Extremely strong attacking and defending down the wings. With top full backs you can even drop a CM between defenders and let them overlap wingers.
Disadvantages: A bit stronger defensively than 4-4-2 but loses some of the attacking options.
4-3-2-1 attacking formation FIFA 23
The 3rd best fifa formation we have used is 4-3-2-1. Setting this up in the Liverpool style gave lots of good attacks and runs. The only formation with three central strikers close together. In 23 the two wider strikers found really good gaps at the sides of the defence. Hopefully EA don’t patch the game to nerf this. Really enjoying those attacking plays.
Advantages: A very attacking formation if set up correctly. Exploits gaps in defence to run through on goal.
Disadvantages: Can lack a bit of stability in defence as it relies on your central CM a lot when used in an attacking way.
4-1-2-1-2 (2) attacking formation FIFA 23
4th favourite FIFA 23 formation. Still one of the strongest formations if you have a powerful CDM and a creative CAM. However it slides down the list this year so far. Still strong defensively but attacking lacks wider players. If use 4-1-2-1-2 wide version lacks defensive strength. Create a tactic with the defence quite high to create short passing.
Advantages: Good for defensive strength. CAM can be the best player on pitch with through balls and forward runs in the space.
Disadvantages: Can lack wide attacking options for trivela shots and crosses.
4-2-3-1 defensive formation FIFA 23
5th best in FIFA 23 is the 4-2-3-1 formation. One of the strongest defensively over the years with two CDM players covering the defence. If struggling to defend this is always a go to formation even ahead of 5 at the back. Strong defensive midfielders are always more useful in the game compared to centre backs.
Advantages: Has close midfielders for triangle passes with potential wingers to stretch the play. Extremely good for counter attacks, don’t even need to set players to run in behind. Very solid defensively.
Disadvantages: Sometimes difficult to create chances if you don’t have top wingers in the CAM positions. Unless you have top players as the CAMs with pace and high dribbling. Lacks 2 strikers for those 1-2 moves.
Best FIFA 23 custom tactics and formation
See which formations and tactics pro players use in FIFA 23. The tactics are very important to make the formations work how you want. In elite division and FUT Champions against top players it is good to know what the top players use. Try them and see if any improve your game.
Tekkz custom tactics FIFA 23
Tom Stokes custom tactics: Elite division tactics in FIFA 23
BorasLegend custom tactics fifa 23
Harry Hesketh custom tactics fifa 23
Best formation in fifa 23:
- 4-4-2 formation is very strong in defence and attack with lots of options.
- 4-2-2-2 a great formation, again strong in defence and attack.
- 4-3-2-1 one of our favourite attacking formations in fifa 23.
- 4-1-2-1-2 (2) Narrow version is very compact for quicker passing. Not much space to be broken down easily.
- 4-2-3-1 strong defensively use if losing too much.
As the patches are released for FIFA 23 we will review this and tweak our opinions as necessary. Hopefully the game won’t change too much. There were 30 patches in the last FIFA!
Best formation this year? Any updates like last year on formations custom tactics & player instructions?
Going to do something new for FIFA16 we couldn’t even decide fully in FIFA15 so the reviews of them before still stood
Would that formation work in head to head? not liking any formation this year last year was 41212 Hands down but seems weak this year.
Could you recommend me a formation to try for now ? Thanks J
4-3-1-2,less to the wing but great in offence
What formation are you finding the best so far? Been using the 41212 but left & right mids don’t seem like there getting involved and doesn’t seem as effective as it use to! Is there a formation worth trying? Thanks
Going to update them all soon. Been tricky have to admit. Especially as every opponent uses 4-3-3 so hard to test against other formations.
Im searching for a formation that will fit my style of play the best. Right now I am playing a 4-2-2-2 but am open to anything. In my games i generally dominate possession at least 55% but i don’t find the back of the net often enough. I like to attack quick and efficient passing but can’t seem to get close enough to finish regularly. I’m wondering what formation would support my style of play the best.
Maybe not your formation but how you create and score chances? If not getting close enough to goal sounds like you need more 1-2 play and throw in some skills to create space.
umm.. I want to ask, How we decide Free form or Organised Form in a Formation ? Sorry for bad grammar
Do you want your players to be any position on pitch? SO a midfield player becomes striker. A defender becomes midfielder? This is free form. You need good players with high attack and defence ratings for this. Or organised when players stick to their positions?
Thx man, I Appreciated that.
hi.what’s best formation for Man city….please some body help me..
All depends how you play FIFA and the players you choose. And how good you are at FIFA.
I run the 4-3-3 Attack with Man City. David Silva is Solid at LW and I have Navas at RW. I also purchased Paul Pogba and use him at CAM. The Two mids behind him are Yaya and Fernandinho. My defense is the same, but I purchased Pique. This works wonders for me I hope it does the same for you if you choose to use it.
l like 3-5-2, 4-2-3-1, 4-1-2-1-2, and 4-3-2-1
I very much like to play the system that Ajax is currently using, so 4-3-3 with 1 CDM and 2 CM/CAM’s.. Now i was wondering, would it make a difference if I give the “attacking” midfielders the CAM position instead of the CM position in custom formation?
Will that make them more attacking, making more forward runs? (I know it depends on the workrates too)
All about the player, work rate, and the tactics used, giving them a CAM won’t make any difference.
What’s the best formation to combat a 4-5-1 with 2 attacking midfield players?i am Argentina in ultimate team without messi and my friend I play has that formation and need help to beat him
If you use same formation 4-5-1 then it is who is the better player. Formations depend on your players and how you play.
need help, my opponent keeps sapmming crosses with real madrid and scores a lot. I go for the ground game build up, but then he eeps his team presing on and on top of that secondary press , so it’s like 3 players on me at once. need a good formation with PSG to counter it . plz help
Firstly watch our video on defending crosses. Youtube linked top right of website. Then do lob balls over his pressing players 😉
i think the best formation with PSG is a 4-1-3-2 because of the two strikers cavani en ibrahimovic who can both score with headers
Hey 🙂
I use 4-1-2-3 with Athletic Club and I’m not sure about who my main striker should be (Aduriz or Ibai)
Do you think it is a good formation for the club? I really love playing possesion
Never used Bilbao sorry. Any formations with lots of midfielders are good for possession.
What do you think the capabilities of a 5-1-3-1 are? That’s a RWB, RCB, CB, LCB, LWB, CDM, RM, CM , LM, CF.
When should it be used and what are it’s advantages and disadvantages?
Not tested them all yet for 14. Long process overs a few weeks testing each over number of games.
Do you think that the 4-1-2-1-2 will still be the best in FIFA 14?
Will always be a strong formation. Testing them all takes a while though.
FIFA 14. I have been playing seasons (not UT) with various teams and getting crushed as compared to 13. I feel as though the match ups are a lot looser in 14, but regardless, I always feel as though even though they tamed the pace this year people are just lobbing through balls and my back line is always breaking down. I have been sticking with Real Madrid lately. I usually change my back line to include Varane and Marcelo on the outside. Also, their defenders always catch my strikers, but not vice versa.
Updating all the defending and attacking and formations and tactics etc at the moment. Keep looking at them all.
I am playing Barcelona and my opponents are often Real Madrid or Manchester United. I prefer playing on the wings and using crossing the ball to the box, but my defense is rather weak on the counter attack. What do you suggest a good attacking strategy and the best defensive strategy for Barcelona against those two teams?
Use 3-5-2 with Song as a CB. Set your tactic to possession football.
I use Real Madrid but i want messi as striker but also to have 2 other strikers and to have wingers what should i do? I looked at the 2-3-5 formation but they don’t have it on FIFA 13.
Use Messi as a CAM or CF in FIFA13.
You can use the 4-3-3 false 9 with Messi in a CF role?
IM making a mexican team i want a lm/rm and also a lw/rw on the team and i suck at defense but im really good at attacking what formation should I use
Hey man! your website is really good!.
Well I am searching for a team that is good at defence ( really really good!) and should have fast wingers
which team and formation do you prefer?
also can you suggest any defensive formation for real madrid 😀 ?
Thanks!
You need Thiago Silva and Chiellini next to each other and Santana from Dortmund if using 3. Then down one side have Brazilian players and down other side Italian league. Then you can have fast wingers from either of them. We prefer 4-1-2-1-2 but 3-5-2 might suit you better. Madrid should win whichever formation they use. 4-2-3-1 is what the pro players use.
Hey, i think this page is really helpful for picking a formation but i need some help choosing a formation. I usually play on the counter attack but i am sick of the 3-5-2 and other 5 at the back formations. when i play 4-3-2-1 and 4-3-3 i always get caught on the counter even if all my midfielders are defensive minded like toure, fellaini etc. i have also played alot of the 4-2-3-1 but i want something different but strong as it coming to the end of fifa 13. I havnt used the 4-1-2-1-2 yet this fifa, but not sure if i will like it. help please 🙂
Try using Mikel
I like to pass the ball around a lot and keep possession and wait for the perfect opportunity to score, i use 41212, ive tried a lot of formations and a lot of different players in FUT 13 but the same things seem to happen all the time, i go forward passing around working my way up the pitch but when i get tackled all my midfield are to far up leaving a counter with just my defenders, ive even tried 2 CDM’s with low attack and high defence but still they run up the pitch leaving no cover for counter attack, what is the best formation for passing , possession , perfect opportunity style football and can you give me any tips on custom tactics for this as well please, thanks.
i love to keep the ball as well. my favourite formation in fifa 13 and 12 is the 4231 formation. 3421 is a really effective formation as well and i have had success with both formations on fut. the key with the 4231 formation from a defensive point of view are the full backs’ work rates. i like using medium/high or medium/medium full backs so that you don’t get exposed on the wings on the counter. your 3 attacking mids need to be good technical players who can provide chances and are capable of scoring a few goals themselves.
3421 gives you more options in attack and you will create more chances but you may get exposed to quick break aways when you get dispossessed. for this formation 2 or 3 top quality defenders with pace of at least 70/75 are needed and the rm and lm need at least medium defensive work rates. the rf and lf give the striker great support, something that occassionally may lack in the 4231 formation where the striker may get isolated
hey, i’m going to make a brazilian team,
i’ll be using players like neymar and kelvin and other similar players with 5 star skills,
also i will have fast cb’s being dede, santana and naldo ect
my play style consists of counterattacking and fast pace tempo,
which formation would be best effective for a counterattacking, skill brazilian team?
thanks
4-3-2-1 or 3-5-2 or any with 5 at back for counter.
Im playing a 4-1-2-1-2 and it is not working out for me what formation do you recomend
You have to use one that suits your players and style of play. How do you like to play FIFA?
Hey Barca, I’m using a 451 formation, and I just realize the CM attacks a lot. Who do you recommend for this position? I’m using a BPL team with:
Cech; Walker; Kaboul; Vertonghen; Clichy
Neymar; Oscar; Fellaini (CM); Carzola; Valencia
Balotelli
I’m doing quite good so far, but maybe, I can improve with the right CM. I have lot’s of money btw.
Tks
Normal Carzola or Taarabt if can do skills.
I’ve had 4-1-2-1-2 for every squad I’ve built it FUT so far and It just hasn’t worked out well at all. I’m thinking of going back to a seria A squad 3-5-2, I’m not a dribbler type of player either.
Fair enough. Have to try until you find formation and players you feel good with.
I miss the 4-2-4 formation. I love to play it in online seasons. You have so many attacking options. Or is thus only about UT?
About all of FIFA.
I play with psg. Which formation do you suggest ?
Thank you
Formations depend on your style of play.
i have another question. I decided to try a new formation and make a Italian squad (I have never had one before) Im using 4-3-1-2. I am not sure who to use as a CF. Should I use Cassano, Boateng (Milan one), or Pirlo since he is a good creator?
Thx
hey boateng mate, i have been using an italian team and it did really good i had boateng he is really good thats my oppinion. go with boateng 🙂 hope this was a help
i have another question. I decided to try a new formation and make a Italian squad (I have never had one before) Im using 4-3-1-2. I am not sure who to use as a CF. Should I use Cassano, Boateng (Milan one), or Pirlo since he is a good creator?
Thx
please best formation for barcelona and custom tactics for this plan please and thank you
No such thing. All depends how you play FIFA and the players you use.
what is the way to defend and attack against a very good Bayern muchen side when they are playin 4-2-3-1 formation??
Use same formation always best way to defend against one. Depends how your opponent plays FIFA? uses wings? skills? passing? long shots?
Hey B4arca!
I am not sure which formation to use… I often build up play slowly and i often shoot from outside the box…
What formation would you recommend me to use?
4-5-1? 4-1-2-1-2 is good for shooting with CAM outside the box.
Any suggestions on how i can improve my team??
Lloris
Gonul Rami Mascherano Jordi alba
vidal toulalan
bale ronaldo
james rodriguez
hazard
I try to play with quick passes and counters
Replace Mascherano with anyone tall and quick
I am using a default 4-3-3 formation and was wondering what slider numbers I should use as well as whether I should use free form or organised. I would also be grateful if you could tell me what formation I should use to get lots of through ball chances and if there are any tips for using 4-3-3 in Ultimate Team as well as tips for the formation you recommend for me.
All depends on your style of play. If want to do through balls set players to look for quick passing but direct not short. Then only use players with high attack work rate.
I am building a 433 formation and I bought Nasri in a 451. I want to know which formation card I can buy that can make the formation orange instead of red. I don’t want to pay for the 433 formation
4-3-2-1?
why can’t i win with this formation
4-4-2
never
abate
maicon
chiellini
allves
cm-boateng, ramires
bale
messi
ronaldo
aguero
4-4-2 is hard to use. Try 4-3-1-2 or 4-1-2-1-2 if struggling to attack.
Hey there,
What is your opinion on the 4-2-4 formation?
I find I do pretty good when I use it in seasons, or against friends.
Just wondering if you have any tips to using it.
Thanks!
Play quick and to wingers as soon as possible.
im building 4-1-2-1-2 squad but i dont know how i should get to my second striker and squad is
GK Lloris
LB Jordi Alba CB Pique CB Vertonghen RB Walker
CDM Xabi Alonso
LM Iniesta RM Di Maria
CAM Götze
ST Reus ST?
Well if you want chemistry have to go with Esswein.
hey b4rca . Wt is your opinion on 4-5-1 v style . Is it overrated ?
4-5-1 v style? not sure what you mean. Quite a good formation.
Im making a 4-1-2-1-2 bundesliga team in UT and i don’t know who to put in as cam either kroos or muller. this is my team atm
lahm-hummels-santana- alaba
martinez
bastos- blaszcykowski
None
Gomez- Reus
Kroos is good.
What formations would you recommend in defeating a 5-3-2 counter attacking real madrid team? In addition, can you recommend what build up play style (slow, fast, medium) and passing style (short, long, medium) will accompany this formation. I generally use borussia dortmund, arsenal or juventus. Thanks
b4rca what you think? 4-3-2-1 GK-CECH, DC-KABOUL,LUIZ,KOMPANY, CM-YAYA TOURE,RAMIRES, RM-VALENCIA, LM-BALE, LW-HAZARD, RW-BEN ARFA, ST-BALOTELLI
Strong team would have D.Cisse QPR rather than Balotelli.
tnx
BARCA
What should I start the game with when using 3-4-3, like ultra D, D, normal, A, ultra A ??
Depends on the players you are using and how good you are at FIFA.
Also, what is the best team to combat, Lewandaski and Borussia Dortmund
Any with strong defenders like Juventus, PSG, Brazil etc.
What is the best formation and custom tactics with PSG, and who would you say should be the DM
4-1-2-1-2 Seems good with PSG. Lavezzi left wing Lucas right.
http://www.futhead.com/fifa/squads/11235741/ would this squad work well?
With 4-1-2-1-2 what custom tactics do you go with generally?
Just leave them as default as can’t change them in UT and h2h set it up for a more slow short passing game.
Brad Friedel 13
Edinson Cavani 15
Pepe 14
nounkeo 12
Patrice Evra 14
Álvaro Arbeloa 14
Balázs Dzsudzsák 12
Xavi 14
Thiago Motta 14
sami khedira 13
Wayne Rooney 14
milos ninkovic 12
Alexis Sanchez 14
Scholes 13
Beckham 12
Kolo Toure 13
Manuel Neuer 13
rodrigo palacio 14
BARCA PLS SUGGEST ME THE BEST FORMATION AND FIRST XI
PLEASE
Keep Palacio, Neuer, Rooney, Dzsudzak, Pepe. Wouldn’t have any of the others.
which formation would be the best to use with stoke? as in strong defense but also wings to attack down with etherington and pennant with jones in the middle for the head and jerome for a through ball with his pace?
4-1-2-1-2 or maybe 3-5-2 as they weak in midfield
Does anyone no why fifa don’t have LW or RW on the formation 4-2-3-1
Just what EA decided.
4-3-3
Neuer
Maicon
Ramos
T.Silva
Lahm
Y.Toure
Khedira
Fabregas
Neymar
Ronaldo
Aguero
….. you will probably win dude 🙂
Not a fan of 4-3-3 really.
Delete my previous comment. I have now found out that Green Links does affect play, so although Hybrids may be beastly they do come at a cost.
Is this squad any good and name me any improvements? And also answer these questions.
Hugo Lloris is the best keeper, and Maicon and Kompany are the best in there positions.
Is there any other non IF defender I should consider getting instead of Kaboul? Also should I get rid of Clichy and put Evra or Cole in his place. I thought that the speed would be useful that’s why I have Clichy.
Yaya Toure’s the best in his position I know, so is Valencia. Should I have Hazard RM and Bale LM? If not who should I have Bale or Hazard in a 4-1-2-1-2.
Nasri, Mata or David Silva? Because Nasri has got incredible skills, weakfoot , strength and speed all in one in my opinion. I haven’t used Mata or David Silva so please let me know your opinion.
Torres + Aguero, who else do you think I should have instead of them because there are strikers like Van persie, Rooney, suarez, Balotelli, Loic Remy etc etc that I haven’t tried out so your opinion please (I’m thinking Balotelli and Aguero for some reason don’t know why)
Hugo Lloris GK
Maicon RB Kompany CB Kaboul CB Clichy LB
Yaya Toure CDM
Valencia RM Nasri CAM Hazard LM
Aguero ST Torres ST
I have a 4-3-3 formation.
GK
Casillas,
DEFENSE
Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, Sergio Ramos, Jordi Alba
MIDFIELD
Fabregas,Xavi,David Silva
OFFENSE
Iniesta,Falcao,Robben
Am i using the correct formation? Or is there a better one for these players.?
Any help is welcomed Thanks.
4-3-3 need strong defensive midfielders unless you are very good at FIFA. None of those 3 are strong. Would change players or formation to 4-1-2-1-2.
Hey Barca, just a quick question. Do the Red Links, orange links and Green Links have a impact on gameplay?
For example. Say this was my squad (I’m considering making it but I would like my answer first)
Buffon
Abate Chiellini Kompany Clichy
Marchisio Yaya Toure Nasri
Balotelli (Man City)
Torres Podolski (First name that came to my head) The formation is 4-3-1-2 As you can see there are dead links between my defence and some of my midfield. Would it affect my gameplay? Because if it does, this squad instead.
Reina
Johnson (liverpool) Kompany Kaboul Clichy 4-1-2–1-2 btw
Yaya Toure
Valencia Hazard , Nani or Bale LM?
Nasri (Best CAM right?)
Hernandez Torres because of what you said instead of Tevez =D
for dortmund which formation do you prefer 4-2-2-2 or 4-2-3-1 or 4-2-3-1 wide for h2h seasons thanks
Only used 4-1-2-1-2 really with Dortmund.
barca pls answer..3-4-2-1 is good? cech,kompany,kaboul,luiz,yaya toure,ramires,bale,valencia,hazard,ben arfa,balotelli??
Only if very good at FIFA and fast CBs
4-4-2 is by far my favorite one !
What will I use with that formation? The formation with the CF or CAM? I have only 2 ST. How many should my strikers should be? I only bought Ramirez in exchange for Torres for speed and Benzema for him to give my team strength in the air just like what Torres do. Then who should I buy? (Please give one or two)?
Does 4-4-1-1 make a team more attacking or defending or just balanced? What is more good to use? 4-3-3? 4-2-3-1? 4-4-1-1? I know it depends on players you use so here are my players. Im with Chelsea Fc manager mode 1st season because I repeated again because it freezes at 2023.
Courtois
Danilo-Varane-Gary Cahill-Alaba
Lampard-Leroy Fer-Oscar
Hazard-Benzema-Mata
Subs:
GK-HILARIO
CB-BRUMA
LB-DIDAC
RW-MOSES
CF-GAZTON RAMIREZ
CM-RAMIRES
CAM-MARIN
Note: Im using 4-3-3 holding. :)) Please reply! :))
4-4-1-1 is quite balanced. Would go 3-5-2 with those players.
What will I use with that formation? The formation with the CF or CAM? I have only 2 ST. How many should my strikers should be? I only bought Ramirez in exchange for Torres for speed and Benzema for him to give my team strength in the air just like what Torres do. Then who should I buy? (Please give one or two)?
Who should I play in attacking mid Reus or Hazard?
Both good players should both do well.
100% Reus down the middle. Have him as CAM or CF. Hazard is brilliant down the wing, but Reus is better at shooting.
Please add me jackaroo001 🙂
I just picked up Rooney and I am looking to get the best out of my attacking players. Right now in a 4-1-2-1-2 I have Van Persie & Podalski as my strikers with Rooney slotted in behind as the CAM.
I’ve played 4-4-1-1 and 4-4-2 in the past because I do like having width with my wingers as well but I am worried that if I move to one of those formations and drop Podalski I will lose most all of my pace moving forward.
Is Rooney well suited to play CAM or would be he better moving into the CF of the 4411 or pairing him as a striker with RvP? Is the lack of pace between Rooney and RvP something to be concerned about in a 442 / 4411?
Rooney is better at CAM than striker in our opinion.
Help …..
I am currently struggling against high pressure players on H2H division 3 right now. I use Borussia Dortmund and play either a 4-2-3-1 or 4-2-2-2 with gotze and blaszczykowsi as RM, and LM and reus as the CF or CAM, My DMs are usually gundogan and bender, and I generally play a medium possession oriented game Where I try to work my way around middle of the pitch waiting patiently to exploit any gaps that may arise in the wings. Right now my record is 30-14-13, but I have been finding it very difficult to maintain my style of play against players that generally use high pressure/ultra attacking plat with teams like real madrid, psg, and chelsea that have very fast wingers with high work rates. What formation/strategy would you recommend in counteracting such style of play. I would really hate to switch teams as I am pretty comfortable with BVB right now
You have a good record don’t see a problem. Try 3-5-2 and 4-1-2-1-2.
In a 4-1-2-1-2 , who’s better, Tevez, Balotelli or Torres. Because i’m thinking off getting one of them, If I get Tevez, will his speed be enough because I want to be sure he’ll be good enough (He doesn’t have to be super fast, Just faster than majority of Defenders.
Torres.
Quick Question, I’ve got a Serie A Team,
(4-2-2-2 or 4-2-3-1 I am really unsure, but that’s not my question)
My RB’s Lichtsteiner, my LB’s Paulo De Ceglie. Should I play Abate on the Left Back position? I’d still have Chemistry because of Chiellini and Marchisio near him surely?
And 4-2-2-2 or 4-2-3-1, My strikers Miccoli + Cavani, i’m thinking of getting Di Nitale for Miccoli. Is Di Nitale worth his price as either a CF or ST?
CHeck our twitter Miccoli one of our fav strikers. Fav LB soon to be tweeted too and he plays in Serie A 🙂
Hi what’s the best formation for a serie a team preferably a formation with no wingers because there’s only one player as a winger robinho
Depends how you play the game really and the players you want.
Having used your Barca tactics, Barca 4-3-3 formation, 4-2-3-1 formation with success with my Wycombe Wanderers team, I came across a problem last night and today as I faced Peterbrough twice in a row. They played a 5-2-1-2 formation and seemed to play deep and on the break. Although I narrowly beat them both times, I still struggled to break them down.
Have you any formations or tactics that’d help me break down this formation & tactics easier next time I come across it?
Not really EA produced a game where counter attack hitting long balls over top is annoyingly a good way to create chances. Luckily H2H is not as bad as UT for you. But still hard to break down.
I have previously won Division 1 using the 3-5-2, 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1 formation. However I have since tried a range of formations and have really struggled to build a strong team. It has been a while since I have managed to win the division tending to either scrape safety with 12-15 points or get relegated only to come straight back up. I generally prefer to go wide and dribble with wingers before moving the play inside to a quicker striker or go for the cross.Is there any tips, teams, formations you could advise on to help me get back to winning ways? I could answer any questions if it helps.
Go back to the formations you won the title with surely?
I usually play a medium build up play.. not very slow,neither very fast attack. i do cross,i do pass around. please help me with the custom tactics. i am really confused with that.
what is the best formation from all the formations above
Says on the page?
What’s the best formation for getting the best out off Messi
None he is rubbish in FIFA13 same as FIFA12. Better as CAM really.
What is the best formation for bundesliga i need RW atleast 1 CAM
Depends on how you play the game really.
i had a BPL team and used the 4-1-2-1-2 formation and always play my mate who uses a 4-5-1 liverpool squad and i just cannot beat him im going back to a brazilian squad and want to know the best formation against him as hes pretty good on his through balls over and on ground and his defense is good as well i used to have the brazilian squad at 4-1-2-1-2 worked fairly alright just want to know if there is a better formation to beat him with
Use 4-5-1 against him, about who is better player then.
Hi… I play with 4-2-2-2 formation,with real madrid. can you give me a good custom tactics please?? and which players i should play in RB,LB,CDM and CAM
Not just your formation or the players. Depends on your style of play too. You need to develop a tactic that matches that style. Then put the best players for that tactic. So do you cross or counter or pass it around etc.
For 4-2-2-2,organised,65 chance creation, posession and pacience
The 3-4-1-2 Formation has been working well for me, but sometimes the midfield and forwards get crammed up in the attack. So I was wondering if I should make any changes to my squad.
My Squad:
Mangala-Sakho-M’biwa
Biabiany-Pogba-Cabaye-N’Zogbia
Valbuena
Remy-Cisse (QPR one)
Look at their work rates if all a bit close.
i must say i prefer the 3-5-2 right now. i used a BPL and a La Liga 4-3-3 with very good players and yet i could not win the Division 1 title no matter how many times i bounced back and fourth between Div 1 & 2. i found that the 4-3-3 midfield was very week and it was very hard to maintain possession, especially against the players who use the ultra-attacking, high defensive double pressure tactic. plus, the 4-3-3 was very weak to counter-attacks and with the LB’s and RB’s always up and down the pitch, you could only really rely on the 2 CB’s to defend on the counter.
the 3-5-2, on the other hand, has a very strong midfield and the LM and RM provide GREAT width on the attack. and if they have at least a MED defensive work-rate, then they’ll get the job done on defense too to slow down the pace players who love sprinting down the sideline. plus the 3 CB’s always stay back so whenever you do get counter-attacked, you will ALWAYS have 3 men back as opposed to the 2 on a 4-3-3 (since the RB’s and LB’s are usually too far up the pitch and, therefore, have to race back just to get in position IF they can make it on time).
when i changed my squad, for the 3rd time, to a Serie A 3-5-2 i won the Division 1 title on just my second go-around in the division! the midfield is great and the two CDM’s provide great cover (i use Vidal and Pirlo).
this is by far the best 3-at-the-back formation to use. the only weakness is the space down the flanks in your opponents attacking part of the pitch, but most players online don’t really exploit this. instead, they just try to play directly over the top through balls with their pace players and the 3 CB’s do a good job cleaning this up. OR even if they do manage to counter you and their pace-players are running at you down the pitch, your 3 CB’s will almost always do a good job slowing the opponent down until the rest of your team catches up.
i recommend these CB’s have high defensive work-rates and pace above 70. the middle one ( at least, if not all three) also needs to have a very powerful and good heading ability because i find that a lot of goals i do let in are from crosses. (for some reason Chiellini just doesnt quite do the job for me as i would like in this department, but he is still a beast nonetheless).
one more thing, if you’re still worried about 3 at the back remember, the 2 CDMs provide an EXCELLENT cover for them and will do good at supporting the attack as well. so that’s essentially 5 defensive-minded players. PLUS your RM and LM will dominate the R and L flanks even if they have decent defensive stats (their defensive stats dont have to be spectacular). and they will also provide great width as well on the counter. i always look for their runs when on the attack, that way i can play a big through ball to them, and they will have the option of shooting or crossing it into one of my 2 ST’s. i’d say the RM and LM will really make a difference in this formation, as well as the CDM’s. at least one of your CDM’s should have a low-attack work rate so that he can sit back and play clean up duty (Pirlo), while your other CDM can wreak havoc on defense AND on offense (Vidal).
Hi ! I like your tutorials. I play all the time with Manchester City strong defense and counter attack. I used to play 4-5-1 (attacking) but I use now 5-2-1-2 which creates a strong wall and gives crazy counter attacks. Could you give me more tips on how to play with MCity and in what position should I use some of the players ? I like to play defense as I said and make fast counter attacks. Thanks !
Can’t help you there as never play with 5 at back so players would be different positions.
is there any tatctic that beats the 4-1-2-1-2
Formation or tactic? As we say 4-4-2 is strong against it.
what best formation for a belgium team?think i also use siverplayers
3-5-2 or 4-4-2
Piqué or Puyol
Pique
what is a good formation for counter attacks??
All of them.
4-3-3 or 4-1-2-1-2
i have a 3-5-2 Serie A hybrid squad. my CB’s are Ogbonna, Gamberini, Chiellini.. who is another CB i could use as a sub? i know there more great CB’s that wouldnt hurt my Chemistry, but none have quite the same pace and idk how low of a pace i wanna go…
i usually go back and forth between Division 1 & 2
4-5-1,4-2-3-1,4-3-3 or 4-3-1-2 OR any other formation i have about 110k to build a good bpl team what formation ?
We don’t use any of them in UT. Depends how you play FIFA?
hey, im making a brazil team with the moderate priced players ( neymar, robinho, hulk) and i was wondering would 3-4-3
If good at FIFA 3-4-3 is good. 3-5-2 more powerful overall.
Hi there, i was wondering if you could tell me what formation should i use, I wanted a pacey team that makes space for a through ball. thanks 😀
Depends on your style of play more than anything. Passing? Counter attack?
Thanks Barca for making a new blog and actually looking at what people have to say 😛 Could you just give me a difference between 4-2-3-1 and 4-2-2-2 and that’d be enough for now.
Im making a 433 formation but i dont know wich league to pick which one is the best leauge
German
Hi. Could you please help me with an advice for créate a BPL team?
Actually I have two teams: A BBVA (4-1-2-1-2) and a Serie A (4-2-3-1)
For the BPL team I’m not sure about the better formation. I play with fast passing and searching the better time for shoot.
For the positions I gonna buy this players:
GK: Lloris,
LB: A. Cole, CB: Koscielny IF / kompany, RB: Maicon
CDM: Tioté (and Yaya Toure, if the formation requires two)
CAM: Nasri and silva (if the formation put them on the wings), or Luis Suarez, if the formation put them on the center.
Wings: Bale and Valencia
CF: Luis Suarez
ST: Agüero (and Tevez, if the formation requires two)
Help me please, and thank you
Writing a new blog on which players to use in formations.
Which formation’s better especially with this squad, 4-2-2-2- or 4-2-3-1 because there similar with some differences.
Also in this squad tell me which one to have.
Marchetti
Lichtsteiner or Abate? Chiellini Ogbonna Paulo De Ceglie or Armero?
Vidal Marchisio (Should I swap Vidal for De Rossi?)
Hamsik or Snieder Boateng.
Miccoli CF or ST depending on formation then Cavani.
Going to write a new blog on best player types for positions. Everyone keeps asking.
Hey, whats a goof formation defensively and attacking wise? Maybe a defense that can stop counter attacks?
No defence stops counter attacks EA coded the game badly.
i run a 3-5-2 Serie A hybrid. what kind of work rates do i want with my front 2 strikers? and who would you recommend??
right now i have Hamsik as my CAM and Jovetic and Matri as my ST’s.
I’ve recently got SIF Reus and I can’t figure out a way to outperform with him .. I use 4321 with SIF Reus, Gomez,SIF Kuba in front and yaya Toure , Bastian Schw and IF Gotze in mid .. My problem is I face lots of difficulties in creating chances ! Do you have any idea ?
4-3-2-1 is a very fast way to play do you play quick balls? Play a pass to a winger and then do a 1-2 with the midfielder so the winger runs up the wing waiting for ball through.
hi i need help with formation for Denamrk team :
its default 4-2-3-1
but i have few good players like ( aggerCB-Kjaer CB-Kivest CDM-EriksenCAM-BendtnerST-Fischer LW-Dehli LM) thats all i think any formation based on your ecspirense ?? soory for bad english 🙁
We always use 2 strikers so try a 3-5-2 or 4-1-2-1-2
I currently have a bpl squad (4 2 3 1) and liga bbva sqaud (4 3 3) the Bpl squad can be sold for 70k or mote while my liga bbva squad is 30k i am thinking of selling the Bpl squad and building my liga bbva squad and i think i can buy more better players in there because in liga bbva they are quite good and cheap players so whats your choice? thanks 🙂
We only use formations with 2 strikers so depends if you want to copy us 🙂
Hello iam currently using 3421 formation but i can never score cuz my players never run or anything i got
Torres if Bale IF Pedro IF
Hazard nasri silva mata if
Mbia Vermaeln Kompany
any tips what i should do or how i should play
Change your tactic to offensive. After game kicks off press right on d pad twice.
I use 4-2-3-1 formation i want to put Nani as a CAM but i dont now how should i put him as a LM or try this RF-CF-CAM this is my squad at the moment.I am thinking of putting Nani instead of Taraabt.
—————————-Reina———————-
—Sagna—–Vermaelen—-Kaboul—-Cole—–
—————–Fellaini——-Tiote—————–
–Taraabt————Podolski(CF)——–Nasri–
——————–Remy OR Ballotelli————
Play Nani where Taraabt or Nasri are he will be fine.
Im currently using a 4-3-1-2 bpl with one player from BBVA. My team is;
Suarez Aguero
David Silva
Bale Nasri Cazorla Di maria
Kaboul Kompany Vermealen
Hart
I like the players I have but wouldnt mind changing a few, could you possibly suggest an alternative formation and some other players I could use. I have a spare 80k or so. I just seem to leak goals and although I score a fair few, I have to score an excessive amount to out score the opposition, any help would be greatly appreciated, thankyou
Your players suggest you are using 3-4-1-2 not 4-3-1-2? The 3 need to be better ball winners like Bale. Basically DiMaria, Nasri and Cazorla are no good in the 4 of a 3-4-1-2
I have a bpp team with nasri, remy , Ramires, balotelli and other good players but I struggle with them I use 442 formation and still lose before i was really good and won but now for some reason i dont win as much as before i am thinking of making a brazil team and selling the Bpl team but I am afraid that I will struggle with that as well and regret it after and might not be able to get the Bpl team bak if I don’t like the Brazilian team and lose money.
FIFA 13 is harder as the matchmaking puts you against players of a similar level. You have to improve your game which is never easy. Learn new ways to play and skill. Harder still in FIFA13 because of contain and counter attack all the time.
What’s a good formation for heading? thanks.
4-4-2 and 4-1-2-1-2 as you need the wingers and 2 strikers usually.
I use 433 but i am like 2-0 up and then suddenly 2-2 or 3-2 to opposition this is my squad:
Riena
Richards Mbia Vermaelen Cole
Nasri Tiote Ramires
Walcott Remy (QPR) Young
_____________________________
and my customs tactics dont save if i change chance creation to organised in UT even though i made them in EA offline match and then saved it and tryed to play with TOTW and then quited but still its Free Form. Please help
We would replace Vermaelen with Kaboul from Spurs. Custom formations don’t save in UT. How EA made it this year.
What should I need I’m currently using 4-2-31 who do I need to buy in the bench
Balotelli
Hazard. Neymar. Bale
Lucas. Gotze
Marcelo. Hummels. Ogbonna. Rafael
Neuer
We wouldn’t use Lucas and Gotze as CDM? Would put Ramires in there from Chelsea. And Fellaini or YY Toure.
* spurs – shakhtar – man u – Juve
Hello there. I am currently using a 433 with villa benzema di maria up front. In the midfield I have fabregas xabi and ozil. My backs are alba pepe miranda and periera with Casillas in goal. I am liking the offensive slower build up style, but when I lose posession I am getting counter attacked out the ass. My defenders continue to get overwhelmed with attackers while the rest of my team trails behind. I have given up countless goals and would like some advice on what to do. Go to a 4321 or what? Thanks
Its how FIFA13 is. You have to set tactics to defensive and cross your fingers. Try switching to a defender quick and just running him back towards goal before the counter starts.
I’m having some trouble winning games, probably because I’m too busy experimenting with formations, which leaves me with bad Chem. I have two issues what players do I want for my main team and what formation to use. I have aguero & Messi, tevez, nasri toure & Silva, (4312) but don’t know what defense to use. I currently have chiellini barzagli and buffon, but I wonder if Ramos and pique would be better along with casillas. Coins are not an issue
Brazilian/Italian defence with Thiago Silva and Chiellini. Add Buffon behind.
Hey. Could u please give me a good team setup with italy. Im constantly matched against brasil. I find italy to be very slow especially midfield. If u have a good formation and tactic i should use please fill me in. Players to use also. Thanks
4-2-3-1 Balotelli on his own. Fast strikers behind him.
which formation is better 5212 or 5221 for a hybrid
5-2-1-2
Im using a 433 and want another good CB
Right now i got
Bale Remy Hulk
Carzola Toure Gerrard
Cole Kaboul Kompany Maicon
Which is formattion is good for bpl 433 or 4231 or other one pls help
All of them depending on how you play the game. Formations are about you and how you play. Then you get the players which work best for your game.
I’m using 433, Hazard – Aguero – Walcott , Nasri – yaya toure – David Silva and Clichy – kompany – david luiz – johnson, but i keep losing however I’m always the first one to make a goal ..
4-3-3 is a bad formation unless all 3 of the CM are strong and fast and can win the ball and also pass. So you would need to use Ramires, YY Toure, Fellaini, maybe Tiote.
Hi nice tutorial. When I first playes PES 01,02 and 03 I developped my style of football which astonishingly lookes like FC BArcelona style, using obviously 4-3-3. When I set my form to attack, all my players move to the attacking area, and when I get caught in counter attck, my defenders stuck in the midfield. How to get rid of that?
Have to set tactic to defensive as soon as lose ball.
is this a good 433 team GK-Hart RB Maicon CB Vidic,Kompany LB Clichy CM Nasri,YayaToure,DavidSilva RW Ben Arfa LW Bale ST Aguero?
Yes
Hi,
Right now I’m using the 433 formation and I love it but I want another striker slot.
Current team:
Bale- aguero- johnson
Cazorla- toure- mata
Fabio- david luiz- kompany- sagna
I really like it but I want to add balotelli in there too. The three main players I want to keep and be quite active are bale, aguero, and balotelli. What formation/setup should I use?
4-1-2-1-2
Bale LM
Aguero and Balo ST
422, I run a 422 with Balo and Mayuka/Aguero at ST. LM Bale; CM Gerrard; CM Rooney; RM Valencia.
You’ll love the 422 with a setup like this!
Hi,
I have a bet with a friend and whoever wins has to buy the other fifa 14. I usually play with chelsea and some with juventus but my friend plays with brazil pretty much every game. Since we have played so much he knows how i like to play and I know how he plays. he likes to run a 4-3-3 with an attacking mid and just needed some advice on which teams would be best against this formation.
Thanks
Brazil, Chelsea, Madrid all strong teams and best on game. Against 4-3-3 we would use 4-1-2-1-2 but if he is better than you maybe 4-5-1.
Hey there,
First off all i want to thank you for all the great fifa tips its helping me alot.
Ive been struggling alot with formations on fifa ut i came to the conclusion that 352 was the best in fifa 12 after trying so many formations now i love the 41212 i almost win every game with my 50k team top players are young Reina ramires
But ive also got a 800k team starting
Cassilas alba Ramos Pepe lahm toure bale robben Rooney aguero v persie
But for some reason i keep struggling hard vs sh#t teams robben couldnt outrun puyol the other day
What could this be is it because they probably go ultra def or ?
Do they have high morale and fitness? And maybe your opponent has Ultra defensive and counter attack and pressing?
Yep morale high fitness never lower then 85 ive been just checkin what ive been doing wrong but i just get unlucky with balls bouncing off straight in there feet after a shot or a bad 1 2 really starting to feel like i should try different formation what would you suggest assuming your opponent plays ultra def & counter attack & high pressure ?
its called momentum/ handicap vs weaker teams and its pathetic i make a basic team rapes everyone use my best team falcao xavi modric fabregas puyol xavi inform busquets etc and they play like a 50 year old heskey.
Hi I wanted to make a Seria A team, and was wondering which formation would fit my playstyle the best? I like going down the wings and crossing in and sometimes the occasional down the middle play. I like pacey defenders and a strong midfield. Do let me know. Thanks!
4-1-2-1-2 or 4-4-2. Lots prefer 3-5-2 but we don’t
Any other formation suggestions? And why those formations? May I ask?
To win more and have players in better position on pitch. Try them all your style of play might like 4-3-3?
is 4-3-2-1 a good formation?
Don’t like it for our possession style. If you play fast long balls you might like it.
I run a 4-3-3 with
Gervinho-Torres/Tevez-Ben Arfa
Cazorla-Toure-Ramires
Cole-Lescott-Koscielny-Sagna
2 things:
1-I’m looking to get either Nasri or Mata for my midfield. Which one do you recommend? Nasri would do really well for my chemistry if I stick him where Ramires, by I’m concerned about his low defensive work rate. Do you think this would be a problem? Caus mata has med/med work rates…
2- for my midfield what are your thoughts if I put 2 defensive minded midfielders on the left and right with one attack-minded in the middle? Such as: Ramires/Tiote-Nasri/Mata-Toure
More concerned about your CBs. Don’t like either. The middle CM should be the tackler.
What do you guys think is the best formation for Tottenham?
4-5-1
Hello fifaaddicition,
I’ve got a problem with my formation on ultimate team. In the beginning I won everything, but after many succesfull games I keep losing everything. I’m playing 4-3-3: Young – Suarez – Jesus Navas
David Silva – Ramires – Nasri
Clichy – Vertonghen – Vermaelen – Richards
The biggest problem is my defending, every attacking movement from the opponent is a goal. I’m thinking about another formation, but i’m afraid that i make the wrong choice. Most of my attacks are cross passes, using skills or counter attacks. Which formation do you prefer relating to my defending problem and my way of scoring goals?
(Sorry for my English. I’m dutch)
Your central defenders are too slow.
both cb have high attacking wr
this website was very useful great formations, you should make videos of these on youtube;’D
hey, i have read ur formation tactics nd they r awesome, but i gotta problem. i really want to try out hazard so i put him in a 4-3-3 with yaya toure in centre of midfield, but i am having alot of defensive problems. is there another good formation i can use but i need hazard as a Left winger or a LF. thanks
Just put him as a Cam he will be just fine! Check our Chemistry page in Ultimate Team section.
i use a 4-3-3. i generally like to play the possession game and use a lot of standard passing and through balls, with the occasional lobbed through ball as well…
i’ve got Malouda on the LW (for chemistry purposes) but i’ll also use Gervinho on the LW as well if i want to add more pace to my game because a lot of times i do find myself moving the ball quickly up the field in order to counter my opponent. so i pretty much play a mix of quick-attacking and slow build-up throughout the game…
right now i can’t decide which central CM (defensive-minded) to use. my defending isn’t great and i need someone who can intercept those passes and cover my back 4 well.
i start with Ramires as the center with Cabaye to his left and Oscar to his right, as Ramires has a high work rate for both Att and Def. i also have Tiote (a great player for this position i think) but i dont start him there mainly because of chemistry.
i don’t know if i should buy Fellaini and use him there, or save up and buy Yaya Toure?
neither Fellaini nor Yaya will give me much green for my chemistry as my starters are mainly split between French & Brazilians and Chelsea & Arsenal players.
thoughts?
Fellaini and Toure are best.
Whats formation can be used as an antidote for 4-2-3-1 ??
please tell me and if u are using custom tactics, please share with me
thanks!!
4-5-1 would maybe do it. More about your style of play and players.
wow. you really did a nice job! and also helped me alot.
I really thankyou for this awsome project, but as I’ve played many formations to choose the best one,
I came to the conclusion that 442 and 4231 fit me the best…
but it is really hard to choose between those two.
could you give me some advice?
or choose the better one?(such like the one which is well made in fifa13, or the better one to use when I become a skilled user?)
Not really as you prefer different formations to us so have a different style.
whos the best players in your opinion to put at CF and both CAM positions in a 4231 EPL formation
Hey, nice page helps a lot, but the 3421 is describing a 451 formation
im playing 4-5-1 in ultimate team.
But how do i set to organise chance creation in fut?
isn’t that impossible?
what formation is best to play the counter attack? 1-2s kind of play?
Never play counter attack so no idea.
How do set costum tactis for MY ULTIMITE TEAM i did it on eas fc match day but i dont think it works in fut PLEASE HELP
Check custom tactics page. If you mean custom formations page they don’t save on Ultimate team as it says on customs formation page.
20legend agree with u absolutly its not even that good formation its boring you cant pass well or make chances probably worst formarion iv used
I use 4-1-2-1-2 I don’t score a lot goals I got Balotelli, Torres, Cazorla,Adam Johnson,Ashley young, Agger , Kaboul, Enrique , walker It’s a good team but I can’t win a lot or score chemistry is 89 plz help
Make sure player morale is very high and Chemistry of team is 95 or higher.
Try a formation called ‘total football’. its got 2 central defenders with a lwb and rwb quite high up the field. they help with creating scoring opportunities. Just in front of the 2 CB’s you have a CDM. I have Marco Verratti, very good. Gabriel is also good! In front of the CDM I have a LCM + RCM. Up front I have a LAM + RAM and 1 striker. The LAM + RAM must be quite central and very close behind the striker. It helps if you like close passing, through balls and long shots. its essentially a 2-3-2-3 formation. I have M.Gotze, M.Ozil and El Sharaawy up front. Try it and let me know what you think. Very important, when you set up the custom team tactis, make sure all your midfileders and defenders fall back when the opposition counter attack or else you will be left wanting! enjoy
Hi i need help i have problems to do goals so i wonder which formation do i need to play to get a good defence and do alot of goals thanks guys and i love counter attacks 😀
Hello B4RCA , Here is the way I play: I think Im a very good player. I have played a lot of soccer games and I almost win all the games against my friends, playing against the CPU is kind of tough for me I dont know why, I manage myself against professional but in World Class the thing goes complicated..
Im very good building up score opportunities, Very good passing the ball and dominating it, Very patience when Im trying to open spaces to make good score opportunities, I like to make a lot of pressure against my opponents, especially at the beggining of the match…. My weak point a little bit is defending, sometimes is easy to the opponent to pass over my defenders , and I suffer a lot in a counter offense, because usually their forwards finds themselves with all the space to just run and score on my goal… What could be the best formation for me that I could try? I want to improve more my skills!!! Thank you very much!!!
Great guide. I just can’t settle on a formation. I loved 3-5-2 in Fifa 12 but it sucks in 13 IMO. I used 4-2-2-2 for a long time but eventually got frustrated at the lack of chance creation. What would you recommend? I play fast breaks with through balls and LOVE long shots. Any Ideas?
Does anyone know whats the best formation for counter attack please
Thanks
Any with 2 strikers and lots of midfielders.
5 3 11 ! all my goals are from counter attack and i am 1 of the best players.( but i created my formation and i create my custom tactic too
Which formation is best for a liga bbva side, 442 or 433???
4-4-2
FORMATION HELP ANYONE!! my style of play is i like to get down the wings and cross but i like cutting in as well as playing through the middle. i do 1 – 2 passes and over head through balls but id like a solid back with CDM or even without one as long as its solid. I am tend to attack more then patient build up or counter attack. Thank you!
Is 4-3-3 good formation i dont now why i cant win alot games with 4-1-2-1-2 any suggestions?
Try 4-4-2 or 4-5-1. Maybe you aren’t strong at defending? Check our tutorial pages and set up a custom tactic. Also make sure defenders are on list provided for better chance.
just wanted to say, 41212 has ruined me lol i find it really hard to use because there is a massive gap in the middle of the pitch and theres not enough options. i like to pass pass pass.
a lot of teams using it however and are using it by lobbing lots of long balls over the defence and 2 pacey strikers running onto them. SOOO BORING LOL
still think 352 is better at the moment. as long as u got 3 quick DCs and set ur tactics right 🙂
Which is the best formation?
Says on the page 4-1-2-1-2 but difficult to beat 4-5-1 and 4-4-2 using it. You need to know your players and have tactics set up for your style of play.
what of the 4-2-4 formation
Not available in all modes but useful in head to head if needing to attack late in game.
3 4 3 work magic 2 cdm 2 rm an lm and rf and lf and st
gone back to 352 my fave !!!!!! cant handle only 1 striker lol and hate the fact r&l backs always forget to defend lol
Hey man.
What formation would you suggest for a good Brasilver side?
At the start i enjoyed 4-2-3-1 but after a while felt it was very limited as well the two CM despite picking them out carefully were as high in attack as my ST which left a big gap in midfield when counter attacking happened. I am now using 5-2-2-1 and i know that formation annoys most people but its solid and great attacking in it and can destroy an opponent in seconds.
What formation is the best: 4-4-2, 4-1-2-1-2, 4-5-1, 3-5-2, 4-3-3, 4-3-2-1?
Bet everyone loves this attempt to find out. Its coming very soon look out for tweets.
in the 4231 formation would you think the striker position is better suited to a small pacey player like aguero or a big target man like gomez ????
Depends on your style of play not the formation. Big strikers with strength to bring the CAMs into play or CAMs playing thru balls for fast striker? Or both? EG buy Doumbia 😉
Hey Barca, I have a 41212 BPL squad that’s pretty good (Kompany, Ballotelli, Nasri, etc.). The problem is that having a substitute for each position is extremely expensive. What should I do?
Use the players recommended in the bargain player Ultimate Team section.
When will you announce the results of your testing — i.e., what formation you’ve found the best this year?
i think hes keeping it to himself …..
Ha, its more complicated than you could guess. And its almost here!!
Great! Looking forward to it. Could you provide a rough estimate as to when you’ll announce the results? Are we talking a day or two, or closer to a week, or longer? (Not looking for an exact day, just a rough idea).
so whats the best formation then B4RCA????? or are you keeping it a secret ????? lol
hey what are your camera angle settings you use in the video as im really hating mine. at the mo fifa13 is not my friend seasons play much slower than career and its just not fun anymore.
hi barca when r u going to post the best formation ?? can u tell me which one is it?
Can u please write up a guide for fifa 13 new formations like 4-3-3 false nine and 4-4-2 diamond?
Thanks
All of the formations are being edited now we have tested them all. Look out for the twitter update saying when done.
Hi Barca, in a manual tournament, i use the 3133 Barca style with: Piszchez – Dante – Ogbonna / Tiotè / Iniesta – Tevez – Marcelo / Sterling – Falcao – Mata. I Have already Darren Fletcher and Douglas Teixera between good reserves. I love how they move forwards. But, with this team, do you have some suggestion to alternative play? thanks!
We always suggest the formation you are comfortable with for your style. Sounds like you have this already. Just make sure custom tactics are set to your way of playing.
Hey barca do u know which its da best formation yet?
We know more about them all now. Just have to write it all up. Was lots of testing.
any hints on which one is it ??lol
Still changing this in draft at moment.
Hey.
I was just wondering which formation is best for fifa 13 UT.
In fifa 12 i used 352 but now in fifa 13 i find that i get destroyed down the wings.
Coming soon have finished testing now.
Ok thanks for the reply.
Can’t wait lol.
Barca, what’s up man?! I always concede header goals from crosses and corner kicks. Also, the other team is ALWAYS slicing through my defense like a hot knife through butter! I’m normally playing with PSG and I’m normally using the 4-2-3-1 formation, high pressure and heavy defense settings. I can’t seem to stop goals at all! Any suggestions???????? I’m a relatively new player and I’m struggling so much.
Check tutorials on defending and heading hopefully will help you. Take high pressure off and use counter attack for a bit.
Thanks so much, I’m definitely going to try that out. I was just on Google searching different things and this page came up, you’re definitely helpful. Take care.
I play with Real Madrid the new 433 ( false 9 ) it works good i think. What dod you think about 3-5-2 with Real Madrid? Or Standard 4231. But standard will be with ROM an LOM an COM. Maybe to offense?
Real Madrid should be good in all formations if you are a good FIFA player.
Hi barca , i am thinking of a BBVA squad. I have the money to buy the best BBVA, except ronaldo and messi. I like to cut in with my wingers and use the L1 button with my ST. Wich formation do you think i would use? thanks:)
Probably 4-3-3 if you are good player and strong midfielders. Or 4-3-2-1.
Ive tried every formation and I dont know which one to use.. Ive tried 4-3-3 4-5-1 and I really wanna try to strikers. But i cross lots my key component to my game whats a perfect formation for that ?
4-1-2-1-2 or 4-4-2 for crossing styles.
I have got 2 ST’s and 2 CF’s. I am planning on either making both CF’s to CAM’s and play 4-2-2-2, or make both CF’s to CAM’s AND make 1 ST to CF and play 4-2-3-1. Its BPL. Help me please!
Depends who they are and which formation you prefer. Have to be very good at FIFA to use 4-2-2-2 for example.
Hey barca I wanted to ask u which its the best formation dat suits my style of play I play with real madrid ..I play just like them in real life as soon as I get the ball I want to get to my opponents goal as soon as possible …I don’t cross a lot maybe once a game ..I like to do a lot of one two passes n through balls …on da defense I like to use 2 nd man press ..I want my players to be agrresive dat means I have to put 100 aggression n 100 in pressure?? .. again txs a lot for ur help n time 🙂
I’ve been using 4-2-3-1 in ultimate team, but I’ve started to struggle in the top divisions. I tend to counter attack but a lot of people are using contain so my ST is being marked out of the game and invariably my CF ends up crowded out.
Would a switch to 4-2-2-2 be worthwhile?
You need to try all formations but look out for new guides coming soon.
hiya i have been saving all my coins and currently have enough to buy a whole team of best players in EPL but im not sure what formation would work best on FUT now i have tried 4231 41212 352 and they all seem the same to tell you the truth i like switching in game if i find it hard and most the time it works so what im asking is im thinking of making a team to use all formations and use with subs but shall i buy the best players for there pos or shall i build a team with bright green lines so when i do switch ingame formation chem will still be 100%
Wait for our new updates on chemistry and formations. Coming soon.
for me the best formation is 4-3-3 defense. I like play with brazil, with ramires and maicon as CDM and oscar as CM. Since I use this tactic, I won 25 games, 2 lost and 3 draws in 1ª division head to head season.
i use the 5-2-2-1. i don’t find if hard to work up the mid field, but i have a good team. i play xabi alonso at RCM, and cesc fabregas at LCM. i use david cilla at LF, and either alexis sanchez or jesus navas at RF. for ST i use fernando llorente.
on defense i don’t have good wing backs yet but the center 3 are puyol at RCB, pique at CB, and mascherano at LCB.
i love this formation the best out of everything. with good CMs you can pass all day, and it helps that fabregas has a good long shot too.
why don’t you play with a 3 or 3.5 Start team we’ll see how good you are. It’s easy to play and win with 4.5 & 5 star teams.
Hi
I don’t know what fortmation to use on FUT13. Tried with a 4231 because that worked well in online seasons but not on FUT!!
I like playing posession and slow build up. But sometimes i also like playing on counter and fast play. I like using wingers. Don’t want to make a team on FUT before i am absolutely sure about the formation! Currently using 5221 in online seasons and works pretty good. Please give me some advise.
To play possession football that is all about the tactics not the formation. Look on the tactics page.
i did what you said which was put all same league (premier league) players in squad with chemistry of 98 i use 4-4-1-1 and its ok but still think i could do better any suggestions. MANY THANKS.
Best formation to use for a possession (short quick passing) based team with two good CAM’s (Gotze and Eriksen)?
Squad: Forlan, Rossi, clint dempsey, giggs, Gareth Barry, Lucas lieva,garay, antori, Pablo zabeleta, Abidal, szcjezny (gk)………………….I use 4-1-2-1-2 or 3-5-2 or 4-2-3-1. with the formation of 4231 I get chemistry of 68 while with other 2 I get from 30 to 40 chemistry. I don’t seem to be doing well with any of these fomation this please help. Thanks
4-1-2-1-2 is better for weaker teams. Your problem is your chemistry is so low (needs to be around 90). Pick a league and only use players from it for now. Keep selling and buying your players to make coins. Also check out our bargain players section which will help you pick better players.
i guess the best formation will be 4321, 4231, 352 or 433.
my question is what is the best formation for a brasilver squad on ltimate team because i have the likes of wallyson, kelvin, leite, and azevado and many more.
so what is the best formation
sorry for some spelling mistakes
You need to look at what positions your players can play in. To maximise the chemistry. Then it depends on how you play the game? Slow build up? Posession? Quick counter attack? Updating all these above.
HeY I need help finding a good cheap cam in manager mode. Im playing as man u with rooney, welbeck and kagawa all sold but I have bought wilshere gundogan and reus
If you have sold them three must have lots of money to spend?? So not sure what you mean by cheap. Try Taarabt at QPR.
Thanks for your help man….I took everything on board,also read earlier posts on other people’s formations,I’m now killing it…3 promotions back to back up to five and the juggernaught keeps going,after a bit of persiverance i have been using Madrid with 4321…ridiculous!!!counter attacking pace and bodies in the box,I’ve only lost on the games where people have been using the YouTube lag lol.this site is immense!
What date do you think you will have the results on the best formations.
Need to test over around 20 games each formation. So going to be another week yet.
4-3-1-2 is great because if u have a good defence you can pile everything at the opponent and the cf is always in space
Players:
Forlan
FREI
Barnetta
Shaqiri
Von Bergen
Djourou
Benaglio
And others.
What I need is a good attack. My players are pretty slow and I feel like I can’t go past their defense. I defend pretty well. What fast/good shot/relatively cheap players could I get and what is the best formation for me?
Formations haven’t all been tested yet. Players their is a bargain page in Ultimate team section have a look through.
what is ur favourite formation
Not decided yet still testing them all.
Loving the site,but find it hard to love FIFA at the mo..I keep getting owned,was good at 12,but lofted through balls and over aggressive opposition have made it hard for me to string a few wins together. How do people always manage to intercept those passes and play aggressive football by always crowding my players and then always manage to play a sneaky through ball…all the defences I play against are always on top if me before I even have a chance to do anything,every through ball is intercepted every striker is bullied. I’ve tried everything,teams,formations tactics….please help!!!thankyou
Its in the formation and tactics we have tried to explain in the pages. Read both again carefully on how they add pressure. People intercept by changing the player they are defending with so it is the player away from the ball. Also explained in defending section.
Best formation is 4-2-3-1 as long as the ST has good heading and the CF and CAM’s have decent pace.
We still testing, found 4-2-3-1 good but currently have a favourite. Will reveal all when tested more.
hi barca please help me i need best formation for madrid
Madrid should be good with any formation. Try 4-3-2-1 with Ronaldo Benzema and Di Maria.
What do you think would be a good formation to play using ground pass good playmakers air balls?I used to use 4-3-1-2 but it was too narrow,
Not quite sure what you mean. Ground passing with playmaker or airballs or both? Passing play is more about the players and custom tactics not formation. https://fifaaddiction.com/tutorials/tactics
What formations are you finding effective on fifa 13?
I didn’t like the 4-1-2-1-2 on fifa 12 but enjoying it on this. What do you think about the 4-3-2-1?
Still testing them all. So many factors influence them. Take a week or two before new updates giving views on all formations and tactics.
Hi, iam a fairly good FIFA player with Xbox360. I win 8/10 games in 13 in World Class. I prefer Barcelona 4-3-3 and can keep possession all day long. But as I lose possession, the computer launches counter attacks with long balls, and I find my CBs Piqué and Puyol behind the striker and hence conced goals. I tried by decreasing my defence pressure as really “deep” (under 20) and aggression to “contain” but same result. Please help
If you win 8/10 games I don’t really see your issue? Have you set their attacking and defending workrates in a custom formation? – https://fifaaddiction.com/tutorials/fifa-custom-formations
Hey nice site, you are talking about organised formation and free attacking formation, how can you change this? im playing ultimate team and i dont seem to find that option, to change “organised” or “free attacking”
any help?
regards kim
The organised and free attacking are in the custom tactics area. – https://fifaaddiction.com/tutorials/tactics
thanks alot! this changes everything lol
hey , just wondering what the best formation for a skiller team would be? im using alot of high 70 players to low 80s with 5* skills? formation help would be appreciated as 3-4-1-2 doesnt seem to be working as i get let down when my opponent plays long balls over my defenders.
For skillers need formations with wingers or LF/RF as lots of the 5* skillers play in these positions.
thanks but yeah i’ve got that part down and i already have about all the 5* skillers i need im just not sure on the exact formation, 3 at the back didnt work well so maybe a 4-?-?-? formation would be better, something where they will make runs often and find space for volleys etc. 🙂 help appreciated
Used to use 352 in FIFA 12 and was great with it, but found gameplay changes have made it bad. Any recommendations for someone who was good with that formation?
Still testing all formations as said in page above. We used 3-5-2 in 12 but found it not to work well in 13 for us. Wingers get past it too easily.
Any further in regards to formations? I’ve tried a lot of them now and so far I’ve had ‘better’ results with 4231 and 442.
I say better because I suck this year compared to last year, I was dominant last year with 500 wins t 100 losses (approx) this year I lose as many as i win! Any ideas as to what the change is that is effecting so many people? I’ve seen a lot of posts/ threads on forums re skilled players sucking this year!
Cheers
FIFA 13 is more complex than 12. So it needs a combination of things. Need to know your style of play. Find the players which suit it. Know everything about your players. Then find a formation which works for you and them. Then sort tactics on top of that too. We need to test all these way more yet.
Thanks for the reply mate,
I’ve been trying to analyse my play style and I rarely use lobbed passes or through balls, I do a lot of standard ‘X’ passes (PS3). I find my possession is normally around the 60% mark.
I like my long shots, I rarely shoot inside the box, normally on the edge/ 5 yards from box.
Every so often I take the ball out wide and cross it in but that is only if I’m struggling with the oppositions CB’s.
I always seem to do well with ST’s like Cisse (QPR), Jovetic etc.
I’m not a fan of pace whoring… I often find if i try a pace team out after rage selling lol… the players don’t seem that quick and the likes of Wellington cant outpace Skrtel!!>>!>!?? (Why is that lol!?)
Anyway… i haven’t done custom tactics this year as I heard they were not working/ saving???
I’m playing defensive setting at the mo to stop my CB’s running all over the place off the ball!
Any suggestions formation wise for me then/ tips that i’m missing out?
Thanks mate,
Olly
Going to take as a while to test them all but there is new stuff coming for tactics and formations 🙂
What is the best formation to use in FIFA 13 Online Seasons for a guy who loves quick attacking, and over the top balls to wingers, loves to cross as well.
Thanks in advance!
Still testing all formations not found a favourite yet. Will update in week or two.
i need to beat some one with 4-1-2-1-2 and my 2 players are best at attacking can you tell me the two suitable formations please?
Still testing all the formations in FIFA 13. Will be a couple of weeks before decide which are best.
I love attacking! and am currently using 4-2-3-1 but i dont seem to be getting very many runs with my players.. i was wondering what a good formation is for give and go’s and through balls! would 3-5-2 suit that style of plaY??
It actually all depends on the players. Some have high attacking work rate. Some low. Big section coming on that soon as important in FIFA. The custom formations and tactics sections currently give you a hint of where the settings are however if you can’t wait.
hi i need some help im a decent Fifa player but i find myself struggling against the 352 formation. it seems that there are so many midfielders and i cant even get the ball out of my half. i try to utilise the left and ring wings however they play rightback and left backs in the 2 wide cb postions so i cant even outpace them. got any formations that can counter 352?
4-5-1 usually does a good job against it. In head to head can save custom formations which help but you can’t save these in UT. Not sure if broken or just removed on purpose.
Hi – nice site. I played many formations with different teams last year in UT and was not happy with 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 online. I liked 3-5-2 so was going g to use that this year……BUT – there are so few CBs with pace and they cost a fortune and I don’t play enough to pay for them.
With slower defenders this is going to be poor?
With the new runs that AI makes – is 4 at the back the sensible thing?
Used 3-5-2 last year and found this year it is too easy to score against using wingers. Still testing all formations so not settled on 1 yet. Advice check them all out and give them a few games each. When we find one preferred will tweet it out.
I’m fairly new to fifa and I would like to know what you guys recommend. My play style is thrum the middle I’m lind of a weak player thru the outsides I find it hard to defend at times when I use the 4-2-1-2 but I like the attacking style it brings. Is there another balanced formation you guys recommend? Thanks
Can’t really say at moment as stil getting used to the game and the tactics for FIFA13. Found 4-1-2-1-2 a bit different to 12 ue to attacking and defensive intelligence so having to test them all.
I play a custom version of the 4 2 3 1 (1), my wide CAMs are a bit deeper then the default. I have back for with low attack high defence work rate. CDM with high def mid attack and wide CAMs with high attack mid defence. I’m somewhat struggling to score enough goals, i defend reasonably well especially down the center of the pitch. Is the default with the very high wide CAM using a high attack and low defnce work rate a better balance or will it make me weak on the wings in defence or will i have enough cover?
I tend not too dominate possesstion, even when i win comfortably i likely have as much or less of the ball. I sometimes get on a streak of confident matches where i abuse the pace on the wing and play a low cross to the back post or cut back or whatever. i can’t seem to use the one-two ball down the middle to score often, which alot of players try to use. However, ive recently just not getting many options to score.
Any attacking but balanced formations which don’t rely heavily on monopolising the ball that you can recomend?
Formations are all about the person using them and the players they like to use. I always use 3-5-2 and switch to 4-3-1-2 if better opponent as it is harder to break down. 3-5-2 gives crazy attacking options for all styles of play but you need to be good at defending. 4-2-3-1 is a very defensive style tactic and really works best with lots of controlled short passing. Have you not tried 4-1-2-1-2?
How good do you have to be at defending to use the 3-5-2? How do you defend on the wing with it? You say you change to the 4-3-1-2 against better opponents how often is this?
I’ve used the 4 2 3 1 alot and found it more attacking then the 4-1-2-1-2. I can’t seem to create chances with the 4-1-2-1-2 against average opponents. I can’t seem to utilise having two strikers and the wide players are too deep! Whats the key to utilising the 4-1-2-1-2 I can’t seem to use the one to pass with the strikers to create chances!
Thanks for the previous reply!
What work rates and postioning do you use for the 3-5-2? Is this formation a bad idea against very gd opponents?
Sorry one last question!
Do you use the 3-5-2 for all star level teams or just the high level ones?
How do you use a 4-1-2-1-2 in online pro club play? I see other teams using it but it isn’t a formation I am able to select for my club team and I really with I was able to because I find myself doing best with that in all other fifa games but not I’m this years club play
We have used it in clubs is under 4-4-2 diamond.
I am selling my current team and making a premiership team but was wondering would you know what formation would be good for a premiership team.. my main thing would be fast wingers down the wing and whipping in crosses but sometimes go through the middle
I tend to play 4-2-3-1 or 4-1-2-1-2 but have a few isssues.
If a i try a 4-3-3 barca style or one with two cdm and one cam like porto or athletico madrid, if find attacking generally difficult, the wingers are very isolated from the midfield, and the striker from the wingers and i tend to fail to make opportunities and force passes to wingers for example and lose the ball! Any thoughts on what im doing wrong (I build up genrally quickly) and how to use the formation wisely.
With the 4-1-2-1-2 I find it offers gd cover defensively but keeping the ball difficult, the midfield players are wide apart( i use short passing tactics about 40). The wide players seem ineffective as well as they tend to be very deep and nullifies wing play! Any tips!
Thanks
Hard to put that down to anything other than your FIFA play generally. Look at our latest blog maybe worth a look?
Is the 4-3-1-2 or 4-1-2-1-2 the narrow version work well on fifa 12 or is it too narrow and too predictable against gd players?
Thanks again!
Formations all depend on your style and how you play FIFA. Of the top FIFA players lots use different formations.
I play on virgin gaming and ive made a lot of money using the 4-2-3-1 formation with Real Madrid. I got the tip from the #5 ranked player in the world, and I hardly lose with it, when I do lose its by a lucky goal such as a header. I find that the CDMs for real madrid do not get tired with this formation at the end of the match, maybe its just the players ratings (Xabi Alonso and Kaka), but I can definetlly vouch for this formation. Great job on the site mate, may I ask if you compete in tournaments competitively?
Yeah solid formation. Some of us use custom formations so can’t always use them in competitive tournaments. Also a lot of the big ones are ps3 and not allowed to use xbox style controllers like we use. Going on Virgin Gaming soon seen Japes and Nep do well from it.
Ive been reading over and over your formations and im finding it hard ro pick and was wondering if you can help me.
I play mostly wing play and cross the ball into the box to the strikers. I like attacking football which is bad as all my midfield would be pacy and attack and not the best at defending which leaves me leaving in stupid goals.
Any Help?? Thanks.
Probably suggest 4-1-2-1-2 as an overall balance for wing play to cross for 2 strikers. If CDM is strong and fast should give you good cover for defence. FIFA is more about improving on your weakest area. So if quite good at attacking but weak at defending concentrate on that. Play games on legendary offline and just practice defending. Use a much weaker team too. Read our page on defending to help https://fifaaddiction.com/tutorials/defending Play at least 50 games then go back to playing online and you will notice a big difference.
Might give 3-4-3 a go, btw love this site!
Cheers go for it 3-5-2 is good too. Tho we create custom formations to fox opponents now.
LOL 4-4-1 XD Otherwise nice work!
XD?
he means it’s suppose to be 4-5-1 not 4-4-1 lol
Actually, I think it’s supposed to be 4-4-1-1 instead of 4-4-1, as the CF is neither a midfielder nor a striker.
4-4-1 just means it’s a 4-4-1-1. He could have abbreviated some of the other ones too. If you think he didn’t understand what formation he was talking about, it would be an “lol”, but I’m guessing he knows more about FIFA than you do. Enough said, I think.
Actually was an error now amended 4-4-1-1 tho EA have changed some of the formations in FIFA 13 so need to update anyway.