With more teams playing 9v9 at Under 11 and Under 12, we take a look at the formations your side could play for this team size. This week we look at 2-1-2-1-2.
With more teams playing 9v9 at Under 11 and Under 12, we take a look at the formations your side could play for this team size. This week we look at 2-1-2-1-2
PROS: This is a very strong formation with diamonds in defence and a midfield directing the ball into the attack. It has a strong front two spearheading the attack and is strong defensively against teams that attack through the middle.
CONS: As it is focused in the middle of the pitch, movement is necessary to get width. It is weak defensively against a team with fast wingers.
With a double diamond at the back, it is strong centrally but leaves the team vulnerable to wing play. Defenders rely on help from the defensive midfielder in front to fill in if one player goes to close down the winger. It is in danger of being overrun in a counter attack if the midfield goes missing.
The midfield diamond controls the centre of the pitch – it is very difficult for opponents to get through the middle of the formation. There are definite roles for each member of the diamond and the wide players in the diamond must work hard to give the formation width to support the attackers and get back to create the defensive shape.
This formation is strong up front but it is heavily reliant on good movement and support play from the players behind. It is particularly effective when the wide midfield players support on the wings and play crosses into the box. The forwards have good support from behind, with the attacking midfielder creating a three man attack when they are in the penalty area.
It is very good for midfield movement, with players having to work hard to get wide support in front of them and funnel back to get into the strong diamond formation. It helps the defensive duo to build a good relationship for centre back play later in their development. Strikers have very good support in this formation and a lot of balls will come into them from the wings.
In a recent survey 89% of subscribers said Soccer Coach Weekly makes them more confident, 91% said Soccer Coach Weekly makes them a more effective coach and 93% said Soccer Coach Weekly makes them more inspired.
*includes 3 coaching manuals
Get Weekly Inspiration
All the latest techniques and approaches
Soccer Coach Weekly offers proven and easy to use soccer drills, coaching sessions, practice plans, small-sided games, warm-ups, training tips and advice.
We've been at the cutting edge of soccer coaching since we launched in 2007, creating resources for the grassroots youth coach, following best practice from around the world and insights from the professional game.