10/2023 Pattern of Play Attacking 4-3-3

Option 2: Three pass combination which requires good pass quality and timing of movement

1. The RF makes a run centrally, that is the trigger for the CDM to make the first pass
2. At the same time, the CM makes an angled run to the wide channel
3. As the RF receives his the ball, the CF then make a short run to be able to receive a pass
4. As the RF plays a firm ground pass to the CF, he immediately makes a run forward
5. The CF then lays-off a soft pass forward for the RF to meet on his run into the box.

Key Points:

1. The RF must try to offer a pass that the CF can play a one-touch pass with, if necessary,
2. The CM should remain wide as a secondary option in the game
3. The RF should arc his run, so he meets the ball facing the goal.

 

Option 3: Long-  A combination which starts from deep, because of longer passing distances one-touch may not and should not be an option in relation to good timing and movement.

1. CF makes an angled run into the half-space and that is the trigger for the CB to make the pass
2. The CF should be higher than the RF so there is room to lay-off the ball on his second touch
3. The RF receives the ball on his run inside the field at a comfortable distance from the CF
4. As the RF receives his pass that is the trigger for the LF to make his sprint forward.

Key Points

1. The LF’s role is key; he must sprint, not run. He must also aim to beat the offside trap as the ball is released from the RF for the third pass with perfect timing.
2. In the aim of using minimal touches, the trigger for the offside trap and final pass should be on the RF’s second touch, which is the final pass.
3. The LF must angle his run across the face of the full-back and behind the centre-back.
4. Meanwhile, the RF’s pass should pass through the gap between the two centre-backs.