If you're trying to sit deep and absorb stress from an opponent, go for the 5-4-1. It will not be fairly, but you may make points very tough for the opposing attack. The issue lies once you have the ball. You first must choose whether or not you need a regular number 9 who can hold the ball up and win the aerial duels, or go to get a speedier forward who can get in behind. Either way, they're going to have a lot to complete on their very own, so each of one's wide players and one of several central midfielders will help out. Select these players to have into the box for crosses around the instructions tab to provide the forward some help. If you're struggling for solutions in midfield, you are able to also get one of the center-backs (ideally the middle one) to join the attack. In case you are nonetheless struggling to break down the opposition, choose an attacking mentality.

FIFA Expert’s recommended work rates:
Right Wing Back – High Attacking / High Defensive
Left-Wing Back – High Attacking / High Defensive
Right CB – Low Attacking / High Defensive
Left CB – Low Attacking / High Defensive
Central CB – Low Attacking / Medium Defensive
Right Mid – High Attacking / Medium Defensive
Left Mid – High Attacking / Medium Defensive
Right CM – Medium Attacking / Medium Defensive
Left CM – Medium Attacking / Medium Defensive
Striker - High Attacking / Low Defensive

Strengths: Another one of the most solid of the 5 at the back formations in terms of defensive set-up and overall structure. This is largely down to the packed area in the central areas whilst also having x 2 players on either wing. If you have 2 quick CM’s with good stamina you can still pose opposition defenders lots of problems. Excellent for seeing out the latter stages of games.

Weaknesses: The wing areas and the lone ST are huge weaknesses of a formation set-up like this. You HAVE to play the right way (see below) for a formation to work like this. All you have to do is look at our diagram to see what we mean by exposed areas.

Key player/position: The two wide players are absolutely the most important in this one. They have to be able to provide quality from wide areas and provide crucial support to the lone ST.

Most suited style of play: A very rigid set-up allows for patient build-up in terms of passing with focus through the CM positions to allow runners from other areas to join in attacks so you don’t constantly lose possession.