Eleven players, 90 minutes, and an objective of outscoring the opponents to win the game. The game; football (soccer).
The tactical decision of player positioning is selected by the manager/coach of the team, and the most commonly used formation is that of the four-four-two (4-4-2). The 4-4-2 configuration has proved itself to be both balanced, and successful, which is why it remains an established and favoured system within modern football.
Divided into three sections, the 4-4-2 formation is comprised of four defenders, four midfielders and two forward players.
Defence;
Two central defenders and two full-backs (left and right). A line of four defenders with the aim of protecting their goalkeeper from the opposing team. At a given opportunity, the full-backs can move forward to support an attacking movement, leaving the two central defenders to maintain their main role in defense.
Playing four defenders at the back offers versatility to a team, due to the attacking options of having two full-backs who can operate up and down the left or right wings.
Midfield;
Two central midfielders and two wide-players (wingers). The two central midfielders operate in a supporting role, between the defensive third and the attacking third, while the two wide players provide the width. The two wide-players (left and right midfield) support both the two full-backs in defensive duties, and press forward down the wings.
One variation that has proved effective is that of the 'holding role.' The 4-4-2 system is adapted to what is referred to as a 'diamond' formation. A central midfielder that is more defensive-minded, playing directly in front of the back four, thus freeing the remaining central midfielder to support the two forward players.
Fowards;
Two attacking players (strikers) with the main role of overcoming the defenders and goalkeeper of the opposing team and finding the back of the net. The two strikers latch on to through-balls from the midfield, connect with crosses from the wide players, or even delay play by keeping hold of the ball, awaiting support from defense and midfield.
The 4-4-2 formation remains the most favoured system within British football, on merit, with the ten outfield players providing width and balance across the football pitch.
Due to the adaptability of the formation the team can adopt a defensive attitude, or push forward. Adopt a defensive mentality with a straight back four, with the cover of the two central midfielders, or use the attacking options of the full-backs in support of an attacking midfielder and the two forwards up-front.