The United States Men’s National team is still trying to learn a new style of soccer under new coach Jurgen Klinsmann. He favors the Dutch Total Football approach to the 4-3-3, meaning four defense, three midfielders, and three forwards. In the first games under Klinsmann it was easy to see that a lone striker was the new form for the USMNT. This is a formation not often seen anywhere in North America although Toronto in the MLS has tried to run the formation. Here is a breakdown of the 4-3-3.
This is a switch from the 4-4-2 that United States fan have seen at the big level and probably in youth leagues around the country. This tactic requires plenty of movement, thus fitness is highly important. The central midfielder fills a triangle with the other midfielders and center forward and could be the most pivotal player on the pitch needing to fill in behind adequately, distribute with confidence, and backtrack defensively.
The runs down the wing may be confusing for some as they see an overlap as limiting space for support from the back. In reality the system provides lanes in which a defender or midfielder may go past the forwards in a very close manner keeping the opposing defense very compact. The goal is to create a two man game that is tougher to defend and allows for easier lanes to get the ball into the box. Also a turnover in this system should be less threatening with the ball being near the corner flag.
Three midfielders may seem to be at a disadvantage against teams running a 4-4-2, but as the image above shows these midfielders stay compact creating their own park on the pitch. This allows the sidelines to be primarily handled by the forwards and defense. With the formation embracing movement it may seem as though there are five midfielders.
The defensive part of this formation can be tough for some to take as it can lead to counter attacks. With the recent problems with the United States back line, some fans may cringe. It is up to the coach to decide where to attack with the defense to get the ball back. Some clubs in the Dutch leagues have attempted to attack in their own offensive zone. Regardless, the set is designed for movement, quick reaction, and sound tactics. If the defense keeps their line it can be very difficult to create impressive runs.
There have been discussions of the lone striker as mentioned above, but in reality that is not the idea. It is not up to the center forward to create the opportunities. On the attack the left and right forward should press up to almost a line with the center forward. The outside midfielders should create numbers with the center midfielder controlling the high middle. It is up to the center forward to finish. This is similar to the the system Jozy Altidore has flourished in with AZ Alkmaar.
The biggest concern for the United States is having the talent to make the formation work effectively. This requires skill, fitness, and speed. However, it is the responsibility of the coach to use the skills he or she has to the best of the ability and to develop others to fill the roles that need filled.
With possession this can create many chances for the attacker and the midfielders filling in. The first pass becomes critical and the center midfielder often takes the game on as general of the pitch. There is plenty of opposition to the formation, even during the pregame on cable television. The 4-3-3 takes time to learn and can be very frustrating to fans. However, this is the wish of Klinsmann and he has spoken to the need to develop from the ground up. There are no excuses with the 4-3-3.