Flat back four

A flat back four is a defensive formation that consists of two central defenders, also referred to as center-halfs and two fullbacks. The foursome often has to press and defend together, generally playing in a line across the pitch. The main function of a back four is to act as the defense to the team’s goal area and to help assist the goalkeeper in preventing an opposition goal.

You can use the flat back four in conjunction with an offside trap, a defensive method involving a player placing his body between an attacking opponent and the ball. In this situation, it is crucial the back four move together in a line to try and catch the attacking player in an offside position. One mistake can lead to the attacker being onside and allowing a goal-scoring opportunity.

What are the advantages of a flat back four?

Flat back fours provide several benefits. If a team has good chemistry, the coach is familiar with the players, and they are the right quality of player, these advantages may be used to their full potential.

Firstly all of the players involved in this tactic must communicate throughout the full match; this is usually controlled by the central defenders, who try to keep the organization.

Fullbacks benefit from this type of tactic, as it gives them an edge over their opponents in specific scenarios. Midfielders must step in and take over if a player loses control of the ball. However, Fullbacks’ participation may be limited by the flat back four approach, limiting their engagement to specific attacking situations.