Every football formation is a promise about where players stand. In the Squad Builder the numbers also change what you can afford, because each shape asks for a different mix of defenders, midfielders and forwards.
4-4-2: the balanced default
Two banks of four and two strikers. It is simple, it is sturdy and it fits almost any pool. If you are new to fantasy, start here.
4-3-3: more goal threat
Three forwards stretch a defence and three midfielders cover the middle. You pay more up front, but a hot attacking trio can win a match on its own.
4-2-3-1 and 4-1-4-1: the modern shapes
Two holding midfielders, or a single anchor, protect the back four while a line of attacking midfielders feeds one striker. These shapes spread your spending across the midfield, which is where most A-League squads have their depth.
3-5-2, 5-3-2 and 3-4-3
Three-at-the-back systems trade defensive numbers for midfield or attack. The 5-3-2 does the opposite: five defenders make you hard to beat, but you will need goals from two forwards. Try each one and compare the squad rating.
