| Formation | 1958 4-2-4 System |
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Having been used in some
South American and European clubs, the "4-2-4" system itself was not new, but
its advantage was first clearly demonstrated by the Brazilian team at the Sweden World Cup
in 1958. The type of defense was "zonal," comprising four defenders. The offense also employed four players, including two wingers. As the two midlfielders served as the link between offense and defense, both activities were executed by six players, that is, the two midfield players plus four offensive or defensive players. For the system to function, the midfielders must have not only superb stamina, but also excellent technique to keep the ball from the opposing side. Sometimes, Brazil's left winger, Mario Zagalo (currently, the coach of the Brazilian national team) came down to the midfield, making the formation somewhere between 4-2-4 and 4-3-3. |