Patrick Kluivert's Start With Indonesia & Back Three Vs Back Four - Tactical Theory

Today, we have a tactical analysis piece on Patrick Kluivert's start with Indonesia along with a tactical theory piece on the considerations when choosing between a back three and a back four.

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Today’s TFA Posts ⚽

Indonesia are in the football spotlight as this past international break marks the debut of their national team coach, Patrick Kluivert.

Yes, that one.

Kluivert is famous as a player, having achieved legendary status with the Netherlands national team and various clubs, including Ajax and Barcelona.

Today, we analyse Kluivert’s start with the Indonesian national team.

In modern football, the choice between a back three and a back four is crucial in shaping a team’s tactical balance.

Both formations have advantages, each offering distinct benefits depending on the team’s needs, playing style, and the match context.

A back three provides greater central coverage and depth, allowing defenders to step out and anticipate opposition movements confidently.

This setup can be particularly advantageous for teams that play high press or those who need additional cover when defending against counterattacks.

However, a back three can also be vulnerable against teams that exploit wide areas, often morphing into a back five and limiting attacking options.

This is especially evident when the wing-backs are forced to drop too deep to cover the wide spaces, leaving fewer players in attacking positions.

The system places significant responsibility on the wing-backs, demanding them to cover large distances both defensively and offensively.

On the flip side, a back four offers solidity and simplicity, ensuring balanced coverage across the pitch.

It ensures that a team has clear defensive lines in place, even against quick wingers or opponents who rely on high pressing.

However, it does require full-backs who can contribute both defensively and offensively and can struggle against teams with mobile forwards or three-man attacking lines.

Today’s tactical theory explores the key considerations when choosing between both systems.

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