Croatia First XI (3-1-4-2) - World Cup Qualifying - ShareMyTactics.com
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This is the shape of the team in possession, a blend of a 3-2-3-2 and a 3-1-4-2. Vukojević is under strict instructions to protect the right flank as Srna gets forward to add numbers to the midfield and provide options wide right. The remainder of the back line (Čorluka, Lovren, and Vida) become a functional back three, shifting rightward to cover the gap left by Srna. Srna has a very offensive role, running at the opposing left back to cut the ball inside, cross the ball, or draw a free kick. Rakitić, Kovačić, and Rakitić are given free roles to interchange through the center. Fluidity is key, here, to exploit the creativity of each (and the explosive dribbling of Kovačić). Eduardo and Mandžukić will interchange across the front line, with Eduardo dropping back to pick up the ball from the midfield, pushing the attacking midfielder (here, Kovačić and/or Rakitić) into an attacking run. Whichever midfielder is occupying the left pivot (in this diagram, Modrić) is tasked with increased defensive duties, since too much space on the left leaves Vida open to direct attack. Vida has a risky role. He is asked to step up into any counter-attacks instead of dropping back and giving chase. Lovren and Vukojević are to hang back and shift left in the event of an attack on that side, driving attacks to the corner. In the event of an attack down the right flank, Vukojević is to drop back and Čorluka and Srna are to apply pressure to the ball. Lovren and Vida are to cover any center and far post runs.
