Although there is no one 'special' tactical shape that will lead to success in every 7v7 game, it can be extremely beneficial for coaches to provide their players with experience in playing with different styles and systems. Being deliberate with your 7v7 shapes can also help with player development and the ability for young players to experience different situations tactically from a young age.
Below is a YouTube breakdown detailing four different shapes and we explain the advantages in-possession of each one. If you enjoy this content, please subscribe to our MSC YouTube page.
2-3-1 System
This system establishes a number of passing angles in the initial build and provide a really effective structure to teach 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 systems. It also provides really good reference points with the diamond that is created from the goalkeeper in the build. With good angles and numbers around the ball in the build-up, this can expose players to the advantages of combination play. It also creates an element of freedom and flexibility higher up the pitch as players learn to understand relationships and basic positioning. Another big advantage is that it creates numbers in attacking positions and allows defenders to join in with attacks.
3-2-1 System
Because of the initial width, this system provides a team with a variety of pictures in the build-up, plus it's also a chance to involve the goalkeeper in those solutions That width from the defenders also allows midfielders the freedom to receive the ball from the goalkeeper and defenders, as well as exposing them to situations where they receive under pressure.
Because midfielders can drop in and create overloads, this allows weak side players to push high and become an option in attack.
3-1-2 System
Again, this system provides a number of options with width in the build - but with only one central midfielder, who is likely to get marked tight, this system lends itself to more verticality in the build. With the advantage of with two center forwards, this verticality can provide a number of attacking options higher up the pitch. Central midfielder can become a really good option here to support underneath the forwards and that allows runners and numbers to get into the box.
3-3 System
Although this looks very basic, it can actually be a really good way to teach attacking flexibility within a fairly basic system. With no midfielders, defenders need to contribute to attack and attackers must contribute to defending - just like the modern game! With constant numbers around the ball, you also can provide players with constant overloads in the build. This also creates really high levels of freedom for players to move and support in possession without worrying about taking their teammates space. You can attack with numbers here and the system also provides high levels of flexibility in regards to central or wide build-ups.
If you would like to follow up with Gary Curneen about personal consultation, please email him at: gary@modernsoccercoach.com