4-4-2, 4-3-3, 3-5-2 — formations are read from defence to attack (goalkeeper excluded). The numbers tell you a team's shape, and the shape tells you their game plan.
4-4-2: the classic
Four defenders, four midfielders, two strikers. Balanced, hard to break down, built for partnerships — the two strikers work as a pair. Less common at the elite level now, but still lethal on the counter.
4-3-3: the modern standard
Four defenders, three central midfielders, three forwards. It dominates possession and presses high — the formation of choice for most top sides. The midfield three usually splits into one holder and two creators.
3-5-2 and 5-3-2: wing-back systems
Three centre-backs with wing-backs providing all the width. In attack it is a 3-5-2 (five in midfield); defending, the wing-backs drop back to make 5-3-2. Demands incredible fitness from the wide players.
What really matters
Formations are starting positions, not cages — teams morph constantly in play. The useful question is not 'what is the formation?' but 'where is the overload?' Whichever team has an extra player in the key zone usually wins the game.