One of the biggest keys to success in FIFA 22 is choosing the right formation. The right setup can balance your defense, create scoring chances, and give you control of the midfield. Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or a pro competing online, these are the best formations in FIFA 22 for every playstyle.

1. 4-2-3-1 (The Balanced Formation)

✅ Best for: Beginners & Competitive Players

The 4-2-3-1 is one of the most popular formations in FIFA 22 because it offers balance between defense and attack. With two CDMs protecting the backline, you’ll find it easier to defend, while the three CAM/wingers provide attacking creativity.

Strengths:

  • Very strong defensively with 2 CDMs.

  • Great for possession play.

  • Flexible in attack with a central CAM.

Weaknesses:

  • Can feel slow in counterattacks.

  • Striker may get isolated if CAM doesn’t support.

Custom Tactics Suggestion:

  • Defensive Style: Balanced

  • Width: 45 | Depth: 60

  • Offensive Style: Direct Passing

2. 4-4-2 (The Classic Counterattack Setup)

✅ Best for: Beginners

The traditional 4-4-2 remains effective in FIFA 22. With two banks of four, it’s easy to understand for beginners and provides natural width. The two strikers make counterattacks quick and dangerous.

Strengths:

  • Very beginner-friendly.

  • Two strikers make attacking simple.

  • Compact defense.

Weaknesses:

  • Midfield can get overrun by stronger opponents.

  • Requires good stamina management.

Custom Tactics Suggestion:

  • Defensive Style: Balanced

  • Width: 50 | Depth: 55

  • Offensive Style: Balanced or Long Ball

3. 4-3-3 (Attack Variant)

✅ Best for: Players who like possession & wing play

This formation spreads the field, allowing you to dominate possession and use fast wingers. The midfield trio helps with ball control, making it a solid choice for intermediate players.

Strengths:

  • Great for wide players and pacey wingers.

  • Strong possession play.

  • Good for players who like to build up slowly.

Weaknesses:

  • Can be vulnerable in midfield if opponent presses.

  • Lone striker may get isolated.

Custom Tactics Suggestion:

  • Width: 50 | Depth: 65

  • Chance Creation: Possession or Direct Passing

4. 5-2-1-2 (The Meta Formation for FUT)

✅ Best for: Pros & Advanced Players

The 5-2-1-2 became one of the most dominant meta formations in FIFA 22 Ultimate Team. With three center-backs and wing-backs pushing forward, you get both strong defense and powerful counterattacks.

Strengths:

  • Solid defensive base with 3 CBs.

  • Wing-backs provide extra width in attack.

  • Perfect for counterattacking.

Weaknesses:

  • Requires high stamina wing-backs.

  • Can be tricky for beginners.

Custom Tactics Suggestion:

  • Width: 40 | Depth: 65

  • Offensive Style: Direct Passing

  • Instructions: Wing-backs “Join the Attack.”

5. 4-1-2-1-2 (Narrow)

✅ Best for: Players who love quick passing and central play

This narrow diamond midfield is perfect for Tiki-Taka passing. With one CDM protecting the defense, two CMs and a CAM provide constant link-up play with the strikers.

Strengths:

  • Excellent for short passing and possession.

  • Dominates the midfield.

  • Great for players who love skill moves in tight areas.

Weaknesses:

  • No natural width (reliant on full-backs).

  • Vulnerable against fast wingers.

Custom Tactics Suggestion:

  • Width: 40 | Depth: 60

  • Offensive Style: Fast Build Up

  • Instructions: Full-backs “Stay Back While Attacking” (unless confident).

Final Thoughts

  • Beginners should start with 4-2-3-1 or 4-4-2 because they are simple, balanced, and easy to defend with.

  • Intermediate players can experiment with 4-3-3 or 4-1-2-1-2 (Narrow) for more attacking options.

  • Pros and FUT competitive players often prefer 5-2-1-2, which is one of the strongest meta formations in FIFA 22.

👉 Remember: the best formation also depends on your playstyle. Test different setups, adjust custom tactics, and find the system that makes you most comfortable.