Top 5 formations used at the World Cup

4-1-4-1

Russia v Saudi Arabia: Group A - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia

The longer the tournament going on, the less chance there is of spotting a 4-1-4-1 system, which has been the go-to formation of some of the weaker nations when they have faced bigger fish so far.

It was showcased in the opening match of the tournament, when Saudi Arabia tried to stifle Russia playing in this manner, though the 5-0 defeat they suffered in that encounter showed just how ineffective they were at preventing their hosts from playing.

Using this formation should guarantee a degree of stability through the centre of the pitch, where the ‘1’ can act as a utility defensive player, able to cover where most required at any given moment. Should the midfield be breached, he should be able to sweep up and cover the danger. Equally, he can give the more advanced midfielders greater license to get forward and support the lone forward by making late runs into the box.

It is primarily a set up favoured by underdogs, but as the level of competition grows more even as the tournament progresses, it is liable to be used with increasing frequency.

So far, none of the teams playing in this manner in Russia have managed to score a victory.