PES 2021: Dominate With The Best Long Ball Counter Formations

by Jhon Lennon 62 views

Hey guys, are you ready to take your PES 2021 game to the next level? One of the most effective strategies, especially if you love a fast-paced, direct style of play, is the long ball counter. It's all about soaking up pressure, winning the ball back quickly, and then launching a swift attack downfield. This article dives deep into the best formations for long ball counter in PES 2021, giving you the edge you need to outsmart your opponents and dominate the virtual pitch. We'll break down the ideal player roles, tactical instructions, and offer some actionable tips to perfect your counter-attacking game.

Understanding the Long Ball Counter in PES 2021

Alright, before we get into the nitty-gritty of formations, let's make sure we're all on the same page about what the long ball counter is all about. It's not just hoofing the ball upfield and hoping for the best, guys. The long ball counter in PES 2021 is a calculated, strategic approach. You're aiming to: absorb your opponent's attacks, regain possession with speed, quickly transition from defense to offense, and exploit the space behind their defense. This style of play hinges on several key elements: a solid defensive shape, quick and decisive players, excellent passing ability, and the ability to capitalize on chances. Key attributes for players in this system include high speed, acceleration, stamina, and good passing and finishing skills. A successful long ball counter relies on a cohesive team effort. This means every player has a role to play, from the goalkeeper to the forwards. The keeper needs to be able to make quick throws or passes to start the counter. The defense has to be organized, ready to win the ball back, and distribute it effectively. The midfielders need to provide both defensive cover and creative passing options. And the forwards need to be able to run in behind the defense, receive the long ball, and finish their chances. Mastering this strategy takes practice, but once you get it down, you'll be scoring goals and frustrating opponents left and right.

Key Principles of a Successful Long Ball Counter

  • Defensive Solidity: A strong defensive foundation is paramount. You need to be compact, organized, and difficult to break down.
  • Quick Transitions: The quicker you can transition from defense to offense after winning the ball, the better.
  • Accurate Passing: Accurate passing is essential for finding your teammates and launching attacks.
  • Offensive Awareness: Your forwards need to be aware of when and where to make their runs, and be ready to capitalize on opportunities.
  • Patience and Discipline: Don't get caught out chasing the game. Stay organized and wait for your opportunities.

Top Formations for Long Ball Counter in PES 2021

Let's cut to the chase and discuss the formations that will give you the best chance of success. Remember, there's no magic formula, and you'll need to adapt based on your team's strengths and your opponent's weaknesses. However, these formations provide a solid base for a lethal long ball counter strategy in PES 2021.

4-3-3: The Classic Counter Attack Formation

The 4-3-3 formation is a classic for a reason, guys. It offers a great balance between defense and attack, making it ideal for the long ball counter. The key to using it effectively is to have: two solid center backs, fast fullbacks, a defensive midfielder to shield the defense, two box-to-box midfielders, and three speedy forwards. Here’s a breakdown of the player roles and instructions:

  • Goalkeeper: Standard role.
  • Fullbacks: Stay back while attacking, with the ability to provide width when needed.
  • Center Backs: Defend, with high aggression and marking.
  • Defensive Midfielder (DMF): Defend, with instructions to stay back and cut passing lanes.
  • Central Midfielders (CMF): One box-to-box midfielder with balanced instructions and another that supports the attack. Offer passing options.
  • Wingers (LW/RW): Stay wide, get in behind, and look for through balls.
  • Center Forward (CF): Target man or poacher, to finish off the chances.

Tactical Instructions

  • Attacking Style: Counter-attack.
  • Build-up: Short pass.
  • Attacking Area: Center.
  • Positioning: Maintain Formation.

This setup allows you to soak up pressure with your defense and DMF, win the ball back, and then quickly launch the ball to your wingers and center forward. The wingers' pace and ability to run in behind are crucial for stretching the defense and creating space for through balls. The defensive midfielder provides crucial cover, and the central midfielders offer passing options and support the attack. If your opponent is playing a high defensive line, this formation is a nightmare.

4-2-3-1: The Versatile Counter-Attacking Formation

The 4-2-3-1 is another excellent option for a long ball counter strategy in PES 2021. It offers a solid defensive shape and a great attacking presence. Here's a look at how to set it up:

  • Goalkeeper: Standard role.
  • Fullbacks: Stay back while attacking, or balanced if you prefer attacking fullbacks.
  • Center Backs: Defend, with high aggression and marking.
  • Defensive Midfielders (DMF): Defend, one with the Anchor Man role to sit deep and the other to support the attack.
  • Attacking Midfielders (AMF): Free role to support the attack and find spaces behind the defense.
  • Wingers (LW/RW): Stay wide, get in behind, and look for through balls.
  • Center Forward (CF): Target man or poacher, to finish off the chances.

Tactical Instructions

  • Attacking Style: Counter-attack.
  • Build-up: Short pass or long pass.
  • Attacking Area: Wide or center.
  • Positioning: Flexible.

This formation allows for a more compact defensive structure with two defensive midfielders providing a shield in front of the back four. The AMF can be a creative player who finds pockets of space and links the midfield to the attack. The wingers' pace and runs in behind are still vital, and the center forward is the focal point of the attack. With the right players and tactics, this formation is a beast in the long ball counter game.

4-4-2: The Direct and Deadly Counter

For a more direct and aggressive approach, the 4-4-2 formation can be very effective, especially if you have two pacey forwards. The key is to keep it tight defensively and unleash quick counter-attacks.

  • Goalkeeper: Standard role.
  • Fullbacks: Balanced or Stay back while attacking.
  • Center Backs: Defend.
  • Central Midfielders (CMF): One DMF and one CM to support the attack.
  • Wingers (LM/RM): Stay wide, get in behind, and look for crosses.
  • Forwards (CF/CF): Poacher and Target man roles.

Tactical Instructions

  • Attacking Style: Counter-attack.
  • Build-up: Long pass.
  • Attacking Area: Wide.
  • Positioning: Flexible.

The strength of the 4-4-2 lies in its simplicity and directness. You'll want to win the ball, quickly get it to the wingers, who can then whip in crosses or drive towards the goal. The two forwards will be crucial for making runs, holding up the ball, and scoring goals. This setup is all about speed and efficiency, making it a great choice for quick counter-attacks.

Player Roles and Instructions for Long Ball Counter Success

Choosing the right players and assigning them the correct roles and instructions is crucial for making your long ball counter strategy successful. Here’s a detailed look at the important roles and instructions:

Goalkeeper

  • Role: Standard.
  • Instructions: Make sure your keeper has good passing stats and can quickly throw or pass the ball to start the counter-attack. Consider the 'sweeper keeper' instruction if you play a high defensive line.

Defenders

  • Fullbacks: Stay Back While Attacking is important to maintain defensive solidity. Consider the 'Defensive' instruction for one of the fullbacks to provide extra cover. Fullbacks with high speed and crossing stats can be useful.
  • Center Backs: High aggression and marking are key. Quick center backs with good aerial ability are valuable.

Midfielders

  • Defensive Midfielder (DMF): Anchor Man to provide defensive cover, and Cut Passing Lanes to stop the opponent's attacks. Having high defensive stats is key.
  • Central Midfielders (CMF): Box-to-box midfielders are ideal, providing both defensive cover and support in attack. Make sure they have good passing, stamina, and work rate. Defensive and Offensive instructions can be applied.

Forwards

  • Wingers (LW/RW): Get in Behind and Side Change instructions. Wingers with high speed, acceleration, and dribbling are key. Good crossing and finishing stats are also useful.
  • Center Forward (CF): Target Man or Poacher role. Make sure they have high finishing, good pace, and the ability to win aerial duels. Quick players with good off-the-ball movement are crucial for runs in behind.

Tactical Instructions: Fine-Tuning Your Counter Attack

Beyond player roles, the tactical instructions play a vital role in perfecting your long ball counter strategy in PES 2021. These instructions determine how your team behaves, from build-up play to positioning. Here’s how to set them up:

Attacking Style

  • Counter-attack: This is a no-brainer. This ensures your team focuses on quick transitions from defense to offense.

Build-Up

  • Short pass or Long pass: Choosing the right build-up style depends on your team. Short pass for a more controlled approach, and long pass for a more direct, fast-paced game. Consider the quality of your passers.

Attacking Area

  • Center or Wide: Experiment with this setting, but generally, wide areas are best. This will encourage your wingers to make runs and stretch the defense.

Positioning

  • Maintain Formation or Flexible: Maintain Formation for a more rigid, structured approach, or Flexible for a more fluid style. This setting depends on your personal preference and your players' attributes.

Defensive Style

  • Defensive Aggression: Aggressive.
  • Pressing Style: Frontline Pressure or Conservative.

Training and Practice: Honing Your Counter-Attacking Skills

Okay guys, simply picking a good formation isn't enough to make your long ball counter strategy successful. You need to train and practice to truly master it. Here are some tips to help you hone your skills:

Practice Passing and Finishing

  • Passing Drills: Practice short and long passes. Focus on accuracy and speed. Perfect your through balls, as they are essential for counter-attacks.
  • Finishing Drills: Work on your finishing. Practice shooting from various angles, both inside and outside the box.

Master Player Runs and Movement

  • Off-the-Ball Runs: Train your forwards to make intelligent runs in behind the defense. Anticipate passes and time your runs perfectly.
  • Defensive Positioning: Practice defensive positioning. Learn to read your opponent's passes and intercept the ball.

Analyze Your Gameplay

  • Watch Replays: Watch your replays to identify areas for improvement. Look for mistakes, passing errors, and missed opportunities.
  • Adjust Tactics: Don't be afraid to adjust your tactics based on your performance and the opponent's strategy.

Conclusion: Becoming a Long Ball Counter Master

So there you have it, guys. The best formations for long ball counter in PES 2021, along with the player roles, tactical instructions, and training tips you need to dominate. Remember, the key is to be organized defensively, quick in transition, and clinical in front of goal. Experiment with these formations, adapt your tactics, and most importantly, practice! With dedication, you'll be well on your way to becoming a long ball counter master and leaving your opponents in the dust. Good luck, and have fun out there on the virtual pitch! Go out there and dominate!