3-5-2 and 3-2-2-3 Formations: Tactical Applications & Game Models

with Marcus DiBernardo,
Monroe College Head Men's Coach;
2019 NJCAA Division I National Champions (18-0);
2018 NJCAA Division I Women's National Champions (16-0-1);
6x NJCAA National Tournament appearances;
2019 United Soccer Coaches Men's Soccer Coaching Staff of the Year;
2018 United Soccer Coaches Women's Soccer Coaching Staff of the Year;
2012 NSCAA Coach of the Year

In this video, Marcus DiBernardo discusses the tactical similarities and differences of the 3-5-2 and 3-2-2-3 formations, along with the principles of organizing both offensively and defensively within these systems of play. Using a combination of interactive diagrams and live video demonstrations from team practices, Coach DiBernardo expertly breaks down his offensive and defensive philosophy for each formation. You will learn:

• How to create an attacking game model
• How to organize in defense
• How to build out of the back

Creating an Attacking Game Model

DiBernardo leads off the video by discussing the game model he uses for both the 3-5-2 and 3-2-2-3 formations. Through the use of a positional grid, he provides a blueprint for his attacking strategy, giving insights on the tactical goals that work best in each section of the field. In this segment, Coach DiBernardo also stresses the importance of maintaining defensive balance in order to transition quickly to stop an opponent's counterattack.

Organizing Defensively

Next, DiBernardo discusses the roles and responsibilities of each player while defending in both formations. Beginning with the backs and increasing players until the entire team is organized, Coach DiBernardo demonstrates how to keep a tightly compact shape to make it difficult for opposing teams to find any attacking space. Additionally, he expertly breaks down how to use forwards to pressure the ball higher up the field, leading to more turnovers and counterattacking opportunities.

Building out of the Back

Using the 3-2-2-3 and 3-5-2 formations, DiBernardo uses multiple drills to illustrate how to build up play effectively from the back. Beginning with the organization of the defenders and goalkeepers, he outlines how to use numerical advantages and proper spacing between players to create a variety of passing angles and options for maintaining possession while building the attack.

Throughout this video, Coach DiBernardo expertly breaks down the 3-5-2 and 3-2-2-3 formations, using a combination of diagram and video demonstrations to teach coaches his method for attacking, defending, and building from the back. Among the program's many features, Coach DiBernardo demonstrates a counterattacking drill, using multiple small goals to teach players how to transition quickly to offense once gaining possession. By spreading these goals out across the field, players are taught to look for various options to attack their opponent's weakness and move quickly down the field.

This five star video is a must-have for any coach looking to gain a better understanding of both the 3-5-2 and 3-2-2-3 formations. Coach DiBernardo breaks down his attacking and defending principles clearly and concisely, creating an ideal blueprint for coaches looking to implement these formations with their teams.

65 minutes. 2021.