Whether they win games in MLS or the Leagues Cup, a scouting source reports, they have used the 4-3-3 defensive formation in their last eight games. In that period, which includes MLS and three Leagues Cup games, Orlando City SC achieved a record of 6-1-1. The loss and one of the wins came in the Leagues Cup shootout.
With the current personnel, head coach Oscar Pareja has made few changes to his lineup and used this formation. The only other formation in this eight-game span was the double six. This game ended in a 5-0 win over DC United.
The 4-3-3 system is easy to understand and the formation can also be easily adapted to put the defense first.
The formation is easy to adapt to the defense, allows pressure all over the field and promotes zonal coverage. Earlier this season, the most frustrating games for Orlando players were those in which they could not control space.
In a loss to Columbus Crew earlier this season, Pareja noticed that opponents were crowding City out of space. Frustration grew as Orlando allowed more and more space. They became confused, forgot their drills and fell into old habits.
While the defenders keep the defensive third closed, the midfielders offer passing options up front.
The centre-forward in many of these 4-3-3 games was Ramiro Enrique, who took his chance and scored goals in two of the three League Cup games during regular time.
Pareja has stressed the importance of creating space for players, and this formation has proven effective in controlling the ball and space.
This will allow them to compete with the others in their next MLS match against Sporting Kansas City, a team that usually plays variations of the same 4-3-3 system.
Their experience with this formation is much more patchy than that of Orlando City SC. Control and space creation will be the key.
