The 1-3-3-1 formation organizes the eight forwards during attacking phases across the width of the pitch. One forward stays near each sideline to provide options for wide passes. Two groups of three forwards occupy the middle areas to crash into the defense.
This layout creates a balanced wall of players that stretches the opposing team thin. It allows the team to attack the center or the edges with equal strength. Forwards in this system must possess excellent passing skills to move the ball quickly. Coaches use this to keep the defense guessing about where the next hit will come.
For example, the Australian national team often used this shape to pull defenders away from the middle. This created massive gaps for their fast runners to sprint through for easy scores. It is a highly effective way to maintain momentum and dominate the field territory.
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