TThe 4-3-3 is a standard tactical organization, a formation that has lines with four defenders, three midfielders and three forwards. The biggest change is seen in the midfield. After all, different combinations can be made with the trio. In the front, the formation is characterized by two outside forwards and one centre-forward. The origin of its first use is very imprecise, but it is possible to verify Italian tactical drawings about this formation in the 1920s. For example, in the match between Hungary and Italy, 11/05/1930, in Budapest, the Hungarians pointed out that the Italians played with a line of four defenders, three midfielders and three attackers. At that time, Italy won the match 5:0.

During the 1930s this formation was commonly called Italian system. It was used as a formation made for defensive sides. However, in recent decades compared to the vast path of Association Football, it is being used more as an offensive formation.

The 4-3-3 is a direct pattern from the 2-3-5, as it is only necessary to move both wing half-backs and both inside forwards back to obtain this formation.

OL                        CF                        OR

CM                       CM
DM
LB                                                      RB
CB                  CB