ionutd

Opposition instructions at the beggining of every game: Strikers should be tight marked (set tigh marking to your DC's too), AMC's anc MC's closed down and wingers tight marked and closed down by your fullbacks. But this also implies that you must watch the match at least in "key" mode, if not "extended" and be careful to make changes to player instructions as your opponent brings on subs or switches from AMC to striker. Failing to keep track of what modifications are made during a game will result in creating chances for the opposite team, as you will end up tight marking the wrong person and leaving a striker open in front of the goal. So if you can't keep up, don't mess with the instructions.

Furthermore, you need quality players in your rear. The DM should have good marking and be set to defensive, as well as no further runs. You need him to stay back and stop any incoming attacks before they get too close. The DC's should be tall, strong, with good Heading, Marking and Tackling, also look for Concentration (they will make less mistakes). You need old, experiences DC's, but not slow ones. Look for pace and acceleration attributes and avoid the players with low values. Fullbacks should be swift(as the opp's wingers usually are), good marking and tackling, also positioning is an important attribute.

Set the DC's to tight and man marking and leave the fullbacks to zonal and mixed. If you wish to play offside, you must have fast defenders. Just 1 slow one will ruin everything and make you concede a lot. I usually put the devensive line deeper when facing teams with fast strikers, they get less space and less chances.

Can't think of anything else right now, but ask and I'll gladly answer. Good luck.