Group C of the FC Pro Open was so incredibly stacked that it was nearly impossible to predict what would happen. From legendary gamers such as Tekkz, to the eChampions League 2023 winner, Emre Yilmaz, the competition was always going to be intense.
And yet, Obrun2002 emerged from this fiercely competitive group without a single loss. He was named the player of the day, with his unorthodox 4231 stealing the show.
After a relatively slow start of two draws, Obrun2002 won his remaining games while scoring the most and conceding the fewest goals in the group. We want to analyse Obrun’s tactics to find out just how the Team Exeed player found himself in this position.
So, how did he pull it off? It wasn't just that Obrun's 4231 tactics were effective, they were tailored for success. Today, we’re diving deep into his approach to uncover how this rising star turned the Group of Death into his playground.
The Origins of Obrun2002’s 4231 Setup
The story of Obrun’s 4231 begins not with months of planning but with a timely spark of inspiration. Just a day before the FC Pro Open qualifiers, Obrun faced his Team Exeed teammate Samugamer07 in a handful of practice matches.
Samu outclassed Obrun using the 4231, leaving a lasting impression. Recognizing its potential, Obrun made the bold decision to adapt the formation for himself and take it into the grueling qualification matches without much practice. He’s only gone from strength to strength with it since.
In its current iteration, what sets Obrun’s take on the 4231 apart is its clever use of the Center Half player role. In a game where the pro players typically prefer to have rigid fullbacks, using a center half adds an element of fluidity to the tactics.
One of his defensive midfielders drops back into the defensive line, creating a hybrid system that strengthens his defense while allowing the fullbacks to push forward more freely.
This adjustment not only provides some much-needed width but also offers unique passing options, keeping opponents guessing and stretching their defensive structure.
It is a nuanced tactical approach that achieves balance by combining the defensive solidity that is natural to the 4231 (narrow) with the attacking flair of what is essentially a 3331 formation. This ensures his team can create chances without leaving the backline vulnerable.
Let’s take a deeper look into his tactics:
Obrun2002’s Pro Meta 4231 Custom Tactics
Build Up Style: Balanced
Defensive Approach: Balanced (50)
Obrun2002’s Pro Meta 4231 Player Roles
- GK: Sweeper Keeper - Build Up
- RB: Fullback - Balanced
- CB: Defender - Defend
- CB: Defender - Defend
- LB: Wingback - Balanced
- CDM: Holding - Defend
- CDM: Centre-Half - Defend
- CAM: Playmaker - Balanced
- CAM: Playmaker - Balanced
- CAM: Playmaker - Balanced
- ST: Advanced Forward - Attack
Tactics Code: zDLHN4H79gD
What Makes Obrun’s 4231 META in Attack?
Obrun2002’s approach to the 4231 shines brightest when his team is in possession.
The tactical setup transforms into a 3-3-3-1, with the Center Half dropping into the backline to form a makeshift defensive trio. This shift frees the fullbacks to provide width higher up the pitch.
The attacking width provided by the fullbacks is complemented by the positioning of the three CAMs. Unlike traditional wide players, Obrun’s left and right CAMs operate in the half-spaces. This positioning creates narrow, dynamic attacking lanes that exploit gaps in the opposition’s defense.
He uses their technical ability to add a layer of creativity and controlto keep keep defenders off balance.
The central CAM is at the heart of the attack, embodying the role of the “traditional 10.” This player mirrors how other pros have used their central CAMs, going for players with impeccable vision and the ability to play precise passes into tight spaces while also providing a goal threat.
For Obrun, having a player in this position who can unlock his striker and the wide CAMs with chipped through balls and clever deliveries is essential. His presence ensures that the attack remains unpredictable, as Obrun can alternate between short, intricate combinations and direct balls over the top.
Finally, Obrun had his undisputed star up front. Obrun prefers brawn to finesse in this position, picking a striker that feels more like an unstoppable force than a tricky or pacy forward.
He values aerial presence as well as the ability to fire in a powershot over anything else. With the fullbacks finding space to attack the flanks, it is imperative to have someone capable of turning crosses into genuine threats.
Quick on the ground and physically imposing, the striker is the perfect focal point for Obrun’s attack. Whether holding up the ball to link play, overpowering defenders, or finishing with precision, this player is the player who elevates this setup from effective to exceptional.
What Makes Obrun’s 4231 So Good Defensively?
While Obrun’s 4231 is celebrated for its attacking adaptability, its defensive solidity is equally impressive.
The key lies in the role of the Center Half, with one CDM dropping into the defensive line when Obrun has the ball. This creates a three-man backline that offers stability, mitigating the risks associated with pushing the fullbacks higher up the pitch.
This one change made him very difficult to counterattack. Once the team settles into the 4231 shape again, the team is incredibly tough to break down.
Obrun’s defensive midfield pairing is made up of versatile all-rounders who effectively shield the backline while maintaining the ability to step forward and engage in midfield duels. Their ability to cover ground and disrupt passing lanes minimizes the gaps in the defense.
In the CAMs, the team has 3 more willing defenders.
The defensive shape remains compact, with the CAMs in the press, as well as in a mid block. While the wide CAMs track back to help cut out passing options in the wide areas, the central CAM positions himself to disrupt central buildup play.
This coordinated effort ensures that Obrun’s team can quickly regain possession without compromising their structure.
Finally, the center backs anchor the defensive line with a balance of physical dominance and positional awareness. Both CBS have the speed to command the backline. They thrives under pressure, denying space for opponents to exploit.
Even the goalkeeper plays a role in Obrun’s defensive scheme. When called upon, the goalie acts as an additional defender during transitions, proactively clearing loose balls.
This combination of individual roles and cohesive structure ensures that Obrun’s 4231 remains defensively resilient, even against the most potent attacks.
It’s a system built on balance, where players are empowered to contribute both defensively and offensively without leaving the team vulnerable.
Obrun2002’s Key Players and Roles
Goalkeeper
Edwin van der Sar was Obrun2002’s pick between the sticks, a choice that was made possible by his meticulous approach to team-building.
Widely regarded as the best goalkeeper in the game, van der Sar commands a premium price tag nearly ten times that of Thibaut Courtois, yet Obrun deemed him worth every coin. Like Courtois, van der Sar also has Rush Out+ playstyle but the Dutch legend has more playstyles than Courtois and the added bonus of being an icon, meaning he fits into any squad seamlessly while boosting team chemistry.
In Obrun’s system, van der Sar’s Sweeper Keeper - Build Up role makes him a safety net in defensive transitions, as he is quick off his line to sweep up through balls and launch counters where possible.
Fullbacks
Theo Hernández and Trent Alexander-Arnold are the perfect fit for Obrun’s tactics.
Theo Hernández has become the default leftback for all pro and elite players. In this setup, his role as a balanced wingback allows him to exploit his blistering pace and physicality more often than he would in the fullback role.
His overlapping runs provide natural width on the left flank, a crucial element in Obrun’s 3-3-3-1 attacking shape. Yet, Theo also remains defensively reliable, using his speed to recover and shut down counterattacks.
On the right, Alexander-Arnold’s role is slightly different. Unlike some pros who might opt for a more defensive option, Obrun seeks to exploit Alexander-Arnold’s elite passing and Whipped Pass+ playstyle to devastating effect.
His ability to deliver inch-perfect crosses transforms the striker into an aerial menace, adding a unique dimension to Obrun’s attack. He does not get as high up as Theo but being positioned in a slightly deeper position only gives him more time and space to play a killer pass.
It’s brilliant to watch.
And, despite what you might have heard from internet pundits, Alexander-Arnold’s a very capable defender, ensuring he remains disciplined when required, creating a dual-threat that opponents struggle to contain.
Together, the fullbacks are crucial to Obrun’s innovative 4231 setup: Hernández’s athleticism and Alexander-Arnold’s technical precision strike the perfect balance, allowing Obrun to maintain defensive integrity while amplifying his offensive options.
Centre Backs
Virgil van Dijk and William Saliba are fixtures in the squads of many elite players, and for good reason. Obrun2002’s choice to rely on this pairing reflects not just their individual quality but also their ability to adapt to his system.
van Dijk’s reputation as one of the best center-backs in the game is well-earned. His combination of physical dominance, great positioning, and ability to make miraculous last-ditch blocks makes him a defensive powerhouse.
What sets him apart is his ability to impose himself in duels and find the back of the net from corners in high-stakes moments.
Saliba is an equally vital component. Similar to van Dijk in many ways, he is slightly more mobile and agile, making him the perfect partner for the Dutchman. His ability to recover and cover spaces left by advancing fullbacks ensures Obrun’s system retains its defensive integrity, even when the team pushes forward.
The duo’s seamless partnership is the foundation on which Obrun’s 4231 is built, providing the defensive assurance needed to execute his ambitious tactics without hesitation.
Central Defensive Midfielders
Ryan Gravenberch and Tijani Reijnders bring contrasting but complementary skill sets to Obrun’s midfield, embodying the balance and fluidity of his 4231.
Gravenberch, towering and physically imposing, is a commanding presence in the middle of the park. His size makes him feel like an immovable object, winning aerial duels and shielding the ball with ease.
He’s basically the ‘cheap’ Ruud Gullit.
However, he’s far from just a physical force; his technical ability and composure on the ball allow him to play a modern libero role when Obrun transitions into possession. Dropping into the backline, Gravenberch transforms the defense into a back three, freeing the fullbacks to venture forward.
With his Long Ball Pass+ playstyle, he’s a threat in launching precise, diagonal passes that can spark rapid counterattacks, affording Obrun a quick and direct route to the opponent’s goal.
Reijnders, by contrast, operates as the orchestrator, quietly pulling the strings in midfield. His Tiki Taka+ playstyle makes him a master of quick, one-touch passing and his elite dribbling ensures he can wriggle out of tight spaces and retain possession under pressure.
He is capable of holding down the entire midfield when Gravenberch moves into the backline, dictating the tempo and maintaining control in the middle of the park. Reijnders isn’t the enforcer of the duo, but he handles himself well enough when he has to defend or get into a physical battle with an opponent.
Together, Gravenberch and Reijnders form a midfield partnership that is perfectly balanced and fits Obrun’s tactical vision. Gravenberch’s blend of brute strength and technical finesse pairs seamlessly with Reijnders’ elegance and ball mastery, creating a dynamic engine room that adapts to every phase of play.
Central Attacking Midfielders
The trio of Aitana Bonmati, Téji Savanier, and David Ginola forms the creative heartbeat of Obrun2002’s 4231, each bringing a unique flavor to the attack.
While Bonmati and Ginola occupy the wide CAM roles, their playmaker responsibilities mean they operate much closer to the center of the pitch than traditional wingers. Positioned in the half-spaces, they provide passing options and serve as reliable outlets for ball retention. Their positioning allows the fullbacks to push forward and provide width without overcrowding the flanks.
Bonmati offers exceptional ball control, insane dribbling, and vision, which allow her to manipulate defenders and maintain possession in tight spaces. On the opposite side, Ginola combines flair with strength, giving Obrun a more dynamic threat on the right. His ability to create separation with quick turns makes him invaluable for breaking down compact defenses.
Neither Bonmati nor Ginola rushes forward recklessly; instead, they patiently await Obrun’s triggered runs to exploit defensive gaps or to act as decoys, creating time and space for their teammates.
At the center of this trio is Savanier, the team’s budget maestro and a perfect example of a hidden gem. Operating as the central CAM, Savanier’s playmaking prowess and long ball+ playstyle make him the main creator in the team. He does well in tight spaces, rotating positions with the wide CAMs to find pockets where he can deliver those killer passes.
His ability to dictate the tempo and unlock defenses with his vision elevates the entire attack. Savanier may not carry the same price tag or hype as other top-tier options, but his performances consistently prove his worth, offering a creative spark at a fraction of the cost.
Striker
And now, the crown jewel of Obrun2002’s team: Didier Drogba. Positioned as the lone striker, Drogba is not just a finisher but the focal point of the entire system.
His presence up top demands constant attention from defenders. His elite movement means he could operate between the opposing center backs or take up one of the halfspaces, freeing up space for the CAMs to attack.
Drogba’s ability to stretch defenses with his pace, hold off challenges with his sheer strength, and unleash thunderous powershots makes him the ultimate attacking weapon. Whether he’s bullying defenders to win aerial duels or timing his runs perfectly to exploit through balls, he’s a nightmare for any backline.
In fact, some players in the team are only included because they complement Drogba so well. For example, Obrun’s choice of Trent Alexander-Arnold at right back. Trent’s whipped pass+ crosses are designed to find Drogba in the box, where he almost always comes out on top.
Drogba is the complete forward. He can turn games on their head with a moment of individual brilliance, whether it’s a long-range screamer, a tidy finish inside the box, or a header against the odds.
Obrun’s decision to build his attack around Drogba, even at the expense of more popular choices like Mbappé, speaks volumes about the faith he has in the Ivorian legend. Drogba isn’t just a striker in this system; he’s the striker.
Should You Use Obrun2002's 4231?
Obrun2002’s 4231 is a balanced and adaptable system. With its solid defensive shape and fluid attacking options, it caters to a style of play that requires a calculated build-up and thoughtful exploitation of space.
This is not a formation for those looking to dominate purely through raw speed or directness. While those are there in this setup, it requires a lot of user intervention to make that happen consistently.
Instead, it’s for players who relish controlling the tempo, creating overloads in midfield, and unlocking defenses with clever movement and pinpoint passing. Obrun’s tactical choices allow for versatility in possession, enabling you to stretch the pitch with your fullbacks or exploit the half-spaces with your CAMs, all while maintaining a robust defensive structure.
For players who enjoy dictating play while always having a plan B in attack, Obrun2002’s 4231 is a fantastic option. It’s a formation that rewards patience and mastery over time, as its success hinges on understanding how each player’s role interacts within the system. Obrun has shown that in the right hands, this setup is capable of achieving greatness, even against champions and legends of our game.
That concludes our breakdown of Obrun2002’s innovative 4231. What’s your favorite formation and tactic in FC 25? Let us know in the comments below!