Win Against Stronger Opponents with Reliable Underdog Tactics in Football Manager 2023

30 January 2023

30 January 2023

4 min read

Football Manager 2023 offers players the chance to take on the role of a football manager and guide their team to success. However, when taking control of an underdog team, it can be challenging to compete against stronger opponents. Here are some tips to help you create reliable underdog tactics in Football Manager 2023:

Focus on Defense

A strong defense is essential for underdog teams as it helps keep the scoreline close, giving you a better chance of winning. Consider using a deep defensive line, a compact midfield, and a well-organized backline.

Utilise Counter-Attacking

By sitting back and absorbing pressure, you can use quick transitions to exploit the gaps left by the opposition. Encourage your players to play direct, simple passes and look for opportunities to break quickly.

Set Piece Specialists

Set pieces can be crucial in deciding tight games. Focus on improving your team's dead-ball delivery and make sure your players are well-drilled in attacking and defending set pieces.

Make Use of Underrated Players

Football Manager 2023 allows you to scout and sign players who may be underrated. Look for players with good physical attributes and work rate to make an impact on the pitch.

Play to Your Strengths

Analyse your squad and identify your team's strengths. Build your tactics around these strengths, whether it's pace on the counter, aerial ability, or set-piece prowess.

Be Adaptable

In Football Manager 2023, it's crucial to be flexible in your approach. Adjust your tactics based on the opposition's strengths and weaknesses, and make tactical tweaks during the game if necessary.

By following these tips, you can create reliable underdog tactics in Football Manager 2023 and help your team compete against stronger opponents. Remember, persistence and patience are key in this game, so don't be discouraged if success doesn't come instantly. Keep working on your tactics and players, and you'll be well on your way to achieving your goals.

Tactical Instructions for Underdog Teams in Football Manager 2023

When creating tactics for an underdog team in Football Manager 2023, it's essential to select the right tactical instructions to give your team the best chance of success. Here are some of the best tactical instructions to use:

"Play Out of Defense"

Encourages your defenders to play short, simple passes to build from the back and retain possession. This can help your team establish a foothold in the game and keep the ball away from the opposition.

"Work Ball into Box"

Instructs your players to create chances by working the ball into the box, rather than playing long balls. This is particularly useful for teams that struggle to win aerial duels.

"Close Down Much More"

Telling your players to close down more aggressively can disrupt the opposition's play and put them under pressure. This is especially effective against teams that rely on short, quick passing.

"Tight Marking"

Instructs your defenders to closely mark their opponents, making it harder for them to receive and control the ball. This is useful for stopping key opposition players from having an impact on the game.

"Exploit the Flanks"

Encourages your players to attack down the flanks, looking to create chances from crosses into the box. This can be particularly effective against teams that struggle to defend against wide play.

By selecting the right tactical instructions and adjusting them based on the opposition's strengths and weaknesses, you can give your underdog team a better chance of success in Football Manager 2023.

Ideal Player Profile for Underdog Teams in Football Manager 2023

When building a squad for an underdog team in Football Manager 2023, it's important to identify the right player profile to give your team the best chance of success. Here are some key attributes to look for:

Work Rate

High work rate players will press the opposition and cover more ground, making it more difficult for the opposing team to play.

Athleticism

Strong physical attributes such as pace, strength, and stamina can help your players compete against stronger opposition.

Teamwork

Look for players who have good teamwork and work well with their teammates. This can help your team gel and play as a cohesive unit.

Positioning

Good positional sense can help your players make the right decisions and put themselves in the right place at the right time.

Adaptability

Players who can play multiple positions or change their style of play to suit different situations can give you more flexibility and make it easier to adjust your tactics during a game.

By focusing on these key attributes, you can identify the right player profile for an underdog team in Football Manager 2023 and build a squad that can compete against stronger opposition.


In conclusion, creating a successful underdog team in Football Manager 2023 requires a combination of tactics, player selection, and adaptability. By focusing on defense, utilizing counter-attacking strategies, setting up set piece specialists, playing to the strengths of your players, and being prepared to adjust your tactics as the game progresses, you can give your team the best chance of success. You can browse our vast selection of underdog tactics for FM23 here.

When selecting players, look for those with high work rates, athleticism, teamwork, good positioning, and adaptability. These attributes can help your players compete against stronger opposition and give you the flexibility to adjust your tactics during a game.

With these tips in mind, you can lead your underdog team to victory and achieve success in Football Manager 2023. Remember, persistence, hard work, and careful planning are key to creating a successful underdog team. Good luck!

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