Tactics in OSM: How to Counter Long Shots with Different Team Strengths

Online Soccer Manager (OSM) is an addictive football game where tactics and strategy are central. One of the most common playing styles in OSM is 'long shots', where opponents shoot on goal from outside the penalty area. In this blog, we'll discuss tactics to counter this playing style, depending on the strength of your own team.

If your team is weaker than the opponent:

When playing against a stronger team that opts for long shots, it's important to organize your defense well and simultaneously create opportunities for a counterattack.

  • Choose a more defensive formation, such as 5-3-2 or 5-4-1.
  • Use zone coverage to minimize space for long shots.
  • Set your team to 'short in front of the defense' to further limit space for the opponent.
  • Set the pressure to 'high' to force the opponent into mistakes and recover the ball faster.
  • Choose 'counterattack' as an attacking style to switch quickly when you regain possession.


If your team is as strong as the opponent:

In an evenly matched game, it's important to strike a good balance between defending and attacking, and disrupt your opponent with a flexible tactic.

  • Try a balanced formation, such as 4-4-2 or 4-3-3.
  • Combine zone coverage with man-to-man marking to confuse the opponent.
  • Alternate between 'short in front of the defense' and 'stay back' to be unpredictable for the opponent.
  • Vary the pressure on the ball, depending on the situation on the field.
  • Use a combination of 'counterattack' and 'stay up front' to surprise the opponent with quick transitions and attacking threat.


If your team is stronger than the opponent:

If you have a stronger team, the goal is to put pressure on the opponent and disrupt their playing style by taking the initiative.

 

  • Go for an attacking formation, such as 4-3-3 or 3-4-3.
  • Choose zone coverage to limit space for long shots.
  • Set your team to 'stay up front' to maintain pressure on the opponent and create chances.
  • Keep the pressure at 'high' to force the opponent into mistakes and quickly recover the ball.
  • Choose a combination of 'possession' and 'counterattack' as an attacking style, allowing you to dictate the pace of the match and switch quickly when needed.


Conclusion

Countering the playing style 'long shots' in OSM is a challenge that can be tackled with the right tactics. Depending on the strength of your team, it's important to choose a suitable formation, coverage, pressure on the ball, and attacking style. By being flexible and unpredictable, you can disrupt your opponent and increase your chances of success. Good luck in your next matches in Online Soccer Manager!