OSM Line Tactics Guide: Fine-Tuning Mentality Per Line

Line tactics refine how each group of players behaves within the overall team structure. Instead of treating the team as a single block, line tactics allow you to assign specific responsibilities to forwards, midfielders, and defenders.

When used correctly, line tactics improve cohesion, reduce tactical contradictions, and help the AI execute your game plan more effectively. When used incorrectly, they can completely undermine your formation and style.

Why Line Tactics Matter

Aligns player behaviour with your overall tactical goals
Avoids contradictions such as defensive defenders in attacking systems
Improves spacing between lines and transition timing
Reduces AI confusion and improves match consistency

Forward Line Tactical Roles

Role	Behaviour	When to Use
Attack Only	Forwards stay high, focus almost exclusively on goal scoring and attacking runs	Wing Play, attacking formations, high tempo setups
Support Midfield	Forwards drop slightly to link midfield and attack, supporting build-up play	Balanced setups, Passing Game, possession-oriented play
Drop Deep	Forwards actively retreat into midfield zones to help ball progression	Counter Attack, defensive formations, low possession strategies

Forward Line Tactical Notes

Attack Only should never be paired with defensive game plans, as it isolates the forwards. Drop Deep is ineffective in attacking formations because it removes presence from the box. Support Midfield is the safest option when tactical balance is required.

Midfield Line Tactical Roles

Role	Behaviour	When to Use
Push Forward	Midfielders actively support the attack and arrive late into advanced areas	Attacking styles, Wing Play, dominant midfield setups
Stay in Position	Midfielders hold their zones, maintaining structure and spacing	Balanced systems, unknown opponents, controlled matches
Protect Defense	Midfielders prioritize shielding the backline and cutting passing lanes	Counter Attack, defensive styles, protecting a lead

Midfield Line Tactical Notes

The midfield is the tactical backbone of your team. Push Forward increases attacking numbers but exposes space behind. Protect Defense adds stability but limits creativity. Stay in Position offers the most consistent control.

Defender Line Tactical Roles

Role	Behaviour	When to Use
Attacking Full Backs	Full backs push forward to support wide attacks and crossing opportunities	Wing Play, Passing Game, attacking formations
Support Midfield	Defenders step up slightly to assist midfield circulation	Balanced styles, possession-focused control
Defend Deep	Defenders stay compact and prioritize pure defensive duties	Counter Attack, defensive formations, protecting leads

Defender Line Tactical Notes

Attacking Full Backs should never be used in defensive formations, as they expose space. Defend Deep is essential when absorbing pressure. Support Midfield works best when maintaining possession and controlling tempo.

Line Tactics and Tactical Consistency

Line tactics must always reinforce your formation, game plan, style, pressure, and tempo. An attacking formation requires proactive line behaviour, while defensive formations demand disciplined, conservative roles.

When all three lines operate with aligned intent, your team behaves as a cohesive unit rather than disconnected segments — this is where tactical mastery in OSM truly begins.