The tactical shift from 4-2-3-1 to 5-4-1 has been a significant development in Lille's footballing strategy, and it is expected to enhance their defensive capabilities.

In the past, Lille relied heavily on their attacking prowess to win matches, but with the introduction of the new formation, they have shown that they can be just as effective at defending. The 5-4-1 system allows the team to play out wide, creating space for their forwards to cut inside and score goals, while also providing cover for the back four.

One of the key aspects of this formation is its flexibility. The team can switch between a 4-2-3-1 and a 5-4-1 depending on the situation, allowing them to adapt quickly to different opponents and match situations. This means that Lille will be able to play with a high line and press the opposition aggressively, or they can drop deeper and defend more defensively if needed.

Another benefit of the 5-4-1 formation is its ability to provide cover for the back four. With two central midfielders and a full-back playing behind the centre-backs, there is always someone available to cover the backline if needed. This means that even when one player is forced off due to injury or fatigue, the team still has options to replace them without disrupting the flow of the game.

Overall, the tactical shift from 4-2-3-1 to 5-4-1 has been a smart move by Lille, and it is expected to help them improve their defensive performances. By adapting their style of play to better suit their strengths, Lille will be able to compete at the highest level of European football.