Soccer Education/Formations: 4-4-2

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The 4-4-2 and 3-5-2 formations are probably the most commonly used. In the 4-4-2 formation, pictured above, the sweeper/stopper version has the sweeper as the last defensive chance behind the defensive line.

Here are some details about the positions:

Sweeper (SW) The sweeper should be a leader on the field. Controls the defense, always staying behind the fullbacks.
Stopper (ST) Responsible for marking (or covering) the center forward or center midfielder of the other team. Also has an important offensive part of distributing the ball to the midfielders.
Left/Right Backs (LB/RB) Mark the opponent's forwards and are the only real defenders. These players have to be dependable and willing to give up any kind of offensive play.
Left/Right Defenders (LD/RD) Mar the other teams forwards. In the flatback version, or in more advanced teams these players are used to carry the ball up the outside with the midfielders, allowing more effective crossing.
Left/Right Midfielders(LM/RM) Are in charge for the crosses in the offense, and usually carry the ball up the field, since they have more room than the center midfielders.
Left/Right Centermidfielders (LC/RC) Distribute the ball among the offenders and try to stop or slow down opposing plays before they get to the defensive line.
Forwards (F1/F2) In these very basic formations, the forwards do no special work. Runs to the corners need to be only occasional, and dropping back to the midfield shouldn't be the primary way of getting the ball. .