Netherlands National Football Team Formation

Starting Lineup

Maatsen · Frimpong · Verbruggen · van Dijk · van de Ven · de Ligt · Veerman · Schouten · Depay · Malen · Simons

The Netherlands play with a high press and verticality using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup aims to win the ball high up the pitch and attack with speed. The team looks to push the opposition back quickly to create chances and control the game.

Verbruggen plays between the posts to guard the goal. A back three forms the base of the defense with van de Ven as the left centre back, van Dijk in the middle, and de Ligt on the right. van Dijk uses his aerial strength to win the header and clear the lines. van de Ven and de Ligt work to cover the space behind the midfield and step up to intercept passes. The defensive unit moves together to hold the line and squeeze the space when the ball is in the middle of the pitch.

The midfield operates with a double pivot and wide players. Schouten and Veerman act as a double pivot to control the tempo. Schouten works to shield the defense and win the second ball, while Veerman looks to play through the lines and find the feet of the striker. Maatsen and Frimpong act as wide midfielders who provide width and support the flanks. Frimpong uses his speed to carry the ball forward and overlap the winger. This group connects the defensive unit to the attacking front by recycling possession.

Three attackers lead the line with Depay acting as the central striker. Malen and Simons operate as wide forwards to stretch the defense. Malen prefers to cut inside to goal, while Simons works to find pockets of space. Depay can drop into the hole to link up play or act as a target man to hold up the ball. The attack relies on runs in behind and cutbacks from the wide areas to score. The forwards press from the front to force a long ball from the opposition.

The Netherlands gain a massive advantage through the speed of transition provided by Frimpong and the wingers. They often achieve wide overloads when Maatsen and Frimpong push high up the pitch to support the attackers. The central trio of van de Ven, van Dijk, and de Ligt offers great compactness when defending against crosses. This formation allows them to win the ball back high up the pitch.

This 3-4-3 formation is built to dominate games through high pressing and quick attacking movements. It is best suited for facing teams that play a high line or struggle to deal with rapid transitions.