Bologna Football Formation

Starting Lineup

L. Skorupski (1) · S. Posch (3) · S. Beukema (31) · J. Lucumi' (26) · J. MIRANDA (33) · G. Fabbian (80) · T. POBEGA (18) · L. Ferguson (19) · D. Ndoye (11) · B. DOMINGUEZ · T. DALLINGA (24)

Bologna operates with a formation built to defend deep and transition quickly using a 4-5-1. The team focuses on maintaining a compact block to deny space between the lines. This formation is designed to absorb pressure and then strike with speed once the ball is won.

L. Skorupski stands between the posts to command the area. The defense maintains a flat back four to protect the central zone. S. Posch and J. MIRANDA play as full backs, with S. Posch providing cover on the right and J. MIRANDA on the left. In the center, S. Beukema and J. Lucumi' act as the main defenders. J. Lucumi' plays out from the back, while S. Beukema is dominant in the air. They work together to hold the line and step up to set the offside trap.

The midfield is composed of five players working in close proximity. T. POBEGA and G. Fabbian form a double pivot that sits just in front of the back four to shield the defense. In front of them, L. Ferguson and D. Ndoye operate as central midfielders who carry the ball forward and cover wide areas. B. DOMINGUEZ plays as the attacking ten, acting as the link between the midfield and the striker. This midfield unit works to squeeze the space and press in a mid-block to win the ball back high up the pitch.

T. DALLINGA leads the attack as a lone striker. He works to hold up the ball and bring others into play. While he occupies the center, B. DOMINGUEZ and D. Ndoye look to arrive late into the box to add extra numbers to the attack. The team looks to move the ball quickly through the lines during transitions. The intention is to use the movements of the midfielders to create runs in behind the opposition defense.

A major strength of this Bologna formation is the ability to hold a compact shape that is difficult to break down. The presence of five players in the middle of the pitch ensures they win the second ball and maintain control of the center. Additionally, the team uses the speed of transition to punish opponents who overextend.

This 4-5-1 formation provides a balance of defensive security and clinical counter attacking. It is most effective when facing high pressing opponents that leave space behind their defensive line.