Kiel Football Formation

Starting Lineup

T. Weiner · M. Ivezić (T. Becker) · P. Erras (C. Johansson) · M. Geschwill · T. Becker · M. Knudsen · L. Holtby (N. Remberg) · F. Porath · S. Skrzybski (A. Gigović) · B. Pichler · S. Machino (F. Arp)

Kiel aim to play with a high press and verticality using a 3-5-2 formation. This lineup relies on heavy work rates to win the ball back high up the pitch and quickly transition into the final third. The team seeks to use the width provided by the wingers to stretch the opposition while maintaining a strong central presence to control the middle of the pitch.

T. Weiner operates between the posts to manage the defensive line. The back three consists of M. Geschwill, P. Erras, and M. Ivezić. M. Geschwill and M. Ivezić act as wide centre-backs to cover the flanks when the wingers push high, while P. Erras holds the middle to win headers and clear the lines. This defensive unit works to maintain a high line to squeeze the space between the lines and keep the team compact.

A three-man midfield drives the engine of Kiel. S. Skrzybski sits in the center to shield the defense and recycle possession. To his sides, M. Knudsen and L. Holtby act as carriers to drive forward with the ball and link the defense to the attack. F. Porath and T. Becker operate in the wide areas to provide the necessary width, ensuring the team can switch play quickly. These players must track back to support the back three when the team loses possession.

The attack features two forwards playing in close partnership. S. Machino and B. Pichler work together to pressure the opposition back line and make runs in behind. S. Machino often looks to link up play between the lines, while B. Pichler stays closer to the goal to find the feet of the striker or make movements to pull defenders away. The front two press in pairs to force a long ball from the opposition.

One major advantage for Kiel is the ability to create wide overloads when F. Porath and T. Becker push forward to support the attack. The formation also allows for a coordinated high press that can catch opponents during their build up. By having five players in the middle, they can often secure numerical superiority in the central zone to win the second ball.

This 3-5-2 formation creates a hard unit that is difficult to break down centrally. It is best suited for matches where the team can exploit spaces behind an advancing opposition back line.