Estudiantes (LP) Football Formation

Starting Lineup

12- M. Mansilla
20- E. Meza
14- S. Boselli
6- S. Núñez*
3- N. Tagliafico*
5- S. Ascacíbar
8- Gabi Neves
11- B. Rollheiser*
25- C. Medina*
9- G. Carrillo
17- J. Burgos

Estudiantes (LP) relies on a high press and quick transitions using a 4-4-2. This formation is built to play a direct style of football where the team looks to win the ball high up the pitch and strike before the opponent can reset. By utilizing a compact block, Estudiantes (LP) aims to squeeze the space in the middle and force mistakes from the opposition.

M. Mansilla operates between the posts to guard the goal. The defensive unit maintains a flat back four that can shift together to maintain compactness. S. Boselli and S. Núñez act as the central defenders, where Boselli provides aerial strength and Núñez covers the space behind the full backs. E. Meza and N. Tagliafico play as the wide defenders, tasked to defend the flanks and provide width when the team plays out from the back. This unit works to hold a disciplined line and deny runners through the middle.

A double pivot controls the center of the pitch. S. Ascacíbar and Gabi Neves form the central pairing, with Ascacíbar acting to shield the defence and win the second ball. Neves works to connect the defensive and attacking lines by carrying the ball forward into the half spaces. In front of them, B. Rollheiser and C. Medina play as attacking midfielders on the flanks. They are expected to press aggressively to win the ball high and support the strikers through quick combinations.

The attacking line consists of two forwards in a partnership. J. Burgos and G. Carrillo lead the press from the front to pin the last defender of the opposition. Burgos often acts to hold up the ball, allowing the midfielders to push up. Carrillo looks to make runs in behind to exploit space during transitions. The team uses these two to attack in combinations, often looking to isolate a one on one wide or deliver a cross into the box when the wingers get to the byline.

This formation offers several tactical advantages. The double pivot provides stability to prevent being bypassed in midfield, while the two strikers make it difficult for opposition centre backs to defend alone. Estudiantes (LP) also benefits from the ability to press in a mid-block, which forces the opponent to go direct and play long balls.

This 4-4-2 lineup is a rugged setup designed to control the tempo through physical presence and verticality. It is best suited for matches against teams that struggle to play under pressure or when looking to play on the counter.