Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

R. WEIDENFELLER · M. HUMMELS · DEDE · S. REUTER · M. REUS · L. PISZCZEK · C. WORNS · L. RICKEN · S. KEHL · R. LEWANDOWSKI · P. AUBAMEYANG

Borussia Dortmund looks to play a direct and vertical game using a 3-5-2 formation. This lineup aims to use quick transitions to catch the opposition off guard. The focus remains on high energy and moving the ball forward rapidly to exploit gaps in the defensive line.

R. Weidenfeller acts as the last line of defense in goal. The defensive unit operates with a back three consisting of M. Hummels, C. Worns, and L. Piszczek. M. Hummels acts as a ball playing defender who can distribute from deep, while L. Piszczek and C. Worns provide cover and strength in the air. The back three remains compact to protect the center of the pitch.

The midfield is a crowded area designed to control the middle of the park. S. Kehl and L. Ricken form a central pairing where they work to win the second ball and protect the back three. S. Kehl acts as the player who shields the defense, while L. Ricken looks to connect the lines. M. Reus plays as an attacking ten behind the two strikers, looking to find pockets of space and deliver key passes. The wide players, Dede at left mid and S. Reuter at right mid, provide the width. Dede and S. Reuter must track back to support the defense while also being ready to drive forward.

In the attacking phase, Borussia Dortmund utilizes two forwards in a partnership. R. Lewandowski and P. Aubameyang lead the line, often looking to play on the shoulder of the last defender. R. Lewandowski acts as a focal point who can hold up the ball, while P. Aubameyang uses his pace to hit in behind on the transition. The team builds attacks through the midfield with M. Reus operating in the hole to link the play. The wingers Dede and S. Reuter push up to stretch the defense and provide crossing options.

This formation provides a clear tactical advantage through its ability to compress the midfield and win second balls. The presence of M. Reus in the hole creates numerical superiority in the half spaces, making it difficult for opponents to mark everyone. Another strength is the speed of transition when P. Aubameyang and R. Lewandowski run into space behind a high defensive line.

This 3-5-2 formation relies on heavy work rates in the midfield to dominate the central areas. It is best suited for games against teams that play a wide game or leave large spaces behind their defenders.