Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Borussia Dortmund looks to control the game through a high press and rapid transitions, utilizing a 3-5-2 formation. This lineup is built to win the ball high up the pitch and strike quickly before the opposition can settle. The team aims to dominate the central areas while using the wide players to stretch the defence.

The defensive unit begins with the goalkeeper acting as the first line of distribution. In front of him, a back three provides a solid base. The central defender stays deep to sweep behind the line, while the left and right centre backs occupy the spaces to the sides. These defenders must be ready to step up to squeeze the space or drop into a low block when under pressure. The unit works together to defend zonally and ensure they do not get caught by runs in behind.

In the middle of the pitch, Borussia Dortmund employs a three-man midfield with a carrier and dedicated defensive roles. The two defensive midfielders, the LDM and RDM, work to shield the defence and win the second ball. They often drop between the centre backs to help play out from the back. Moving forward, the LCM and RCM provide energy to link the lines, while the CM operates as an attacking ten behind the two strikers. This midfield group is tasked to press aggressively to win the ball high and recycle possession when the first wave of pressure is broken.

The attacking front line uses two forwards in a partnership to trouble the opposition back line. The LS and RS work in close combinations, often looking to play one-two passes to split the defence with a through ball. While one striker may act as a target man to hold up the ball, the other looks to make runs in behind. The wide midfielders, the LM and RM, provide the necessary width to spread the play. They push high to overlap the wingers and deliver crosses into the box, creating constant pressure on the flanks.

A major advantage of this formation is the ability to create numerical superiority in midfield, making it difficult for opponents to pass through the centre. The team can also use wide overloads when the LM and RM push forward alongside the wing-backs. This setup allows for a quick transition from a mid-block into a direct attack, catching the opposition out of position.

This 3-5-2 formation relies on intense pressing and quick vertical movements to overwhelm the opponent. It is best suited for games against teams that struggle to play out from the back or cannot handle high pressure in central areas.