Austria National Football Team Formation

Starting Lineup

Alaba · Laimer · Baumgartner · Danso · Lienhart · Grillitsch · Schlager · Seiwald · R. Schmid · Sabitzer · Bachmann

Relying on a high press and rapid transitions, Austria operates with a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup is built to win the ball high up the pitch and hit in behind the defensive line.

Bachmann operates in goal to command the penalty area. The defensive unit uses a back five with Grillitsch sitting in the middle. Lienhart acts as the right center back to cover the wide area, and Danso plays as the left center back. Laimer functions as the right wing back to provide width, while Alaba plays as the left wing back. Alaba uses his passing range to play out from the back and find teammates in the half spaces. The defenders work to stay close together to maintain a narrow defensive block when required.

The midfield consists of a double pivot to control the central areas. Schlager and Seiwald occupy the two central roles to shield the defense. Schlager presses aggressively to win the ball high and drives the play forward, while Seiwald works to connect the defensive and attacking lines. They aim to win the second ball and recycle possession to keep the pressure on. This pairing helps the team progress through the thirds by moving the ball from the back to the front three.

A front three leads the attack with Baumgartner acting as the lone striker. R. Schmid plays as the left winger, and Sabitzer operates as the right winger. Sabitzer uses his driving runs and pressing intensity to stretch the defense. The wingers often cut inside to allow the wing backs to overlap. Baumgartner works to hold up the ball and link up play between the lines, while the front three press the opposition back line to force a long ball.

One tactical advantage for Austria is the ability to create wide overloads through the movement of Laimer and Alaba. The team can also press in coordinated waves to squeeze the space in the opponent half. This formation provides the ability to hit in behind on the transition with speed and catch tired defenders.

This 5-2-3 formation is built for high pressing and rapid attacking transitions. It is most effective when facing opponents who struggle to play short from the back under heavy pressure.