Újpest Football Formation
Starting Lineup
Banai · Bese · Duarte · Kobouri · Fiola · Nunes · Geiger · Rasak · Lacoux · Karamoko · BrodicSeeking to control the tempo through central density, Újpest operates with a 3-5-2 formation. This lineup is built to play a vertical game that relies on quick transitions and strong central presence to break lines. The team aims to win the second ball in the middle of the pitch to sustain pressure and keep the opposition pinned back.
Banai guards the goal as the last line of defense. The defensive unit functions with a back three consisting of Duarte, Fiola, and Nunes. Duarte acts as the central figure to command the area, while Fiola and Nunes provide cover and depth. This back three allows the team to defend zonally and shift as a unit to squeeze the space when the ball moves wide. They must hold the line to prevent runs in behind.
The midfield is a powerhouse designed to dominate the center of the pitch. A double pivot of Bese and Kobouri provides a shield for the defense, with Bese often looking to intercept play and Kobouri helping to recycle possession. Lacoux operates in the center to connect the defensive and attacking lines, acting as the main carrier to move the ball forward. Geiger and Rasak occupy the half-spaces as attacking midfielders, looking to arrive late into the box or create chances from deep.
In the final third, the team uses two forwards in a partnership. Brodic and Karamoko work closely together to link up play between the lines. Brodic often plays as the focal point to hold up the ball, while Karamoko looks to use his pace to hit in behind on the transition. The attacking movements are designed to create wide overloads and cutbacks from the byline when the midfielders push high.
This formation offers clear tactical advantages, particularly the numerical superiority in midfield that helps Újpest control the rhythm of the game. By using a three man central block, they achieve great compactness when defending. This makes it difficult for opponents to play through the middle, forcing them to the flanks where the team can double up on wide players.
Újpest utilizes this 3-5-2 to dominate central areas and strike quickly through their two forwards. This formation is best suited for matches against teams that play with a single pivot or wide attacking players.