Botafogo (SP) Football Formation

Starting Lineup

1- Victor Souza
3- A. Cassiano
5- Edson
4- R. Milhorim
2- Jeferson
8- Wesley Dias
10- L. Maciel
6- G. Risso
7- J. Cafú
11- B. Xavier*
9- Alexandre Jesus

Botafogo (SP) aims to play a high press and vertical style of football using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup is designed to squeeze the space in the opposition half and create quick transitions to catch the defense out of position. The team wants to control the tempo by winning the ball high up the pitch and immediately looking to progress through the thirds.

Victor Souza acts as the last line of defense in goal. The defensive unit operates with a back three consisting of A. Cassiano, Edson, and R. Milhorim. A. Cassiano plays as the right centre-back while R. Milhorim occupies the left centre-back role. Edson sits in the middle to command the area and organize the line. The unit works to defend zonally, with the wide defenders ready to step up to engage attackers before they can turn.

The midfield is composed of a four man line that provides both width and central control. L. Maciel and Wesley Dias operate as a central pairing to connect the defense and the attack. L. Maciel works to drive forward with the ball while Wesley Dias helps to shield the defense and recycle possession. On the flanks, Jeferson and G. Risso provide the necessary width. Jeferson pushes up as a left midfielder and G. Risso moves as a right midfielder to help the attackers and support the wide areas.

In the attacking phase, Botafogo (SP) utilizes three players across the front line to stretch the defense. Alexandre Jesus acts as the lone striker, tasked to hold up the ball and find the feet of his teammates. J. Cafú plays as a left winger and B. Xavier plays as a right winger. J. Cafú and B. Xavier often look to cut inside to create central overloads. This front three works to press the opposition back line from the front, looking to trigger a press as soon as the ball is lost.

This formation offers several tactical advantages for the club. The team can create wide overloads when Jeferson and G. Risso push up to support the wingers. They also gain numerical superiority in central areas when the midfielders combine in tight spaces. The ability to press high in coordinated waves allows them to win the ball back in dangerous areas and strike quickly.

Botafogo (SP) uses this 3-4-3 to overwhelm opponents through aggressive pressing and rapid verticality. This lineup is best suited for games where the opponent struggles to play out from the back under pressure.