Austria National Football Team Formation

Starting Lineup

P. Wimmer · Friedl · Lienhart · Danso · Baumgartner · Grillitsch · Seiwald · Laimer · R. Schmid · Sabitzer · Lucic

Austria relies on a high press and verticality through a 3-4-3. This lineup focuses on winning the ball high up the pitch and progressing quickly through the thirds to catch the opposition off balance. The primary intention is to squeeze the space and disrupt the opponent before they can build play or establish control in the middle of the park.

Lucic operates as the goalkeeper to guard the net and organize the line. The defensive unit functions as a back three featuring Friedl, Lienhart, and Danso. Danso and Friedl act as wide centre-backs to cover the flanks and track back, while Lienhart works as a ball playing defender to help play out from the back. They often hold a high line to remain compact and support the midfield as the game moves forward.

The midfield is built around a central pairing of Seiwald and Grillitsch. Seiwald is tasked to press aggressively and win the second ball to regain possession, while Grillitsch uses his passing range to connect the defensive and attacking lines. Laimer and P. Wimmer occupy the wide roles to provide width across the pitch. Laimer uses his high intensity to carry the ball forward, and P. Wimmer works to recycle possession and switch play to find open teammates.

Up front, Baumgartner acts as a pressing centre-forward to pin the last defender and force long balls. Sabitzer and R. Schmid play as wide attackers who often cut inside to create central threats. Sabitzer is known for his driving runs and long range shooting, which forces the opposition to step up. This front line looks to attack in combinations and strike on the transition to hit in behind the defense.

A key tactical advantage for Austria is the ability to press in coordinated waves. The forwards and midfielders work together to trigger a press and win it back high up the pitch. The team also benefits from the speed of transition, using the wide movements of Laimer and P. Wimmer to stretch the defence and create opportunities to play through the lines.

This 3-4-3 formation relies on an aggressive pressing identity to dominate the game. It is best suited for facing opponents that try to play short from the back and struggle under high pressure throughout the match.