Austria National Football Team Formation

Starting Lineup

Lienhart · Friedl · Posch · P. Wimmer · Laimer · Arnautovic · Seiwald · Baumgartner · R. Schmid · Sabitzer · Pentz

Austria focuses on a high press and quick transitions using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup aims to squeeze the space in the opponent half and win the ball high up the pitch. By using a wide attacking front, the team looks to stretch the defence and create chances through rapid vertical movements.

Pentz acts as the goalkeeper, providing a reliable presence behind the back three. Lienhart operates as a ball playing defender who can start attacks from deep. Friedl provides strength in the air and covers wide areas, while Posch plays as a right sided centre back who can step up into midfield. This defensive unit works together to maintain a high line and win the second ball when the opposition tries to clear their lines.

The midfield works in a central pairing to control the tempo and provide stability. Seiwald works as a tireless engine to press aggressively and win the ball, while Sabitzer uses his passing range to connect the defensive and attacking lines. They are supported by wide players in the midfield roles. P. Wimmer operates on the left to push forward, and Laimer runs the right side to provide constant energy and support the back line. This group works to compress the midfield and deny the turn to opposing players.

In the final third, Austria uses three attackers to pin the last defender. Baumgartner plays as a wide forward on the left, often looking to cut inside and find space between the lines. R. Schmid provides width on the right, looking to get to the byline and deliver crosses. Arnautovic acts as the target man, holding up the ball to allow others to arrive late into the box. These forwards press the opposition back line to force a long ball and regain possession quickly.

This formation offers several tactical advantages, including the ability to press high in coordinated waves. The presence of Sabitzer and Seiwald allows for numerical superiority in midfield when they push forward. Additionally, the team can create wide overloads through the combination of the wide midfielders and the wingers.

The 3-4-3 formation makes Austria a dangerous side in transition-based games. This lineup is best suited for facing teams that play with a high defensive line and struggle to defend against quick breaks.