Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Borussia Dortmund looks to win the ball back high up the pitch and strike with immense speed. This 5-2-3 formation works to create a compact block while remaining ready to hit in behind on the transition. The team wants to use the width of the pitch to stretch the defence and create scoring chances through quick movement.

Kobel stands between the posts to command the area and act as the last line of defence. The back line functions as a back three with Can acting as the central man to sweep behind the line and hold the position. Anton and Süle sit on either side of him as ball playing centre backs to help play out from the back. Svensson and Ryerson operate as attacking wing backs to provide width and cover the flanks. These players must track back to prevent being bypassed in wide areas and ensure the team maintains a narrow defensive block when the ball is on the opposite side.

The midfield functions as a double pivot to control the center of the pitch. Sabitzer works to shield the defence and win the second ball to keep play moving. Brandt acts as a carrier to drive forward with the ball and connect the defensive and attacking lines. This pair must work hard to compress the midfield and deny the turn to opposition playmakers. They also need to step up to trigger a press when the ball enters their zone to regain possession quickly for Borussia Dortmund.

Guirassy leads the line as a pressing centre forward to pin the last defender. He uses his strength to hold up the ball and lay it off to the runners. Beier and Adeyemi play as wide attackers who cut inside to create goal scoring opportunities. While Beier looks to find the feet of the striker, Adeyemi uses his pace to knock it in behind the opposition defence. This formation creates many runs in behind and allows the wing backs to overlap the winger to send crosses into the box.

One major strength of this lineup is the ability to press high in coordinated waves. When the forwards press, the wing backs and midfielders squeeze the space to force a long ball. Another advantage is the speed of transition when the team wins the ball. The team can quickly switch play to the wide areas to isolate a one on one situation for the wingers. This creates constant pressure on the opposition back line.

This 5-2-3 system provides a solid foundation for a team that wants to play with high intensity and verticality. It is best suited for games against teams that rely on possession and can be punished on the counter at pace.