Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Borussia Dortmund looks to dominate through a high press and rapid verticality. This team operates in a 3-4-3 formation designed to squeeze the space and force turnovers high up the pitch. The lineup focuses on winning the ball back quickly to launch quick attacks before the opponent can settle into a rhythm.

Kobel stands between the posts to organize the defensive unit. The defense works as a back three consisting of Bensebaini, Anton, and Süle. Bensebaini and Süle act as wide centre-backs to cover the flanks, while Anton occupies the center to defend zonally. Süle uses his aerial strength to win the header and clear the lines during crosses. When the team pushes up, they maintain a high line to keep the unit compact and prevent long balls from bypassing the midfield.

The midfield functions with Sabitzer and Brandt acting as a double pivot to control the central area. Sabitzer works to carry the ball forward and drives into the middle, while Brandt looks to play through the lines to link the defense to the attacking unit. Ryerson and Svensson act as the wide players to provide width across the pitch. Ryerson and Svensson push up to overlap the wingers, creating overloads on the flanks. They must also track back to support the three defenders when the team faces a counter attack.

Up front, Guirassy acts as the central striker to hold up the ball and provide a focal point for the attack. He works with Adeyemi and Beier to press the opposition back line. Adeyemi uses his pace to make runs in behind the defense, while Beier cuts inside from the wing to create scoring opportunities. The front three combine in tight spaces to move the ball toward the goal through quick combinations and movement.

A significant advantage for Borussia Dortmund is the speed of transition when they win the ball high up the pitch. The ability of Adeyemi and Beier to exploit space allows the team to hit in behind on the transition very effectively. Furthermore, the wing backs provide wide overloads that pull the opposition out of their defensive block.

This 3-4-3 formation is built to overwhelm opponents through aggressive pressing and direct attacking movement. It is most effective against teams that try to play short from the back and leave space behind their defensive line.