Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Borussia Dortmund operates with a 5-2-3 formation that focuses on high pressing and rapid counter attacking. This lineup is built to absorb pressure before breaking quickly to catch the opponent out of position. By using a wide attacking front, the team aims to stretch the defence and create chances in transition.

Kobel sits in goal to command his area and organize the defensive unit. The back five operates as a narrow defensive block to deny the turn and squeeze the space in the middle. Can sits in the center to protect the area and win the second ball, while Anton and Süle provide cover as central defenders. Ryerson and Svensson act as attacking wing backs, pushing high to provide width and overlap the winger when the team has the ball.

The midfield operates as a double pivot to connect the defence and attack. Sabitzer and Brandt work to control the central zone and press in a mid-block. Sabitzer uses his high pressing intensity to win the ball high up the pitch, while Brandt uses his passing range to find teammates in advanced positions. These two must track back to help the wing backs and ensure the team does not get bypassed in the middle.

The front line features three attackers who create constant pressure on the opposition back line. F. Silva leads the attack as a lone striker to hold up the ball and link play with the midfield. Beier and Adeyemi play as wide attackers who cut inside to find space between the lines. This movement allows Ryerson and Svensson to get to the byline and deliver early crosses. The team relies on the pace of Adeyemi to hit in behind on the transition and create one on one situations.

One clear advantage for Borussia Dortmund is the compactness when defending a deep block. The heavy presence in the box makes it difficult for opponents to find space centrally. Additionally, the ability to create wide overloads from the wing backs forces the opposition to shift constantly, which opens up passing lanes for Brandt and Sabitzer to play through the lines and find the feet of the striker.

This 5-2-3 formation relies on a strong defensive base to fuel sudden attacking bursts. It is most effective against teams that play a high line and can be punished with direct runs into the space behind.