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Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Creation DateAugust 29, 2025

Starting Lineup

Kobel · Sule · Anton · Bensebaini · Ryerson · Sabitzer · Chukwuemeka · Svensson · Bellingham · Adeyemi · Guirassy

Borussia Dortmund plays with a high press and a vertical identity through a 3-4-3 formation. The main goal is to win the ball high up the pitch to launch immediate attacks. This lineup focuses on catching the opposition in transition to strike before they can settle.

Kobel stays between the posts to command the area and sweep behind the defense. The back line uses a back three consisting of Sule, Anton, and Bensebaini. Sule uses his aerial strength to win headers and provide cover on the right. Anton acts as the central defender to hold the line and organize the unit. Bensebaini operates on the left to manage the wide space and protect the flank. The defensive unit works together to defend zonally and maintain a compact block.

The midfield functions with a four man unit featuring Sabitzer and Chukwuemeka in the center. Sabitzer acts as a carrier to drive the ball forward and connect the defensive and attacking lines. Chukwuemeka presses aggressively to win the ball in the middle third. Svensson and Ryerson provide necessary width as wide midfielders. They shift to cover the wide areas and help the back three when the team needs to sit deep. This allows the midfield to control the tempo and recycle possession when needed.

Guirassy operates as a lone striker to hold up the ball and lead the press from the front. Adeyemi and Bellingham join him to form the attacking trio. Adeyemi uses his pace to run in behind the opposition defense while Bellingham cuts inside from the right to arrive late into the box. The forwards work to pin the last defender and create space for the midfield to enter. This creates chances through rapid combinations and the ability to hit in behind on the transition.

A major tactical advantage is the ability to press high in coordinated waves to force a long ball. The wide players Svensson and Ryerson allow for wide overloads when they overlap the wingers to stretch the defence. Borussia Dortmund also benefits from a high speed of transition when the players win the ball and quickly play through the lines.

This 3-4-3 formation is designed for aggressive, high pressing football. It is best suited for games against opponents that struggle to play short from the back.