Al-Ahli (KSA) Football Formation

Starting Lineup

E. Mendy · A. Majrashi · M. Demiral · Roger Ibanez · M. Dams · F. Kessie' · V. ATANGANA · E. MILLOT · R. Mahrez · Galeno · I. Toney

Al-Ahli (KSA) look to play with a direct and defensively solid identity using a 5-4-1 formation. This lineup is built to sit deep and absorb pressure before hitting opponents on the break. The team focuses on keeping a compact shape to deny space between the lines, making it very difficult for opposition teams to play through the middle.

Edouard Mendy starts between the posts to guard the goal. The back line functions as a narrow defensive block featuring three central defenders in M. Demiral, Roger Ibanez, and F. Kessie'. Demiral and Ibanez provide aerial strength and presence in the middle, while Kessie' acts to cover the space behind them. On the flanks, A. Majrashi and M. Dams act as attacking wing backs who must track back to form a five man line when defending. This unit works together to hold the line and prevent any runs in behind.

In front of the defence, a flat four-man midfield works to compress the space. V. ATANGANA sits as a single pivot to shield the back three and win the second ball. Beside him, R. Mahrez and Galeno operate in the half spaces to connect the lines, with R. Mahrez using his renowned technical ability and crossing to provide service. E. MILLOT works alongside the group to recycle possession and help the team transition. This midfield unit stays close together to prevent the opposition from finding passing lanes through the center.

The attack relies on a lone striker, I. Toney, who acts as a pressing centre-forward to disrupt the opposition back line. Toney is tasked to hold up the ball and wait for support to arrive. When Al-Ahli win the ball, the team looks to move quickly with the wing backs, A. Majrashi and M. Dams, pushing high to provide width. The goal is to create combinations between the wide players and the striker to find ways to break the line. Toney often looks to run in behind or link up play with the incoming midfielders.

This formation offers clear tactical advantages such as extreme compactness when defending in a low block. The team can also create wide overloads when the wing backs push forward to join the midfielders. By staying narrow, Al-Ahli (KSA) force opponents to the wings and then quickly transition to exploit the space left behind.

This 5-4-1 lineup is a defensive way to play that relies on strength and quick movement. It is best suited for games against teams that dominate possession and require a side that can sit deep and counter at pace.