Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Borussia Dortmund aims to play a high press and direct game with this 3-4-3 formation. The team looks to win the ball high up the pitch and move quickly toward the goal. This lineup is built to stretch the opposition through wide channels while maintaining a heavy presence in the central areas during transitions.

Gregor Kobel acts as the last line of defense, often sweeping behind the line to deal with long balls. The defensive unit operates as a back three, featuring Anton in the middle to organize the line. Nino Schlotterbeck plays as the left centre-back, using his height and strength to win the header in defensive duels. Niklas Sule operates as the right centre-back, providing cover and using his physical presence to block runners. This three man unit works to hold a high line and squeeze the space in the middle of the pitch.

The midfield operates with a central pairing that connects the defensive unit to the front three. Pascal Groß plays as a left central midfielder, looking to recycle possession and find teammates in advanced positions. Maximilian Sabitzer works alongside him as the right central midfielder, driving forward with the ball to break the line. On the flanks, Julian Ryerson Svensson and Yan Couto act as wide midfielders who provide the width. They are tasked to track back and defend while also being ready to overlap the winger when the team has the ball.

Borussia Dortmund utilizes three attackers to pin the opposition backline. Karim Adeyemi plays as a left winger, using his pace to make runs in behind the defense. Donyell Malen operates on the right side to cut inside and create chances. Serhou Guirassy acts as the lone striker and a pressing centre-forward, working to hold up the ball and find the feet of his teammates. The attacking unit works to pull wide to create space for late runs from the midfield.

This formation provides clear tactical advantages through wide overloads and a coordinated press. By using Couto and Svensson high up the pitch, the team can create numerical superiority on the flanks. The combination of a compact back three and a mobile midfield allows the team to win the second ball quickly and launch rapid attacks.

The 3-4-3 formation relies on intense pressing and quick verticality to overwhelm opponents. This lineup is best suited for matches against teams that play a high line or struggle to defend against rapid transitions.