SL Benfica Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Trubin (S. Soares / D. Ferreira) · Dedic (Bah / L. Santos) · Antonia Silva (Tomàs Araújo) · Otamendi (G. Oliveira / J. Wynder) · Dahl (R. Obrador) · Enzo Barrenechea (Manu / N. Fèlix) · Richard Ríos (D. Prioste / J. Veloso) · F. Aursnes (L. Barreiro) · Dodi Lukebakio (G. Prestianni) · Andreas Schjelderup (Bruma) · Pavlidis (F. Ivanovic / H. Araújo)

SL Benfica aims to dominate through a high press and rapid transitions using a 5-2-3. The lineup focuses on winning the ball high up the pitch to catch opponents out of position. This formation is built to play a vertical game that punishes teams during the transition phase.

Trubin acts as the goalkeeper to organize the defensive unit. The team employs a back five that can shift into a narrow defensive block. Otamendi and Antonia Silva provide stability in the center, with Otamendi using his aerial strength to win headers. Enzo Barrenechea sits in the middle of the three to cover the space behind the wing backs. Dedic operates as an attacking wing back on the right to provide width, while Dahl pushes up on the left to support the attack. This defensive unit remains compact to deny the turn and protect the middle.

A double pivot controls the middle of the pitch. Richard Ríos and F. Aursnes work to connect the defensive line to the attackers. Richard Ríos works to shield the defense and win the second ball to keep play moving. F. Aursnes is able to carry the ball forward and drive into the half spaces to link the play. This midfield pairing ensures the team can recycle possession and protect the center of the park.

The attack features three players across the front to stretch the opposition. Pavlidis serves as a pressing centre-forward to pin the last defender and hold up the ball. Andreas Schjelderup and Dodi Lukebakio act as inverted wingers who cut inside to threaten the goal. Their movements create space for the wing backs to overlap the winger and provide crosses. This formation creates runs in behind and allows for quick combinations in tight spaces.

The team gains a tactical advantage through the ability to press high in coordinated waves. The front three can trigger a press that forces a long ball from the opponent. Another strength is the speed of transition that allows the team to hit in behind on the transition. By using the width of Dedic and Dahl, SL Benfica can switch play to isolate wide players in one on one situations.

This 5-2-3 formation offers a blend of defensive compactness and attacking threat. It is ideally suited for games against teams that attempt to play out from the back and leave space in behind.