Athlético Paranaense Football Formation

Starting Lineup

23- Santos
29- G. Benevídez
4- Diego Costa*
33- G. Mancha*
2- Gilberto Jr.*
5- Otávio*
8- J. Portilla*
37- L. Esquivel
10- B. Zapelli
23- R. Veiga*
9- K. Viveros

A high press and direct attacking intent define Athlético Paranaense in this 3-4-3 formation. The team looks to win the ball high up the pitch to force mistakes and launch quick attacks. This lineup is built to control wide areas while maintaining a heavy presence in the final third.

Santos guards the goal as the lone man in the defensive unit. A back three consists of G. Mancha, Diego Costa (C), and G. Benevídez. Diego Costa (C) acts as the central anchor, using his aerial strength to clear crosses and organize the line. G. Mancha and G. Benevídez cover the wide channels to intercept passes and stop runners before they reach the box. The unit stays compact to prevent gaps between the defenders.

The midfield operates with two central players and two wide midfielders. J. Portilla* and Otávio* sit in the middle to control the tempo and shield the defense. J. Portilla* works to break the line with vertical passes while Otávio* helps to press the opposition. On the flanks, Gilberto Jr.* and L. Esquivel provide much needed width. They are tasked to push up and overlap the attackers or track back to help the back three when defending deep.

An aggressive front line drives the pressure from the front. K. Viveros leads the attack as the lone striker, tasked to hold up the ball and pin the opposition defenders. B. Zapelli and R. Veiga* operate as wide attackers. B. Zapelli looks to cut inside from the left to create chances, while R. Veiga* uses his movement to find space on the right. These three forwards work together to press the opponent constantly.

This formation offers significant tactical advantages through wide overloads and central density. By having Gilberto Jr.* and L. Esquivel push high, the team can create two on one situations against opposing full backs. The presence of J. Portilla* and Otávio* in the middle allows Athlético Paranaense to win second balls and transition quickly from defense to attack. This setup makes it difficult for opponents to keep possession in the central zone.

The 3-4-3 formation provides a balanced way to hunt for the ball and exploit wide spaces. It is a perfect setup for matches where the team wants to dominate the opposition through constant pressure and verticality.