Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

High intensity pressing and rapid transitions define Borussia Dortmund in this 5-3-2 formation. The lineup aims to win the ball high up the pitch and quickly strike at the heart of the opposition. This system creates a platform for direct football that relies on heavy running and verticality to break through defensive lines.

Kobel stands between the posts to organize the back line. A back three consisting of Palinha, Kounde, and Anton provides a solid foundation. Palinha acts as the central anchor, while Kounde and Anton cover the channels to intercept runners. On the flanks, Ryerson and Bensebaini push high as wing backs to provide width and support the attack. These wide players must track back quickly to maintain a compact block when the team loses possession.

The midfield works in a three man unit to control the center of the pitch. Grob and Tonali sit deeper to shield the defense and break up play, with Tonali providing energy to win second balls. Brandt operates as the attacking ten, finding pockets of space to connect the midfield to the forward line. This trio works to move the ball forward through quick passing and movement, ensuring the team stays compact in both phases of play.

Borussia Dortmund employs two strikers to lead the line. Guirassy and Solanke act as the primary targets, occupying the central defenders to create space. Guirassy can hold up the ball to bring others into play, while Solanke makes runs into the channels to stretch the defense. The two attackers press in unison to force mistakes from the opposition buildup. Width comes primarily from the wing backs, who cross the ball into the box for the forwards.

This formation offers significant defensive stability through its three central defenders and a compact midfield block. The team can also create wide overloads as Ryerson and Bensebaini overlap the midfielders to pin the opposition back. By using two strikers, the lineup can isolate defenders in one on one situations during quick transitions. The ability to shift from a deep block to a high press allows the team to control the tempo of the match.

The 5-3-2 formation allows Borussia Dortmund to remain defensively solid while remaining dangerous on the break. It is a lineup best suited for facing teams that dominate possession and leave space behind their midfield.