Boca Football Formation
Starting Lineup
1. MARCHESIN24. BARINAGA
2. DI LOLLO
32. COSTA
3. BLANCO
5. PAREDES
18. DELGADO
25. ASCACIBAR
22. ZENÓN
16. MERENTIEL
37. GELINI
Prioritizing rapid transitions and defensive compactness, Boca operates within a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup focuses on quick counter attacks that look to exploit space behind the opponent. The team aims to sit deep to draw teams in before breaking the lines with direct vertical passes.
In goal, MARCHESIN acts as the last line of defense. The back line consists of a central trio where PAREDES holds the center while DI LOLLO and COSTA occupy the left and right slots of the back three. This trio provides aerial strength and coverage. BARINAGA and BLANCO act as wing backs who provide the necessary width. BARINAGA pushes high to overlap in the final third, while BLANCO covers the flank and tracks back to support the defense. The unit works to remain compact and close the gaps between the defenders.
A double pivot occupies the center of the pitch to link the defense to the attack. ASCACIBAR and DELGADO sit in front of the back five to shield the defense and intercept passes. ASCACIBAR drives forward to carry the ball into the attacking half, while DELGADO connects the play by recycling possession. These two midfielders must work hard to cover the ground between the lines and ensure the team is not overrun during transitions.
The attacking front line utilizes three attackers to stretch the opposition. MERENTIEL leads the line as a lone striker to hold up the ball and occupy central defenders. On the flanks, ZENÓN and GELINI operate as wide attackers. ZENÓN likes to cut inside to create chances, while GELINI stays wide to provide crosses. The forwards press the opposition back line immediately upon losing possession to prevent easy buildup.
Boca gains a significant advantage through the wide overloads created by BARINAGA and BLANCO. These wing backs allow the wide attackers to move into central areas, creating numerical superiority in the final third. Additionally, the five man defense offers great compactness when defending deep, making it hard for opponents to find space between the lines. The speed of transition from the double pivot to the front three makes the team very dangerous on the break.
This 5-2-3 formation relies on a strong defensive block and lethal counter attacking movements. It is a setup best suited for matches against teams that dominate possession and leave space behind their high defensive line.