Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

kobel · ryerson · kounde · anton · anselmino · bensebaini · guirassy · watkins · mastantuono · tonali · bellingham

Dominating the pitch through heavy pressing and verticality defines Borussia Dortmund in this 3-5-2 formation. This lineup focuses on winning the ball back high up the field to launch quick attacks. The team seeks to control the center of the pitch while utilizing the width of the wing backs to stretch the opposition defense.

Kobel stands between the posts to organize the back three. Anton, Anselmino, and Kounde form a central defensive unit that relies on strong marking and interception. Anton and Kounde provide the physical presence needed to defend aerial threats, while Anselmino covers the spaces behind the midfield. The defensive unit stays compact to prevent teams from breaking the lines.

The central midfield operates with a high degree of energy. Tonali acts as the pivot to shield the back three and break up opposition play. Bellingham drives forward from the right side, using his ball carrying ability to move the team into the final third. Mastantuono operates as an attacking midfielder behind the forwards, looking to create chances with quick passes. Ryerson and Bensebaini provide the necessary width, acting as wing backs who cover the entire flank.

In the attacking third, Guirassy and Watkins lead the line as two mobile forwards. Guirassy works to hold up the ball and bring others into play, while Watkins uses his pace to run into the channels. This pair works together to press the opposition defenders constantly. The movement of Bensebaini and Ryerson allows the attackers to stay central and exploit the space created by the wide players.

Borussia Dortmund gains a massive advantage through numerical superiority in the central midfield area. The way Ryerson and Bensebaini overlap creates wide overloads that force defenders out of position. This formation also allows the team to press in coordinated waves, making it very difficult for opponents to build play from the back.

This 3-5-2 lineup is built for a high intensity game that relies on winning the ball back quickly. It is best suited for facing teams that struggle to play through a heavy central press.