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Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Creation DateApril 20, 2026

Starting Lineup

1- G. Kobel
22- A. Rudiger*
3- W. Anton
4- N. Schlotterbeck
2- Yan Couto
8- F. Nmecha
9- S. Guirassy
11- K. Schade*
21- N. Brown*
13- A. Stach*
27- K. Adeyemi

Borussia Dortmund utilizes a 3-4-3 formation to play a high press and direct brand of football. This lineup focuses on winning the ball high up the pitch and using quick verticality to catch opponents off guard. The team aims to control games by squeezing the space in the middle and forcing turnovers in dangerous areas.

G. Kobel acts as the last line of defense, often staying high to sweep up long balls behind the back line. The defensive unit consists of a back three where N. Schlotterbeck covers the left side, W. Anton holds the right, and A. Rudiger acts as the central anchor. Schlotterbeck is known for his aggressive tackling and ability to step up into midfield. Anton and Rudiger provide aerial strength to defend set pieces and cross deliveries. The defenders stay compact to ensure they do not get split by through balls.

The midfield works in a central pairing of F. Nmecha and A. Stach to control the center of the pitch. A. Stach acts as the pivot to shield the defense and intercept passes, while F. Nmecha drives forward to link the play. On the flanks, Yan Couto and N. Brown operate as wide midfielders who provide much needed width. They must track back to help the defenders when the team loses possession and push up to support the attack when the team regains the ball.

The attacking front three features S. Guirassy as the lone striker. Guirassy is a physical presence who can hold up the ball and play with his back to goal. K. Schade and K. Adeyemi play as wide attackers who look to cut inside and create goal scoring chances. Adeyemi uses his significant pace to run in behind the defensive line. This front line presses the opposition defenders constantly to prevent them from playing out from the back.

Borussia Dortmund gains a tactical advantage through the ability to press high in coordinated waves. The three attackers and two wide midfielders can trap opponents against the touchline. Another strength is the wide overloads created when Yan Couto and N. Brown push high, forcing the opposing wingers to track back deep into their own half. This creates space in the channels for K. Schade and K. Adeyemi to exploit.

This 3-4-3 formation relies on high intensity and physical dominance to overwhelm the opposition. It is best suited for games against teams that play a slow build up and struggle to handle intense pressure.