Excelsior Football Formation

Starting Lineup

CALVIN (RAATSIE) · STAN (HENDERIKX) · LEWIS (SCHOUTEN) · HAMDI (AKUJOBI) · SIMON (JANSSEN) · LENNARD (HARTJES) · MATHIJS (TIELEMANS) · MILIANO (JONATHANS) · GYAN (DE REGT) · JEROLLDINO (BERGRAAF) · MIKE (VAN DUINEN)

Excelsior utilizes a 4-2-4 formation to play a very aggressive and vertical brand of football. This lineup focuses on immediate pressure and quick transitions to catch the opponent out of position. By pushing so many players forward, Excelsior aims to overwhelm the opposition in the final third.

CALVIN guards the goal while the defensive unit works behind a high line. STAN and LEWIS act as the central defenders, where STAN focuses on aerial strength and LEWIS provides cover when the team pushes up. HAMDI and SIMON operate as full backs, tasked with tracking back quickly to prevent counter attacks and providing width when the ball moves forward. This back four must stay compact to avoid being split by long balls.

The midfield operates with a double pivot consisting of LENNARD and MATHIJS. These two players are the engines of the team, tasked with shielding the defense and breaking the line with their passing. MATHIJS must work to intercept play in the middle of the park, while LENNARD looks to connect the defense to the attack. Because there are only two players in this zone, they must be very disciplined to prevent the midfield from being bypassed.

The attacking unit is heavy with four players, using two wide wingers and two central forwards. GYAN and MILIANO stay wide to stretch the defense and look to cut inside to create chances. JEROLLDINO and MIKE act as the two central forwards, working to hold up the ball and press the opposing defenders high up the pitch. This front four is designed to create constant movement and force the opposition defenders into difficult decisions.

One major advantage of this formation is the ability to press high in coordinated waves, making it difficult for the opponent to build play from the back. The presence of GYAN and MILIANO on the flanks allows for quick switches of play to catch the defense off guard. Additionally, the dual strike partnership of JEROLLDINO and MIKE creates significant pressure on the central defenders, often leading to turnovers in dangerous areas.

This 4-2-4 formation is built for high intensity and direct attacking football. It is best suited for games where the team wants to dominate the opponent through sheer numbers in the attacking third.