SL Benfica Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Trubin · Di Maria · António (Silva) · Otamendi · Tomás (Araújo) · Akturkoglu · Florentino (Luis) · Pavlidis · Carreras · Aursnes · Kokçu

Focusing on high pressure and rapid transitions, SL Benfica utilizes a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup is built to play a vertical game that seeks to exploit gaps in the opposition defense through quick forward passes and heavy pressing. The goal is to dominate the central areas before launching wide attacks or direct balls toward the front line.

Trubin stands between the posts to organize the back line. The defensive unit operates with a back three consisting of António, Otamendi (C), and Florentino. Otamendi (C) uses his aerial strength and leadership to command the area, while António and Florentino provide cover and intercept passes. The wide defenders, Tomás and Carreras, act as wing backs to provide width. Tomás pushes up to overlap and deliver crosses, while Carreras provides balance on the left flank. This defensive unit can sit deep to protect the box or step up to compress the space between the lines.

The midfield relies on a double pivot to control the tempo and connect the defense to the attack. Aursnes and Kokçu work to shield the central defenders and break the lines with their passing. Aursnes provides energy to cover ground, while Kokçu looks to drive forward and support the creators. This two man unit must remain compact to prevent opponents from playing through the middle, ensuring the ball moves quickly from the back three to the attackers.

In the final third, the team uses three attackers to stretch the opponent. Pavlidis acts as the lone striker, working to hold up the ball and pin the center backs. Akturkoglu operates as an inverted winger on the left, looking to cut inside and create shooting opportunities. On the right, Di Maria uses his famous passing range and set piece delivery to manipulate the defense. This attacking trio presses high to force turnovers and creates constant movement to pull defenders out of position.

One major advantage for SL Benfica is the ability to create wide overloads through the runs of Tomás and Carreras. The presence of three attackers allows for a coordinated high press that can trap opponents in their own half. Additionally, the formation provides great security when defending deep because the three central defenders can mark up the opposition strikers effectively.

This 5-2-3 formation provides a strong balance between defensive solidity and attacking width. It is best suited for facing teams that play with a high line or those that struggle to cope with intense pressure in wide areas.