SL Benfica Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Samuel Soares · Florentino (Luis) · António (Silva) · Otamendi · Tomás (Araújo) · Akturkoglu · Dahl · Pavlidis · Carreras · Kokçu · Bruma

SL Benfica aims to dominate through high pressing and quick vertical transitions using a 3-4-3 formation. This lineup relies on controlling the central zones while utilizing wide players to stretch the opposition. The team works to win the ball high up the pitch to catch opponents out of position during the transition from defense to attack.

Samuel Soares guards the goal as the last line of defense for SL Benfica. In front of him, the back three consists of Carreras, António, and Otamendi. Otamendi, who serves as the captain (C), uses his aerial strength and reading of the game to lead the line. Carreras and António provide cover on the sides of the central block, with António often dropping deeper to sweep up long balls. The unit functions as a compact wall that shifts side to side to block passing lanes.

The midfield functions as a double pivot with two central players alongside wide midfielders. Kokçu and Florentino occupy the central roles to control the tempo and shield the defenders. Kokçu uses his passing range to break the lines, while Florentino focuses on intercepting play and holding his position. On the flanks, Tomás and Dahl act as wing backs to provide width. They must track back to help the defense and push up to support the attack.

The attacking front line features three players designed to pin the opposition back. Pavlidis acts as the lone striker to hold up the ball and occupy the central defenders. On either side, Bruma and Akturkoglu operate as wide attackers. Bruma looks to cut inside to create goalscoring chances, while Akturkoglu uses his movement to find space between the lines. This front three presses intensely to prevent the opponent from building play from the back.

One major tactical advantage is the ability to create wide overloads when Tomás and Dahl push high to support the wingers. The team also finds success through the passing range of Kokçu, who can switch play quickly to the flanks. By using the central strength of Otamendi and the ball retention of Florentino, the team maintains control in the middle of the pitch. These elements allow the lineup to transition from a defensive block to an attacking wave very quickly.

This 3-4-3 formation is built to dominate games through aggressive pressing and wide play. It is best suited for facing opponents that play with a high defensive line or struggle to cope with rapid transitions.