Brazil National Football Team Formation

Starting Lineup

A. Sandro · Fabinho · G. Magalhães · Marquinhos · Cunha · Vinicius Jr · Raphinha · L. Paquetá · B. Guimarães · Casemiro · Alisson

Brazil focuses on a heavy high press and quick transitions in this 5-2-3 formation. The Selecao looks to win the ball high up the pitch to catch opponents out of position. This lineup is built to strike with speed and use wide players to stretch the defence.

Alisson sits between the posts to guard the goal and act as a sweeper behind the high line. The back five features a central trio of Casemiro, Marquinhos, and G. Magalhães. Casemiro acts as the anchor, while Marquinhos and G. Magalhães defend zonally and win the header when balls are played long. The wide defenders A. Sandro and Fabinho play as attacking wing backs to provide width. They push high to support the attack but must track back to form a compact defensive block when the team loses possession.

A double pivot provides the engine room for the Brazil midfield. L. Paquetá and B. Guimarães operate in the central space to connect the defence and attack. Paquetá looks to receive on the half-turn and play through the lines, while B. Guimarães works to win the second ball and carry the ball forward. These two must cover a lot of ground to protect the back line and ensure they do not get outnumbered in the middle.

The attacking unit uses three forwards to pin the opposition back line. Vinicius Jr operates as an inverted winger on the left, looking to cut inside and take on defenders with his dribbling style. Raphinha plays on the right wing, often looking to get to the byline to deliver a cross. Cunha plays as the lone striker, working to hold up the ball and link up play with the wide men. The front three press in pairs from the front to force a long ball from the opposition.

This formation offers several tactical advantages. The wing backs of A. Sandro and Fabinho create wide overloads to help the wingers. The presence of three central defenders allows the team to maintain compactness when defending. Furthermore, the high positioning of Vinicius Jr and Raphinha allows the team to hit in behind on the transition with extreme speed.

The Selecao utilizes this formation to dominate games through intense pressing and rapid counter attacks. It is best suited for facing teams that play a high line and leave space behind their defenders.