Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Anton · Bensebaini · Gadou · Svensson · Ryerson · Veerman · Chukwuemeka · Sabitzer · Beier · F. Silva · Kobel

Borussia Dortmund prefers to control games through a high press and verticality using a 3-5-2 formation. This lineup aims to squeeze the space in the middle of the pitch and win the ball high up the pitch to catch opponents before they can settle. The team looks to drive forward quickly once the ball is recovered, utilizing the width provided by the wingbacks to stretch the defence.

Kobel sits between the posts to organize the defensive unit. The back three features Anton as the central figure, with Bensebaini acting as the left centre-back and Gadou as the right centre-back. Anton looks to command the line and clear the lines when under pressure, while Bensebaini and Gadou provide cover to ensure the line remains compact. This defensive unit functions as a narrow defensive block to protect the central areas, forcing play out wide where they can engage the opposition.

In front of the back three, the midfield works to control the tempo and provide stability. Veerman acts as a single pivot to shield the defence and recycle possession when building from the back. Sabitzer and Chukwuemeka operate as two central midfielders, with Sabitzer looking to carry the ball forward and Chukwuemeka working to break the line with his driving runs. Svensson and Ryerson act as the wide midfielders, providing the necessary width to overlap the wingers and stretch the opposition.

The attack relies on a partnership of two forwards to pin the last defender. Beier and F. Silva operate as a duo, with Beier looking to make runs in behind while F. Silva works to hold up the ball and link up play between the lines. They press from the front to force long balls and disrupt the opposition build up. The movement of these two players creates space for Sabitzer and Chukwuemeka to arrive late into the box during attacking phases.

One major advantage for Borussia Dortmund is the ability to create wide overloads through the movements of Svensson and Ryerson. Because they push high, they force the opposition wingers to track back, often leaving them outnumbered. Another strength is the ability to press high in coordinated waves, as the front two and the midfield trio work together to squeeze the space and win the second ball in dangerous areas.

This 3-5-2 formation provides a strong central presence that is perfect for dominating teams that try to play through the middle. It is best suited for matches where the team needs to win the ball back quickly and strike on the transition.