Lazio Football Formation

Starting Lineup

S.Esposito · Motta · Khusanov · Nuno (Tavares) · Fort · Taylor · Bergvall · Alex Scott · Solet · Mitoma · Zaccagni

Lazio relies on a heavy high press and quick transitions, operating primarily within a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup is built to squeeze the opposition in their own half and hit them quickly when the ball is won. The intent is to use the width of the pitch to stretch the opponent while keeping a compact block when the ball is lost.

Motta acts as the last line of defense, staying alert to sweeping duties behind the back five. The defensive unit utilizes a back three consisting of Alex Scott, Khusanov, and Solet. Alex Scott acts as a central anchor, while Khusanov and Solet provide cover and presence in the air. The wide defenders, Nuno as the LWB and Fort as the RWB, are tasked to push high up the pitch to provide width and support the attacking moves. These wing backs must track back quickly to maintain the defensive integrity of Lazio when the opposition breaks.

The midfield functions as a double pivot consisting of Taylor and Bergvall. These two players must work hard to cover the ground between the defensive line and the forwards. Bergvall and Taylor are responsible for winning the second ball and immediately carrying the ball forward to initiate attacks. They act as the engine room, connecting the back three to the front three by recycling possession and finding the attackers in space.

Lazio uses three attackers across the front to pin the opposition defense. Zaccagni operates on the left as an inverted winger, while Mitoma takes the right flank with his signature dribbling style to cut inside. S.Esposito leads the line as a pressing centre-forward, working to disrupt the opponent's build up. This front line is designed to create runs in behind and allow for cutbacks from the byline when the wing backs overlap. The combination of Zaccagni and Mitoma allows the team to isolate wide players in one on one situations.

This formation offers significant tactical advantages through the use of wide overloads when Fort and Nuno join the attack. By pushing the wing backs high, Lazio creates numerical superiority in the final third. The team also benefits from a high press in coordinated waves, with the front three and the midfield pressing together to force a long ball from the opposition.

The 5-2-3 formation creates a hard block that is difficult to break through centrally. It is best suited for matches against teams that want to keep possession, allowing Lazio to sit in a mid-block and strike on the break.