Borussia Dortmund Football Formation

Starting Lineup

LEBEDEV (80) · VRANJEŠ (84) · AVALANXE (81) · OLE MOE (85) · BRYAN-BROWN (83) · R. LEITÃO (85) · P. BORG (88) · JR CARDOSO (85) · NDZIESSIÉ (88) · V. ÖZMEN (88) · M. PALAFOX (78)

Borussia Dortmund looks to play a vertical game with a direct 4-4-2 formation. The identity relies on winning the ball and hitting the opposition quickly to exploit gaps in their defensive lines. This setup aims to stretch the defence and create quick scoring opportunities through high intensity.

Lebedev sits between the posts to act as the last line of defence. The back four operates as a flat back four to maintain compactness. VRANJEŠ acts as a defensive wing back to protect the flank, while AVALANXE provides more width on the left. In the center, R. LEITÃO and M. PALAFOX defend the zone, with R. LEITÃO often tasked to cover ground while M. PALAFOX holds the line. This unit works to squeeze the space between the midfield and the defensive line.

The midfield uses a double pivot to control the central area. BRYAN-BROWN and OLE MOE form the central pairing, where BRYAN-BROWN works to shield the defence and OLE MOE looks to carry the ball forward. Ahead of them, P. BORG and JR CARDOSO operate as wide midfielders. JR CARDOSO can cut inside to find space, while P. BORG seeks to provide width and deliver crosses. This midfield group is responsible for connecting the defence to the attack and pressing in a mid-block to win the ball back.

A two-man partnership leads the attack with V. ÖZMEN and NDZIESSIÉ playing as the forwards. NDZIESSIÉ acts as a pressing centre-forward to bother the opposition centre-backs, while V. ÖZMEN looks to play off him. They work together to make runs in behind and combine in tight spaces to break the line. The front two also help to trigger a press from the front to force a long ball from the opposition.

Borussia Dortmund finds success through the speed of transition and the ability to isolate wide players in one on one situations. The formation allows for wide overloads when the wingers and full backs join up. This creates many chances for cutbacks from the byline or early deliveries into the box.

This 4-4-2 formation is built for a team that wants to play with high intensity and directness. It is best suited for matches against opponents who play a high line and can be caught out on the transition.