Austria National Football Team Formation

Starting Lineup

P. Wimmer · Veratschnig · Lienhart · Danso · Friedl · Schlager · Seiwald · Grüll · Wanner · R. Schmid · Schlager

Austria aims to play a high press with a vertical style of play using a 3-4-3. This formation is built to win it back high up the pitch and move the ball forward quickly through the thirds. The lineup relies on aggressive movement to stretch the defence and create chances in transition.

Schlager starts in goal to command the area. The back line functions as a back three where Lienhart acts as the ball playing defender to help play out from the back. Danso provides aerial strength and cover on the right side of the central unit while Friedl covers the left. This defensive unit can shift into a mid-block when the team drops back or step up to set the offside trap to squeeze the space.

The midfield operates with two central players and two wide players. Seiwald and Schlager play in a double pivot to shield the defence and win the second ball. Seiwald works to protect the middle while Schlager looks to carry the ball forward and link the defensive and attacking lines. Veratschnig and P. Wimmer act as wide players who provide width and are expected to track back to help the defenders.

The attack features three forwards working in close combinations. Grüll plays as a pressing centre-forward to pin the last defender and disrupt the opposition build up. Wanner and R. Schmid act as wide wingers who cut inside to create numbers in the middle. Wanner looks to isolate a one on one wide while R. Schmid aims to arrive late into the box. This front line is designed to create runs in behind and facilitate quick attacks.

Austria gains a major advantage through the ability to press high in coordinated waves. The presence of three attackers and two wide midfielders allows the team to win it back high up the pitch. Another strength is the speed of transition when the midfield duo of Seiwald and Schlager recovers possession and immediately finds the front three.

The 3-4-3 formation provides Austria with a heavy offensive presence and high intensity. It is a lineup best suited for facing opponents who struggle to play out from the back under pressure.