Modena Football Formation

Starting Lineup

72 (CHICHIZOLA)
77 (TONOLI)
77 (NIELING)
76 (NADOR)
76 (BRUGMAN)
77 (BIANCO)
75 (AZZI)
75 (ZAMPANO)
75 (CASO)
77 (AMBROSINO)
76 (BELOTTI)

Modena relies on a high press and verticality through a 3-5-2 formation. This lineup focuses on winning the ball high up the pitch and hitting the opponent quickly through the center. By using a dense midfield, the team aims to control the tempo and quickly progress through the thirds once the ball is recovered.

In goal, 72 acts as the last line of defense. The back three consists of 76 as the right centre-back, 77 as the central defender, and 77 as the left centre-back. These players operate in a narrow defensive block to protect the middle. The central defender at 77 is tasked with winning the header and clearing the lines, while 76 and 77 provide cover and look to step up to intercept passes. This unit works to stay compact and squeeze the space between the lines.

The midfield is a heavy engine room featuring a five man unit. At the base, 76 and 77 operate as a double pivot to shield the defense and recycle possession. Moving forward, 75, 75, and 75 occupy the central spaces to connect the defensive and attacking lines. One of these central players is tasked to carry the ball forward and find the feet of the striker. This midfield group is designed to win the second ball and press in pairs to force a long ball from the opposition.

Modena uses two forwards to lead the attack. 77 operates as a lone striker who looks to pin the last defender, while 76 plays as a second striker in the hole to find pockets of space. These two attackers are expected to press from the front and force the opposition back line into mistakes. They look to play one-two combinations to break the line and make runs in behind the defense. The goal is to create quick combinations in tight spaces to catch the opponent out of position.

The main advantage for Modena lies in the numerical superiority in midfield. By crowding the central areas, the team can easily win the second ball and control the tempo. Another strength is the ability to press high in coordinated waves, using the front two and the central midfielders to trigger a press. This creates high turnover opportunities that allow the team to attack with speed.

This 3-5-2 formation is built for teams that want to dominate the middle of the pitch through intense pressing. It is best suited for matches against opponents who try to build play slowly from the back.