St. Pauli Football Formation
Today, November 15, 2026
Starting Lineup
71 (VOLL)76 (NEMETH)
76 (ANDO)
75 (OPPIE)
77 (PYRKA)
76 (SMITH)
75 (RASMUSSEN)
75 (PEREIRA LAGE)
80 (FUJITA)
75 (HARA)
76 (KAARS)
St. Pauli focuses on a high press and quick transitions using a 5-2-3 formation. This lineup is built to win the ball high up the pitch and strike rapidly before the opposition can reset. The goal is to squeeze the space in the middle and use wide players to stretch the defense during attacks.
Between the posts, 71 acts as the last line of defense. The defensive unit sits in a back five consisting of 76, 76, and 76 as central defenders, while 77 and 75 operate as attacking wing backs. The central trio of 76, 76, and 76 works to defend zonally, with the middle 76 often acting as a covering defender to sweep behind the line. The wing backs 77 and 75 are tasked with providing width and tracking back to form a five man block when defending deep.
The midfield utilizes a double pivot with 80 and 75 occupying the central spaces. 80 acts as the primary carrier to drive forward with the ball, while 75 works to shield the defense and recycle possession. These two players must connect the defensive line to the front three, often dropping into the half spaces to receive the ball and progress through the thirds. They are responsible for winning the second ball and ensuring the team maintains control when the tempo slows.
In the attacking third, St. Pauli employs three attackers across the front. 76 and 75 operate as wide wingers who hug the touchline to pull the opposition full backs out of position, while 75 plays as a lone striker. The forwards are expected to press from the front to force a long ball from the opposition. This setup creates opportunities for runs in behind and allows the wingers to cut inside to find the feet of the striker or deliver crosses into the box.
A major advantage for St. Pauli is the ability to create wide overloads when 77 and 75 push high up the pitch. This presence forces the opposition to defend deep and leaves gaps for 80 or 75 to exploit in the middle. Additionally, the formation allows for great compactness when defending, as the five defenders and two midfielders can quickly drop into a low block to deny the turn to attackers.
This 5-2-3 formation is designed for a team that wants to hit opponents on the break and dominate through wide play. It is best suited for matches against teams that play a high defensive line and can be caught out by speed.