Youth soccer players moving through game play during an indoor training session

game

Develop through the game

Use the game to support individual development

GAME

Selecting a Formation for your team

What is a formation and why is it important?

  • A formation is a way of setting up your team
  • Each player is given a position and roles and responsibilities with and without the ball
  • Formations change as players play different formats of the game
  • Using different formations can help support player development

Formations for different formats of the game are below. These are examples and other formations may be used. Click on the pitch diagrams to learn more about each formation - each formation builds on the previous format.

1-2-1 formation pitch diagram showing height, width, and depth.

U7-U8 · 4v4

1-2-1 FORMATION

 1-3-2-1 formation pitch diagram for 7v7.

U9-U10 · 7v7

1-3-2-1 FORMATION

 1-3-2-3 formation pitch diagram for 9v9.

U11-U12 · 9v9

1-3-2-3 FORMATION

 1-4-3-3 formation pitch diagram for 11v11.

U13+ · 11v11

1-4-3-3 FORMATION

U13+ · Up to 11v11

1-4-3-3 FORMATION

Overview

As players progress to 11v11, a second center back and a third midfielder (red players) are introduced.

The formation begins with a back line consisting of one goalkeeper and four defenders. It then progresses to the three midfielders and three forwards.

How it works

  • The 1-4-3-3 formation provides a structure for multiple triangles and diamonds to create passing lanes.
  • This formation is just one organizational structure as there are many variations.
  • It creates two blocks (5 attacking players and 5 defending players) setting up 1v1 situations across the field.

Recommended Resources

Click each resource to download a PDF overview

GAME

Selecting a formation for your team

Guide to formations for different formats of the game