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

U9-U10 · Up to 7v7

1-3-2-1 FORMATION

Overview

As players progress to 7v7, there are new roles or position introduced including the goalkeeper (white) and two midfield players (red).

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

Players have flexibility to interchange between roles (positions) and should be encouraged to try all positions at this age group

How it works

  • The goalkeeper supports the attack
  • Three defenders (one central back and two wing backs) also support the attack
  • Two midfielders are staggered to create passing lanes (one has more of an attacking role and the other is more defensive)
  • One central forward provides height and an option to play forward

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