| Players | 9 |
|---|---|
| Notation | Outfield lines; goalkeeper is additional |
| Purpose | A starting picture, not fixed places |
| Before using | Confirm your competition’s playing format |
What this shape makes possible
Wide forwards can create room inside, and the midfield pair can connect behind the attack.
The problem to watch for
The central pair may become outnumbered if wide forwards do not recover. Agree on what the near and far wide players do after a loss.
Teach it in practice
Start a possession game with three forward targets. On a turnover, ask the nearest wide target to rejoin the midfield immediately.
Rotate the roles
Let players experience different starting positions over the season. Describe a role with one job in possession and one job after losing the ball. Avoid labeling a young player as only a defender or only a scorer.
Judge it by the game
- Can the player with the ball see a useful passing option?
- Can the team protect central space when possession changes?
- Are the players close enough to help one another?
- Does a different starting shape solve a real problem for this group?
KEEP IT SIMPLEMove to help the play, not to stand on your starting spot.
Practical suggestions to adapt to your players. This resource has not received independent coach or referee review. How our content is prepared.