3-5-2 formation

Three centre-backs, wing-backs for width, five in midfield and two strikers.

How it plays

Three centre-backs, five midfielders and two strikers. The two wing-backs are the key: they defend as full-backs and attack as wingers. With three in the centre of the midfield, the team is strong in the middle and has two strikers up front.

Strengths

Numbers in the centre: three defenders and three midfielders.
Two strikers up front, with wing-backs providing the crosses.
Flexible: it becomes a back five when defending.

Weaknesses

The wing-backs need a lot of stamina to cover the whole flank.
Space opens on the sides when the wing-backs are caught high.
The three centre-backs have to cover the wide channels as well.

Best for

Teams with two energetic wide players, solid centre-backs and a good pair of strikers.

Coach’s tip

Rotate the wing-backs first if you can. They run the most, and fresh legs there change the second half.

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