5-a-side Football Formations

Who plays 5-a-side?

From the 2026-27 season, the FA's FutureFit changes make 5v5 the format for under-8s and under-9s (it used to be under-7s and under-8s). 5-a-side is also the most popular adult small-sided game, so these shapes work for your weekly game too.

The 4 most common 5-a-side formations

Formations are written from the back, not counting the goalkeeper: a 1-2-1 has one defender, two midfielders and one forward. Treat the shape as a starting point; young players should still try different positions.

1-2-1 (the diamond)

One defender, two wide players and one striker. The diamond gives every player a passing angle, so it is the shape most coaches start with.

Strengths

• Natural triangles and diamonds for passing
• Width from the two wide players
• Every player has a clear job in attack and in defence

Weaknesses

• The single defender can be exposed on the counter
• The wide players have a lot of running to do

Best for: Teams learning to pass and move. A good default for most 5v5 teams.

Use the 1-2-1 in the team sheet builder

2-2 (the box)

Two defenders and two forwards in a square. Simple roles and pairs that look after each other.

Strengths

• Easy for new players to understand
• Two defenders cover each other
• Two forwards can press and combine

Weaknesses

• The team can split into two pairs with a gap in the middle
• Fewer diagonal passes than the diamond

Best for: Beginners, and teams conceding too many goals.

Use the 2-2 in the team sheet builder

2-1-1

Two defenders, a centre midfielder and a striker. Safe at the back, with one player linking defence and attack.

Strengths

• Cover at the back when the midfielder joins the attack
• One player controls the middle of the pitch

Weaknesses

• The striker can be isolated
• Needs a busy, fit midfielder

Best for: Teams that want security without giving up the middle.

Use the 2-1-1 in the team sheet builder

3-1

Three across the back and one striker. Very hard to break down, with the wide defenders stepping forward when you have the ball.

Strengths

• Hard to play through
• Wide defenders can push on and become midfielders

Weaknesses

• Few players in attack
• The striker is often on their own

Best for: Protecting a lead or facing a stronger team.

Use the 3-1 in the team sheet builder

Which 5-a-side formation should you use?

Positions in 5-a-side

• Goalkeeper: Organises the players in front and starts attacks with throws and short passes.
• Defenders: Stop the ball getting through the middle, then step in with the ball when there is space.
• Midfielders and wide players: Link everything. In 5v5 they defend and attack in almost every move.
• Striker: Gives the team a target, holds the ball up and presses the opposition's defenders.

Coaching tips for 5-a-side

• Keep it simple. One or two instructions per position are plenty. The shape matters less than players knowing where to find space.
• Rotate positions. At youth level, give everyone time in defence, midfield and attack. It builds better players and keeps them interested.
• Training the shape in small-sided games. Set up games with the same numbers and shape you play on matchday, then add one coaching point at a time. Plan it in the free session planner.
• Share the plan before the match. Send players and parents the team sheet from the builder above so everyone knows their position. When your team moves up, see the 7-a-side formations.

Frequently asked questions

More formations and free tools