The most common 9-a-side formations are 3-2-3, 3-3-2, 4-3-1 and 3-4-1. If you are not sure where to start, use the 3-2-3: three defenders, two centre midfielders and a front three. Build your team sheet below, or read how each shape works.
From the 2026-27 season, the FA's FutureFit changes make 9v9 the format for under-12s and under-13s (it used to be under-11s and under-12s), with 11v11 starting at under-14s.
Formations are written from the back, not counting the goalkeeper: a 3-2-3 has three defenders, two midfielders and three forwards. Treat the shape as a starting point; young players should still try different positions.
Three defenders, two centre midfielders and a front three. One of the most popular 9v9 shapes, with width at the top of the pitch.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Best for: Attacking teams with quick wide players.
Three defenders, three midfielders and two strikers. Balanced, with a strike partnership.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Best for: Balanced teams with two forwards who link well.
A back four, three midfielders and a striker. The closest 9v9 shape to an 11v11 back four.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Best for: Teams preparing for 11v11 with a back four.
Three defenders, four midfielders and a striker. Controls the middle with wide midfielders for width.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Best for: Teams that like to keep the ball and build through midfield.
| Your team | Try |
|---|---|
| Quick wide players | 3-2-3 |
| Two forwards who link well | 3-3-2 |
| Preparing for an 11v11 back four | 4-3-1 |
| Want to control midfield | 3-4-1 |
A team sheet shows where players start. To show how the shape moves when you win or lose the ball, use the DrawTactics tactics board and animation tools: drag players, draw runs and passing lanes, and export a short video for your team.
Drag players freely, draw arrows and zones, and show spacing, pressing triggers and passing patterns.
Animate player and ball movement step by step, then export video explainers for team meetings and social.
Annotate match clips with player markers, arrows and freeze frames to show exactly what happened.
Mark up match screenshots to explain positioning and what to fix next session.
There is no single best shape, but the 3-2-3 suits most 9-a-side teams because it is balanced and easy to learn. Pick a more defensive or attacking shape once your players are comfortable.
From the 2026-27 season, the FA's FutureFit changes make 9v9 the format for under-12s and under-13s (it used to be under-11s and under-12s), with 11v11 starting at under-14s.
9 per team: 8 outfield players and a goalkeeper. Squad sizes and substitution rules depend on your league.
Yes. Use the builder on this page: pick a formation, type in the names and numbers, then download a PNG or print it (or save it as a PDF). It is free, with no sign-up.
Use small-sided games in training with the same shape, rotate players through different positions, and keep the instructions for each role simple. Plan the session in the free session planner.
