The most common 9v9 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 center midfielders and a front three. Build your lineup below, or read how each shape works.
Under US Soccer's small-sided standards, U11 and U12 teams play 9v9: eight field players and a goalkeeper. It is the last step before 11v11 at U13.
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 center midfielders and a front three. One of the most popular 9v9 shapes, with width at the top of the field.
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 lineup 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 9v9 teams because it is balanced and easy to learn. Pick a more defensive or attacking shape once your players are comfortable.
Under US Soccer's small-sided standards, U11 and U12 teams play 9v9: eight field players and a goalkeeper. It is the last step before 11v11 at U13.
9 per team: 8 field 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 practice 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.
