Gafferbook
11v11 formation

3-4-3 11v11

Three at the back, a midfield four and a front three: an aggressive, attacking 11v11 shape.

Your assistant coach: line your squad up in it, track who played where and see if it gets results.

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Strengths

  • Lots of attackers
  • Presses high
  • Width everywhere

Watch out for

  • Only three defenders
  • Very demanding to play

Coaching tip

Use it to chase a game or against weaker opposition. It needs a disciplined back three.

Positions in this shape

  • GK: Goalkeeper. Stops shots, organises the defence and starts attacks by passing or throwing out.
  • LCB: Left centre-back. One of a back three: covers the left channel and steps out with the ball.
  • CB: Centre-back. Defends the middle in front of goal, wins headers and tackles, and starts play from the back.
  • RCB: Right centre-back. One of a back three: covers the right channel and steps out with the ball.
  • LM: Left midfielder. Provides width on the left, crosses and tracks back to help the left-back.
  • CM: Central midfielder. Links defence and attack, passes and receives under pressure, and covers lots of ground.
  • RM: Right midfielder. Provides width on the right, crosses and tracks back to help the right-back.
  • LW: Left winger. Beats defenders on the left, crosses and cuts inside to shoot.
  • ST: Striker. Scores goals, holds the ball up and leads the press from the front.
  • RW: Right winger. Beats defenders on the right, crosses and cuts inside to shoot.

3-4-3 drills and session plan →

All football positions explained →

GKLCBCBRCBLMCMCMRMLWSTRWUse this formation →⚖️ Compare with another shape

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Other 11v11 formations

4-3-3
3-5-2
4-4-2
4-2-3-1

Coaching guides

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Questions

What age groups play 11v11?

In England (FA Future Fit, 2026/27) 11v11 is played at U14, U15, U16, U17, U18. In Scotland's player pathway it is played at U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, U18. Leagues can vary, so check your league's rules.

Is the 3-4-3 good for 11v11?

Three at the back, a midfield four and a front three: an aggressive, attacking 11v11 shape. Use it to chase a game or against weaker opposition. It needs a disciplined back three.