Line 3v3
Three players spread from back to front, with clear jobs for defending, linking and attacking.
Your assistant coach: line your squad up in it, track who played where and see if it gets results.
Strengths
- Clear roles: back, middle, front
- Lots of forward passes
Watch out for
- Easy to pass through if players don't move across
- Can feel rigid for young players
Coaching tip
Treat it as a game-to-game experiment; most U7 coaches let shapes form naturally.
Positions in this shape
- CB: Centre-back. Defends the middle in front of goal, wins headers and tackles, and starts play from the back.
- CM: Central midfielder. Links defence and attack, passes and receives under pressure, and covers lots of ground.
- ST: Striker. Scores goals, holds the ball up and leads the press from the front.
Opens the free line-up builder with this shape loaded.
Other 3v3 formations
Coaching guides
Free AI coaching help from Gafferbook. Ask anything about coaching your team.
Questions
What age groups play 3v3?
In England (FA Future Fit, 2026/27) 3v3 is played at U7. In Scotland's player pathway it is played at no standard age group. Leagues can vary, so check your league's rules.
Is the Line good for 3v3?
Three players spread from back to front, with clear jobs for defending, linking and attacking. Treat it as a game-to-game experiment; most U7 coaches let shapes form naturally.