3-2-3 9v9
Three defenders, two central midfielders and a front three: an attacking 9v9 shape with wingers.
Your assistant coach: line your squad up in it, track who played where and see if it gets results.
Strengths
- Width from two wingers
- Lots of players in attack
Watch out for
- Only two in central midfield
- Wingers must track back
Coaching tip
Teach the front three to press together; it wins the ball high up the pitch.
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.
- CM: Central midfielder. Links defence and attack, passes and receives under pressure, and covers lots of ground.
- 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.
Opens the free line-up builder with this shape loaded.
Other 9v9 formations
Coaching guides
Free AI coaching help from Gafferbook. Ask anything about coaching your team.
Questions
What age groups play 9v9?
In England (FA Future Fit, 2026/27) 9v9 is played at U12, U13. In Scotland's player pathway it is played at no standard age group. Leagues can vary, so check your league's rules.
Is the 3-2-3 good for 9v9?
Three defenders, two central midfielders and a front three: an attacking 9v9 shape with wingers. Teach the front three to press together; it wins the ball high up the pitch.