3-3-2 9v9
Three at the back, three in midfield and two strikers: the most common 9v9 shape for U12 and U13.
Your assistant coach: line your squad up in it, track who played where and see if it gets results.
Strengths
- Balanced across every line
- Two strikers keep defenders busy
Watch out for
- Wide areas can be exposed if the wide midfielders don't track back
Coaching tip
A great stepping stone to 11v11: the back three learns to cover and the midfield three learns to rotate.
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.
- 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 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 3-3-2 good for 9v9?
Three at the back, three in midfield and two strikers: the most common 9v9 shape for U12 and U13. A great stepping stone to 11v11: the back three learns to cover and the midfield three learns to rotate.