1960s – today
5-3-2 The 5-3-2: five defenders, two strikers
Five defenders (three centre-backs plus two full-backs), three midfielders and two strikers. It is the classic underdog shape: deep, compact, and always with two players ready to break.
Strengths
- Five defenders make the box crowded and crosses less dangerous.
- Two strikers remain high, so clearances become attacks.
- Very hard to beat for a team with less possession.
Risks
- The team can be pinned deep for long spells.
- Only three midfielders means the opponent controls the ball.
How it is played
Defend in a 5-3-2 block, win the ball, and go long to the strikers immediately. The wide defenders must be able to run 60 metres with the ball.
In today’s game
Now usually a 5-3-2 without the ball and a 3-4-2-1 with it — teams rarely defend and attack in the same shape.
Reference sides: Greece 2004 · Chelsea 2012 (in defence) · Costa Rica 2014 · Iceland 2016