9v9 · Formation 01 · From the source playbook

3-1-3-1

One possible way to play 9v9: a starting shape, four rules and a job for every position.

✓ Coaching reviewed · 19 October 2026
1-3-1-3-19 players, goalkeeper first
3-1-3-18 outfield players
Fig. 1 · Starting shape9v9 · 3-1-3-1
Starting shape: 1-3-1-3-1Nine players attacking upwards in a 1-3-1-3-1: goalkeeper; 3, 5 and 2 across the back; 6 alone in front of them; 11, 10 and 7 across the middle with 10 central; 9 furthest forward. A shaded spine runs through GK, 5, 6, 10 and 9.GK3526111079

The formation is our starting position. It isn't where we have to stand.

Starting shapeSource playbook, p. 1

This shape gives us

  • three defenders
  • protection through the middle
  • width on both sides
  • a 10 close to the striker
  • four players who can quickly join an attack

Our spine runs through the middle: GK, 5, 6, 10, 9.

Say it on the touchline

The formation is our starting position. It isn't where we have to stand.

Four rules

Four rules

Middle firstProtect the middle before chasing the ball outside.If you're not sure whether to go, stay central. One goes, one staysOne outside defender can attack. The other stays.If the other defender goes, you stay. Far side inWhen we attack down one side, the opposite wide player attacks the goal.Ball on your side: give us width. Ball on the other side: attack the goal. Show them wide, then goProtect the middle, guide them to the touchline, then press together.The touchline helps us defend.
PositionsStarting picture, not permanent jobs

A job for every position

GK GoalkeeperStart us playing 5 Centre-backKeep us secure 23 Outside defendersDefend first. Support second. 6 The screenProtect. Connect. 711 Wide playersWide when it's ours. Narrow when it isn't. 10 Number 10Find the space 9 StrikerGive us somewhere to play 910 9 and 10 togetherDon't stand in a line
Attacking and defending examples

Examples in this guide

When we have the ball

Far side inWhen we attack down one side, the opposite wide player attacks the goal.9 and 10 togetherDon't stand in a line.

When they have the ball

Middle firstProtect the middle before chasing the ball outside.Show them wide, then goProtect the middle, guide them to the touchline, then press together.
Playbook PDF

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The 3-1-3-1 playbook

An A4 version to share with players and parents, built from the same content as these pages. It isn't released yet.