Choosing a Formation in Squadd
Overview
Your formation determines how many defenders, midfielders, and forwards are on the pitch. Squadd uses it to auto-assign players to slots, generate the substitution rotation, and (when Detailed Positions is on) label each slot with a specific role like LB or CM.
Selecting a Formation for a Fixture
- Open the Lineup screen for the fixture
- Tap the formation label at the top (e.g. "2-2-2" or "4-3-3")
- Choose from the preset options for your format — or enter custom numbers
The lineup regenerates immediately to fit the new shape.
Available Formations
| Format | Presets |
|---|---|
| 5v5 | 1-2-1 · 2-1-1 · 1-1-2 · 2-2-0 |
| 7v7 | 2-2-2 · 2-3-1 · 3-2-1 · 1-3-2 · 3-1-2 |
| 9v9 | 3-3-2 · 3-2-3 · 2-4-2 · 4-3-1 · 2-3-3 |
| 11v11 | 4-4-2 · 4-3-3 · 3-5-2 · 5-3-2 · 4-5-1 · 3-4-3 |
Numbers represent DEF-MID-FWD outfield players. One goalkeeper is always included.
Custom Formations
If none of the presets match your system, tap the formation label and adjust the DEF, MID, and FWD numbers manually. The total must equal the number of outfield slots for your format (e.g. 6 outfield for 7v7, 10 for 11v11).
Custom formations apply to this fixture only. To save a formation as the default for future matches, go to Settings → Default formation.
How Formation Affects the Lineup
Player assignment: When you change formation, Squadd re-runs the auto-suggestion to fill the new slot counts. A 3-2-1 has more defenders and fewer forwards than a 1-2-3 — players shift accordingly.
Substitution rotation: The rotation plan is based on the formation. More outfield slots = more players rotating simultaneously per window.
Detailed Position roles: If Detailed Positions is enabled, the formation determines the specific role labels — 4 defenders in a 4-4-2 become LB, LCB, RCB, RB rather than four generic DEF slots.
Setting a Default Formation
To avoid selecting the same formation before every match:
- Go to Settings → Default formation
- Choose your preferred preset
The lineup builder loads this formation automatically for every new fixture. You can still override it per match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a formation with no midfielders?
Yes — set MID to 0. Some 5v5 setups play this way. The formation is valid as long as the total equals the format's outfield slot count.
My formation changed mid-match — how do I update it?
The formation only affects the pre-match lineup plan. During a live match, substitutions are recorded manually and the formation isn't tracked. Adjust the lineup plan before the next match.
Does formation affect which player is suggested for a swap during the match?
No — the live match fair-play swap (⇄ button) is based purely on minutes played, not formation slots.
Should I pick different formations for league vs cup?
That's a tactical decision. Squadd applies whatever formation you select; you can change it per fixture without affecting your team default.