7-a-Side Lineup Builder
Build your 7-a-side lineup in the tool above: choose a formation, put your players on the pitch and name them. In a few seconds you have a team sheet you can download as an image and send to the group before the match. It is free, works on your phone and does not need an account.
Seven-a-side: the most common small-sided format
7-a-side is the standard for Sunday leagues on 3G pitches, youth football from under-9s to under-11s and most work five-a-side leagues that outgrew the cage. The pitch is big enough for wingers and real midfield play, but small enough that every lost ball becomes a chance for the other side. A shape that everyone understands matters more here than in eleven-a-side.
7-a-side formations in the builder
- 2-3-1: the default for most teams. Two defenders, three in midfield with width, one striker. Dominates the middle of the pitch.
- 3-2-1: the safe option. Three at the back means you rarely get caught on the counter, at the cost of some attacking width.
- 2-2-2: two strikers who press together, two central midfielders and two defenders. Works well with a pair of forwards who like each other.
- 3-1-2: a holding midfielder screens the back three and two forwards stretch the defence.
- 1-3-2: all-out attack for when you are chasing the game.
Roles in a 7-a-side team
With the keeper fixed, six outfield players each need a clear job. Defenders should be comfortable on the ball, not just strong in the tackle, because there is nowhere to hide a long clearance on a small pitch. The central midfielder in a 2-3-1 covers the most ground; the wide players need to track back. Your striker should hold the ball up and finish, and if you play two, decide who drops in.
Tips before you download
Fix the goalkeeper first, then the two most reliable defenders, then build forward. On a narrow pitch a compact 3-2-1 works; on a full-width 3G pitch the 2-3-1 uses the flanks. Give one player the job of marking their playmaker. When the lineup is done, download it as an image or embed it on the club site.
Play a smaller format? Use the 5-a-side lineup builder, or go full size with the football lineup builder. For tactics by format, read the amateur team formation guide.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a 7-a-side lineup?
Pick a seven-a-side formation in the builder above, such as 2-3-1 or 3-2-1, drag your players into position and type their names. Download the finished lineup as an image and share it with the team. Free, no account needed.
What is the best formation for 7-a-side?
The 2-3-1 is the most popular seven-a-side shape because it controls midfield and still has width. The 3-2-1 is safer if you concede a lot, and the 2-2-2 suits teams with two strikers who press. All of them are in the builder, along with 3-1-2 and 1-3-2.
Does the 7-a-side builder include a goalkeeper?
Yes. Each formation is six outfield players plus a goalkeeper, which is the standard for 7-a-side leagues, youth football and most small-sided pitches.
Can I add substitutes to a 7-a-side lineup?
Yes. Add your bench under the starting seven and include it in the downloaded image so everyone knows the rotation.
Can I use it for 6-a-side, 8-a-side or 9-a-side?
Yes. Change the player count in the builder and the formation list updates for 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 11 players.
