The 2-3-5 is a classic formation of players in football that was commonly used during the 19th century until the early 20th century. It is considered as one of the oldest formation used in football.
This formation is commonly termed as the “pyramid” and consists of two defensive players, three midfield players, and five forward players. The defensive players were known as the full-backs. There are several variations that sprouted from this classic football formation.
Facts on the 2-3-5 Formation
The 2-3-5 formation was known as the first long-term formation that was considered successful. This fact was recorded in a football magazine in 1880 as well as in 1960. Its development, which started in the United Kingdom allowed Wrexham AFC to win their first Welsh Cup. This happened during the 1877 to 1878 season.
Before the 1900s, the 2-3-5 formation was known as the “pyramid”. In the 1890s, the formation became the norm in England before it spread all over the world. It was also used by top-level teams with several variations up until the 1930s.
The formation brought about a balance between defense and offense and was used by the national team of Uruguay to win the 1930 FIFA World Cub as well as the 1924 and 1928 Olympics.
This classic and famous formation was the one that gave rise to how shirt numbers were arranged, which was increasing from the right and back. It also paved the way for three major variations, which were part of many teams’ winning streaks. These variations include the pyramid, Danubian School, and Metodo.
2-3-5 Formation at Work
The most significant contribution of the 2-3-5 formation in football was its way of balancing the defending and attacking positions of teams. This was why it had become an early favorite to many had been used as a basis to create other kinds of formations.
The 2-3-5 formation usually involves two defenders, the full-backs that need to group opponents and make them move forwards. These opponents are mainly the central trio. While this is being done, the midfielders or the halfbacks will fill in the gaps and take note of the opposing wingers. In this formation, the center halfback needs to play a key role in marking the center forward of the opposing team and in organizing the team’s attack.