3-1 · 5 players including the goalkeeper

Futsal 3-1 formation diagram

A fixo and two alas behind a pivot. Use this 3-1 example to plan a pass into the pivot and the support that follows it.

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3-1 starting shape · Attack to the right →
Shirt numbers are examples. Replace them with your own players.

3-1: players and roles

3-1 describes four outfield players. The fixo and two alas form the three behind one pivot; the goalkeeper makes five. Positions can change during play, so use this diagram as the shape of one situation rather than fixed assignments.

GoalkeeperShirt no. 1: Start in front of the goal. Use this position to discuss passes to the players behind the ball and where teammates can recover.
FixoShirt no. 4: Stay centrally behind the alas, connecting passes to either side. When an ala advances, adjust the fixo’s position so the centre is not left too open.
Two alasShirt no. 7, 8: Provide options on both sides. Give the player passing to the pivot and the player receiving a lay-off different angles and distances.
PivotShirt no. 9: Offer a target up front. Show receiving to feet, laying the ball off and turning towards goal as separate situations.

What to check when adjusting the shape

Keep a passing lane to the pivot

Check that another teammate is not directly between the ala on the ball and the pivot. Move the pivot sideways to compare passing angles.

Create support after the pass

Compare an ala staying still after passing with an ala moving forward. Adjust the other ala so they can receive a lay-off.

Decide who holds the centre

If both alas advance at once, there are fewer options behind them. Identify who stays central and where everyone recovers after losing possession.

Try it on the board

Draw a pass from one ala to the pivot, then move that ala forward. Adjust the opposite ala’s position for a lay-off and the fixo’s position behind the play.

Make this your team’s formation

Select “Edit this formation” to open a board with these 5 players.
Tap a player to change their number or name, then drag them into position.
Draw passes and runs with arrows, then copy the URL from the share menu. You can also export an image.

Edit this formation

The diagram uses QuickBoard’s shared football pitch. It illustrates player relationships, not pitch dimensions.

Frequently asked questions

Does 3-1 mean only four players?

It describes the four outfield players. This diagram adds one goalkeeper for a total of five.

Are 3-1 and 1-2-1 different shapes?

They can describe a similar arrangement: one player behind, two wide and one up front, grouped differently. This 3-1 example places the alas a little deeper; you can change their height on the board.