5-a-side formations. Everyone plays.
Last updated 3 November 2026 · By Davide Domenghini
Five a side is the FA format for under 8s and under 9s from the 2026-27 season: a keeper and four outfield players on a small pitch.
Pick a shape, tick who's in, and the board keeps every player's minutes, so everyone gets a fair go.
Open the board in 5-a-sideWhat is the best 5-a-side formation?
At this age the shape matters less than the touches. Everyone attacks. Everyone defends.
1-2-1 is the diamond, and where most coaches start. One at the back, two wide, one up top. Every player has a team-mate either side.
2-2 is two and two. Easy to explain, easy to hold. 2-1-1 keeps two back for a side that's leaking goals.
Swap them round every half. The keeper too.
What changed at 5-a-side this season?
From 2026-27 the FA moved the formats down an age. Under 8s and under 9s play 5-a-side. Under 7s start on 3-a-side, with no keepers.
Under 9s used to play 7-a-side, so plenty of squads are new to five. Pick the age group and the board sets the format. Your league plays something different? Change it.
The FA rules for 5-a-side
| Ages | Under 8s and under 9s, from 2026-27. |
|---|---|
| Goals and ball | 12 x 6 ft goals. Size 3 ball. |
| Match length | Up to 40 minutes, two halves of 20. No more than 60 minutes in a day. |
| Squad | Five on the pitch, ten or fewer on matchday. |
| Subs | Rolling. On and off at any time with the referee's say-so, and a player who came off can go back on. |
| Goal kicks | Retreat line. The other side drops back to halfway until the ball is played. |
| Restarts | No offside. No throw-ins: pass or dribble it in. No deliberate heading. |
| Results | No leagues. Up to three trophy events a season. |
| Playing time | Equal where possible. The FA's best practice is at least half of every game for every player. |
From The FA Mini-Soccer and Youth Futsal Handbook 2026-27. Leagues can play a smaller format. Check yours.
Read more from the FA
Who plays it
Under 8s, Under 9s
Every age group and its formatShapes on the board
1-2-1 formation
The diamond. One back, two wide, one up top. The balanced start.
2-2 formation
Two at the back, two up top. Simple to hold.
2-1-1 formation
Two at the back, one in the middle, one up top. Safer at the back.