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Technical performance during soccer matches of the Italian Serie A league
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in technical and physical performance between the first and second half during official matches of Italian Serie A league. Further aim was to compare the technical and physical performance of the players of the more successful teams (ranked in the first 5 positions) with the players of the less successful teams (ranked in the last 5 positions) from the same league. A total of 416 individual games from 186 soccer players (27+/-4 years, 76+/-5kg, and 181+/-5cm) were analysed using a video match-analysis system. The match performance parameters analysed were: total distance covered (TD), high-intensity running distance (HIR), very high-intensity running distance (VHIR), total distance with the ball (TDB), high-intensity running distance with the ball (HIRB), and very high-intensity running distance with the ball (VHIRB). The number of skill involvements was also measured. The players from the more successful teams covered greater TDB and HIRB and also had more involvements with the ball, completed more short passes, successful short passes, tackles, dribbling, shots and shots on target compared to the less successful teams (P<0.01). A significant decline (P<0.01) between the first and second half was found for both physical performance and some technical scores (involvements with the ball, short passes and successful short passes). This study showed a decline in technical and physical performance between the first and second half, and that both physical performance and technical skills were different between players from more successful and less successful teams.
... The total distance covered during football matches is an oftenreported PI, though its usefulness as a predictor for success is questionable. 4,24,25 Although some studies found teams with higher running distances to be more successful, 4 more often, the less successful teams are found to run more, whereas successful teams only run more when in ball possession. 24,25 In our study, total distance was clearly lower when T or WBGT were higher in the BL1, BL2, JL, and the combined match data of all 4 leagues, which is in line with previous research. ...
... 4,24,25 Although some studies found teams with higher running distances to be more successful, 4 more often, the less successful teams are found to run more, whereas successful teams only run more when in ball possession. 24,25 In our study, total distance was clearly lower when T or WBGT were higher in the BL1, BL2, JL, and the combined match data of all 4 leagues, which is in line with previous research. 11,15,16 Although speculative, these findings could result from increased player thermoregulatory and cardiovascular strain, leading to earlier onset of fatigue as part of a preventive measure against an elevated core temperature. ...
... 5 The distance covered at a high speed, especially when in ball possession, is associated with successful match outcomes in football. 24,27,28 For example, increased high intensity distances and straight-line sprinting were the most frequent actions leading to goal scoring opportunities. 3,5 The current study found that less sprints were attempted in all 4 leagues and that the number of high-speed runs, as well as the sprint and high-speed distance, was lower when T or WBGT were higher in the BL1, BL2, and when combining all match data, in line with previous studies. ...
Purpose : This study investigated associations between environmental temperatures and match running performance in 4 professional football leagues. Methods : Running performance indicators including total, high-speed, and sprint distances were collated from 1610 matches from the German Bundesliga 1 and 2, Japanese J-League, and Turkish SüperLig. Environmental data for each of these matches were obtained for dry-bulb and wet-bulb globe temperatures (WBGT) retrospectively from public sources. Linear regressions were used to determine relationships between running performance indicators and both temperature and WBGT for individual leagues. Furthermore, linear mixed models were used to determine associations across all 4 leagues, accounting for differences between them as random effects. Bonferroni corrections were applied to account for multiple tests. Results : Overall, combined-league data showed that total distance (95% CI, −0.50 to 0.37; β : −0.36), number of high-speed runs (95% CI, −4.57 to 2.93; β : −0.29), high-speed distances (95% CI, −0.07 to 0.05; β : −0.28), number of sprints (95% CI, −2.72 to 2.07; β : −0.39), and sprint distances (95% CI, −0.05 to 0.03; β : −0.22) were all lower when WBGT was higher ( P < .001), whereas the peak speed recorded per match (95% CI, 0.01 to 0.03; β : 0.18) was higher when WBGT was higher ( P < .001). Models with temperature instead of WBGT derived similar results. Conclusion : Warmer environmental conditions were associated with lower total, high-speed, and sprint distances covered. These responses may result from an increased thermoregulatory load or indirectly from an adapted individual or team-tactical pacing strategy in warmer conditions. Teams should consider strategies to counter such effects to avoid lower distances covered at high intensities that are related to success in football.
... First, empirical studies investigating the relationship between air pollution and passes consistently indicate a negative association, as demonstrated by Lichter et al. (2017) and Qin et al. (2022). Second, existing literature indicates a positive correlation between passes and high-intensity activities (e.g., Lichter et al., 2017;Rampinini et al., 2009). Lichter et al. (2017) observed a strong positive relationship between running distance and the number of passes, while Rampinini et al. (2009) found that in the more fatigued second half of the game, both passes and running distance decrease. ...
... Second, existing literature indicates a positive correlation between passes and high-intensity activities (e.g., Lichter et al., 2017;Rampinini et al., 2009). Lichter et al. (2017) observed a strong positive relationship between running distance and the number of passes, while Rampinini et al. (2009) found that in the more fatigued second half of the game, both passes and running distance decrease. These findings suggest that in severe air pollution, players tend to reduce both running and passes, thus supporting our hypothesis. ...
... The results in columns (4)-(6) of Table 4 align with our expectations, showing no significant effects of air pollution on tackles. This finding is consistent with a study by Rampinini et al. (2009), which also found an insignificant impact of increased fatigue on tackles. Unlike passing, tackles may not reliably indicate a player's fitness when faced with challenging conditions. ...
Understanding the immediate impacts of air pollution is crucial, especially as non-health outcomes like player productivity are covert. This paper focuses on investigating the causal relationship between air pollution and player productivity, which is theoretically established by the health consequences of air pollution and the Grossman health production function. The dataset used comprises over 20,000 observations from 1,440 matches in the Chinese Football Association Super League from 2014 to 2019. The IV estimation results show that a 1% increase in air pollution results in a reduction of 0.101% in the number of passes, which is five times larger than the OLS estimation. Heterogeneity results suggest that possessing an advantage (physical fitness, technical skills, or playing at home) contributes to mitigating the adverse effects of air pollution. This study underscores the critical role of clean air in enabling football players to achieve high productivity in the game.
... The LIST consists of 15-min blocks of exercise, interspersed with 4-min rest periods; each block includes repeated cycles of walking, jogging, and sprinting. However, this protocol does not include a 15-min half time period and does not contain technical actions (Nicholas et al., 2000). Although several studies have incorporated soccer-specific skills testing within the LIST execution (Ali, 2011), these modified versions of the LIST lack some ecological validity, and according to Russell et al. (2011b) only measuring the time to complete a task is an incomplete representation of the skill executed. ...
... Nicholas, C., Nuttall, F., and Williams C. (2000). The Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test: A field test that simulates the activity pattern of soccer. ...
... Soccer simulation protocols aim to replicate movement patterns and physiological demands of match-play Drust et al., 2000;Nicholas et al., 2000;Thatcher and Batterham, 2000). Free running intermittent exercise simulation protocols are designed to simulate the activity pattern characteristics of soccer, however, several factors, such as the omission of game-specific skills , and the use of a non-grass surface might reduce the ecological validity of these protocols . ...
The present thesis reports on 4 studies on soccer-specific skill performance in academy male soccer players and novel nutritional strategies that could be used in order to help maintain skill. The first study reported in this thesis investigated how the consumption of 250 mL of a 12% carbohydrate-electrolyte beverage, both before the start of a 90-min soccer match simulation and at half time, influenced the preservation of soccer-specific abilities (specifically, dribbling, and passing proficiency), sprinting speed, and anaerobic endurance running capacity. The main finding from this study was that higher passing scores were consistently attained by players using both their dominant and non-dominant feet from the 60-min mark onward in the match simulation when ingesting the carbohydrate-electrolyte beverage. Notably, this sustained skill performance was achieved without a decline in passing speed. Interestingly, passing speed was better maintained particularly on the non-dominant foot when the players consumed the 60g of carbohydrates. Concomitantly, high-intensity running capacity was improved when the participants ingested the 12% carbohydrate-electrolyte solution compared with placebo; all of these positive findings occurred with minimal impact on gut comfort. In the second study, the test-rest reliability of soccer-specific skills was assessed using a modified version of the Russell et al (2011) soccer match simulation protocol. The results suggested that the modified soccer match simulation protocol exhibited promising reliability for most of the evaluated skills. Good to excellent reliability was reported for passing speed and accuracy and sprint speed. However, dribbling and shooting variables showed lower reliability. Additionally, it was determined that the modified version of the protocol could be easily incorporated into professional club settings without the need for specialised equipment. The third study identified that a single dose of a beverage containing 300 mg of coffeeberry ingested one hour before a soccer-specific skill assessment, conducted under rested conditions, did not result in any significant alteration in soccer skill performance compared with placebo. Moreover, it was concluded that it would be prudent to explore similar studies involving activities that induce physical and/or mental fatigue to better understand how coffeeberry might mitigate the negative impact of fatigue on soccer-specific skill performance. In the fourth and final study, the primary aim was to examine the impact of a single pre-exercise dose of a beverage containing 300 mg of coffeeberry on soccer skill performance throughout a 45-min period of simulated soccer-match play and on soccer skills evaluated after exercise-induced fatigue. The study confirmed that the consumption of coffeeberry extract could be advantageous in preserving some aspects of soccer-specific skill performance under exercise conditions. Specifically, it demonstrated notable maintenance of passing performance with retention of passing speed and accuracy during a 45-min simulated soccer match.
... Changes in technical and physical performance between the two halves have been quantified using variables such as goals scored, shots achieved, ball possession, TD covered and distance covered or efforts made at different intensity (Carling & Dupont, 2011;Lago-PeñPeñAs et al., 2023;Rampinini et al., 2007;Rivilla-García et al., 2019). Concerning the technical performance, it has been identified that there was a significant decline in total possessions and ball distributions in the second half compared to the first half in the English Premier League, Italian Serie A, and Brazilian Youth Championship (Rampinini et al., 2009;Rivilla-García et al., 2019;Russell et al., 2013). Stone and Oliver (2009) attributed this phenomenon to fatigue, which leads to a disparity in the execution abilities of some technical actions. ...
... However, there are still some conflicting or unclear research conclusions. For instance, Rampinini et al. (2009) found a significant decrease in the number of shots during the second half of matches in the Italian Serie A, while Michailidis et al. (2004) observed no significant change in shots from the first to second half of matches in the UEFA Champions League. What is more, it has been reported no meaningful changes in high-intensity running distance in the second half of matches in the European Champions League (Bradley et al., 2010), the Spanish La Liga (Castellano et al., 2011;Rey et al., 2022) and the English Football League Championship (Odetoyinbo et al., 2008). ...
... In addition, numerous studies have shown that most goals in soccer matches were scored in the second half (Armatas et al., 2007;Leite, 2013;Silva & Diniz, 2007). However, it has been found a significant decrease in the number of dribbles and short passes in the second half of matches of Italian Serie A and French Ligue 1 (Carling & Dupont, 2011;Rampinini et al., 2009). This variation in results suggests that there are differences in the technical performance changes between the first and second halves of matches in different competitions, which may have been resulted from variations in player skill levels, playing styles, tactical models and sporting cultures (Carling et al., 2015;Crolley & Hand, 2006). ...
... De Jong et al. (2023) divide the performance of football players into three major aspects: physical, technical, and tactics. Physical performance allows players to reach various positions on the field, technical skills include the actions players perform on the field, and tactics refer to the execution of the overall strategy and the interaction between players Low et al., 2020;Rampinini et al., 2009). Previous studies identified substantial differences between men's and women's football in all these aspects. ...
... Using social network analysis (SNA), we analyzed transitivity, density, and four node-based metrics: degree centrality, closeness centrality, betweenness centrality, and eigenvector centrality. Previous studies, both for male and female athletes, and even more specifically for male and female football players, have shown significant differences in physical performance such as strength and endurance (Bradley et al., 2014;de Araújo et al., 2020;Krustrup et al., 2005;Low et al., 2020;Rampinini et al., 2009). The same difference can also be seen regarding technical skills, with scholars generally finding that male football players perform better than female football players (Araya & Larkin, 2013;Carmichael et al., 2001;Jones et al., 2004;Lago & Martín, 2007;Lago-Ballesteros & Lago-Peñas, 2010;Pappalardo et al., 2021). ...
With women’s football finally receiving more attention, more and more studies explore differences to men’s football, mostly focussing on physical and technical indicators. This study is the first to compare the players’ collaboration between genders using social network analysis based on 328 matches of the FA Women’s Super League and 760 matches of the English Premier League. To compare overall team collaboration, patterns of density and transitivity were analysed. Additionally, the study examined degree centrality, closeness, betweenness, and eigenvector centrality as metrics to assess individual behaviors within the network. All statistical analyses were performed using Wilcoxon signed-ranked tests. We found no significant gender differences for all of the investigated metrics. Higher-ranked teams, in both genders, achieved significantly higher values than lower-ranked teams across all metrics except for eigenvector centrality, with larger effect sizes for density (rfemale = 0.47, rmale = 0.54). Practical differences between home and away teams could only be seen in men’s football, but with very small effect sizes. Therefore, this study can contribute to the state of research in three ways. Firstly, all the investigated network metrics except eigenvector can be used as football performance indicators without gender differences. Further, for both genders and all metrics there are no differences of practical meaning regarding home and away teams. Finally, we could show that there are no differences between male and female teams for the investigated performance indicators.
... These findings are consistent with a study conducted during the English Championship season, which reported that match-specific factors led to a reduction in total possessions and the number of passes during the second half of matches [16]. Additionally, these results align with another study conducted in the Italian Serie A league, which found a decline in certain technical scores, such as involvements with the ball, short passes, and successful short passes, from the first to the second half [17]. (Table S8)]. ...
... These findings are consistent with a study conducted during the English Championship season, which reported that match-specific factors led to a reduction in total possessions and the number of passes during the second half of matches [16]. Additionally, these results align with another study conducted in the Italian Serie A league, which found a decline in certain technical scores, such as involvements with the ball, short passes, and successful short passes, from the first to the second half [17]. ...
Among the many factors that can affect men’s soccer performance, technical and tactical actions can obscure relevant game data, even affecting specialists in both the programming and design of training tasks. We aimed to evaluate the technical and physical load variables of different positions in U18 semi-professional soccer players and observe the differences between the first and second halves during 10 matches of the 2021/2022 Spanish Football U18 National League Championship. A total of 246 match records (10 matches) were collected from the 2021/2022 Spanish Football U18 National League Championship. Two teams participated, with a total of 49 athletes. Our study’s results indicate that, concerning technical performance, no significant differences between halves were found for goalkeepers, wingers, and forwards. However, significant declines were observed in the number of ball contacts, different actions per time, and possessions per time among central defenders, lateral defenders, and central midfielders. Regarding the observed physical load demands, it was noted that in outfield players, there was a significant decline in total distances covered at different speed thresholds, as well as a decrease in the number and distance of acceleration measures, most of which were lower in the second halves compared to the first, irrespective of playing positions. This study contributes to enhancing our understanding of the multifaceted dynamics of soccer performance and provides valuable insights for coaches, players, and researchers aiming to optimize player performance.
... When attackers move faster, defenders must adjust to this situation by performing different types of defense depending on their position on the pitch 13 , the place where the ball is (or could be) stolen 14,15 , or the players being either in front of or behind the ball 16 . Along these lines, some researchers have found that teams run longer distances and do so at a higher speed in the defensive phase than in the attacking phase 17,18,19 . ...
... While the second methodology is more accurate, there is an agreement in the conclusions of both kind of analysis despite the averaging into 3 regions simplifies the analysis and assumes a subjective partition of the data. Similar to previous observations 19,17,18 , we found that players run at a higher speed during the defensive phase, taking into account the average speed across the entire soccer field, except for goalkeepers, who run slightly faster during the attacking phase and when the ball is far away. From a methodological standpoint, the goalkeeper's movement pattern may be attributed to the need to cover the open spaces between the defenders and the goal when they are far from the goal. ...
The study analyzes how the magnitude and angle of the speed of soccer players change according to the distance to the ball and the phases of the game, namely the defensive and attacking phases. We observed how the role played in the team (goalkeeper, defender, midfielder, or forward) strongly determines the speed pattern of players. As a general trend, the speed’s modulus is incremented as their position is closer to the ball, however, it is slightly decreased when arriving at it. Next, we studied how the angle of the speed with the direction to the ball is related to the distance to the ball and the game phases. We observed that, during the defensive phase, goalkeepers are the players that run more parallel to the ball, while forwards are the ones running more directly to the ball position. Importantly, this behavior changes dramatically during the attacking phase. Finally, we show how the proposed methodology can be used to analyze the speed-angle patterns of specific players to understand better how they move on the pitch according to the distance to the ball.
... Performance emerges from the interaction of physical, technical, tactical, and psychological factors [1,2], although questions remain regarding their relative weights in explaining individual and collective competitive performance [3][4][5]. In-depth knowledge of match and training demands provides coaches with important information for training monitoring and prescription and managing team volume in the training and competition process [6]. These insights are particularly relevant in soccer, where players are potentially exposed to up to 60 matches throughout the season, and players with regular participation accumulate 84% of all official match time [7][8][9]. ...
... More specifically, number of shots, shots on target (shot success), number of passes and pass completion rates (pass success) were positively correlated with team success [5,79]. Several trials demonstred the total number of short passes, successful passes, and involvements with the ball decreases between the first and second half of soccer matches, probably as aconsequence of players' fatigue [3,79,86,88]. In this sense, the substitutions appear to be a good strategy to counteract this decline in technical performance since the substitute players showed more possession, touches, shots, and defense actions per minute in comparison with the players who were replaced and those who completed the entire match [79,86,88]. ...
Phone: +351 912 356 094. 2 This is a PrePrint Version Citation: André M., Ivan B., Fábio Y. N. et al. The influence of competition time in soccer players performance factors: A scoping review with evidence-gap map.
... Performance emerges from the interaction of physical, technical, tactical, and psychological factors [1,2], although questions remain regarding their relative weights in explaining individual and collective competitive performance [3][4][5]. In-depth knowledge of match and training demands provides coaches with important information for training monitoring and prescription and managing team volume in the training and competition process [6]. These insights are particularly relevant in soccer, where players are potentially exposed to up to 60 matches throughout the season, and players with regular participation accumulate 84% of all official match time [7][8][9]. ...
... More specifically, number of shots, shots on target (shot success), number of passes and pass completion rates (pass success) were positively correlated with team success [5,79]. Several trials demonstred the total number of short passes, successful passes, and involvements with the ball decreases between the first and second half of soccer matches, probably as aconsequence of players' fatigue [3,79,86,88]. In this sense, the substitutions appear to be a good strategy to counteract this decline in technical performance since the substitute players showed more possession, touches, shots, and defense actions per minute in comparison with the players who were replaced and those who completed the entire match [79,86,88]. ...
... All technical performance data of the research were obtained using the InStat Sport (Instat, Moscow, Russia) and categorized based on various parameters, including soccer field coverage at different speeds, high accelerations, duration of the ball in play, periods, and match results. Numerous soccer teams have employed this method, which tracks the players' performance indicators during the game since it gives the coaches the data they need quickly and accurately 26 . ...
During breaks or playing period changes, players’ accumulated workload, physiological alterations, body composition factors, sleep, and health-related qualities can factor into soccer performance. This research examined the impact of prolonged pauses, including breaks due to the 2022 FIFA World Cup and an earthquake tragedy, on running displacements and ball in-play duration during the 2022/23 Turkish Super League season. The secondary purpose was to determine the relationship between performance metrics and competition outcomes (i.e., wins, losses, or draws). 550 players from 19 Turkish Super League teams were included. Performance metrics such as running speed, accelerations/number of speed actions, total field coverage, and match outcomes (i.e., win, lose, or draw) were analyzed before and after significant pauses in play. We also explored correlations between running speed, number of speed actions, match duration, and total distance covered to understand their influence on soccer performance. Significant differences existed in performance metrics between periods, with higher total displacement and running observed after the World Cup (p < 0.05). Additionally, teams exhibiting more static behavior during matches were likelier to lose points, while those running at higher speeds (p = 0.007) and acceleration (p = 0.008) had a higher winning probability. The findings provide valuable insights into the factors affecting success or failure in soccer matches and have implications for training and preparation strategies in professional soccer. In addition, findings illustrate how breaks influence performance metrics and highlight the challenges coaches face in maintaining player readiness during unplanned pauses. This suggests minimizing such disruptions to support optimal training and preparation strategies in professional soccer.
... This study aimed to determine the influence of teams' defensive showing that successful teams perform a higher number of ball touches [25]. Additionally, teams with a high percentage of ball possession exhibited superior technical quality indicators, such as a higher number of effective touches and passes [26]. ...
... In addition, the analysis of match running performance by halves showed an increase in all variables during the second halves. Contrary to previous studies that reported a decrease in the second halves [13,47], our results showed an increase in both league standards during the second halves. These findings could be explained by the enhanced physical abilities of current soccer players due to more demanding training regimens in recent years, enabling players to sustain HSR efforts throughout matches [48]. ...
Objectives: This study uniquely examines the evolution of match running performance in official matches over four consecutive seasons (2019/2020–2022/23) within Spain’s top two professional soccer leagues (LaLiga). By analyzing differences between competitive league standards (First Division vs. Second Division), this research provides critical insights into how competition levels influence physical performance trends over time. Methods: A total of 6784 match observations were recorded from 95 teams competing in the First and Second Divisions (LaLiga). Performance metrics included total distance (TD), high-speed running (HSR, >21 km·h−1), very high-speed running (VHSR, 21.1–24 km·h−1), sprint distance (Sprint, >24 km·h−1), the number of HSR efforts (Nº. Sprints > 21 km·h−1), and sprint efforts (Nº. Sprints > 24 km·h−1), all analyzed using a computerized tracking system (TRACAB, ChyronHego, New York, NY, USA). Results: The primary findings indicated significantly higher match running performance in First Division matches compared to Second Division matches across all variables (p < 0.001). Furthermore, match running performance significantly increased over the four seasons in both leagues, with notably higher values during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons for all physical performance metrics (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study contributes to understanding the temporal evolution of soccer match performance across competition levels. The findings emphasize the importance of periodic performance monitoring and adapting training loads increasing high-intensity distances to align with escalating physical demands in modern soccer, offering valuable guidance for coaches and performance analysts.
... This research identified physical efficiency as a cheerful moderator of the relationship between the coach's perception of players' tactical skills and abilities and the total amount of minutes played during the regular season. This means that higher levels of physical efficiency positively influence the coach's perception of the player's tactical skills and abilities, which can be explained by a more efficient interpretation of tactical demands during the match [36][37][38]. However, this condition is solid for those players who showed average physical efficiency levels, while it was more vital for those whose levels were one deviation standard above the mean. ...
Background: This study examines the subjective attributes that coaches consider most important for identifying and developing the talent of junior élite football players. It also explores whether players’ physical fitness efficiency moderates these attributes and influences playing time during the regular season. Methods: Forty-three junior élite football players and four Italian Serie A club coaches participated in the study, contributing their unique perspectives and experiences. Players’ physical fitness was assessed using the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Level 1 test, while coaches rated players’ abilities through a structured questionnaire. Results: A significant positive relationship was found between ’understanding of the game and position on the field’ and total playing time (t = 3.498, p < 0.01, β = 0.953). Physical efficiency further strengthened this relationship when players’ fitness levels were average (b = 0.624, p < 0.001) and one standard deviation above the mean (b = 0.891, p < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of tactical awareness in earning playing time and suggest that physical fitness enhances the effect of cognitive abilities on performance. This study provides insights into how coaches assess talent and underscores the value of integrating physical and tactical development in youth football, providing a testament to the power of collaboration in advancing our understanding of talent identification in sports.
... In both soccer and futsal, passing is a fundamental skill, requiring players to receive and deliver a moving ball to specific locations or teammates (Mohammed et al., 2014;Rampinini et al., 2009). Efficient and consistent selection of the appropriate action at the optimal moment is crucial for skillful play (Baker et al., 2003;Gioldasis et al., 2022;Rein et al., 2017). ...
Background: Success in team sports such as soccer and indoor soccer depends heavily on the ability to make accurate and quick decisions due to the dynamic and unpredictable nature of game conditions. This study aimed to create and verify a video-based test that evaluates decision making abilities in players participating in soccer and futsal (VPD SocFut). Methods: The test was carefully designed using real-world video clips and underwent rigorous validation procedures that included content validity checks as well as assessments, for test retest reliability, construct and face validity. Results: Content validity was ensured through two phases of expert evaluation of video clips, resulting in the selection of soccer and futsal clips that demonstrated 70% to 100% agreement in decision appropriateness and difficulty. Reliability was confirmed via test-retest measures, with Cohen’s Kappa values ranging from 0.402 to 1.000. Construct validity was supported by significant differences in passing decision-making performance between subelite and recreational adult and U18 soccer and futsal players (p < .001). Participants consistently rated the test as realistic and enjoyable, which confirmed its face validity. Conclusion: Therefore, the VPD-SocFut suggests a reliable and valid tool for objectively evaluating passing decision-making performance in soccer and futsal. Keywords: soccer, performance, decision-making, testing.
... Interestingly, while most high-intensity variables decreased, the number of accelerations and distance covered at low speeds (0-3 km/h) increased in later periods. This shift in activity profile may reflect tactical adaptations made by players and teams as fatigue sets in, with a greater emphasis on maintaining possession and conserving energy through shorter, less intense actions [42]. Similar tactical adjustments have been observed in other team sports such as soccer where players reduce high-intensity efforts and increase low-intensity activities as matches progress [43]. ...
Beach soccer has gained increasing interest for study in the sports sciences. In this sense, the analysis of activity profiles is important for training design and load individualization. Therefore, the aims of this study were to identify the most important variables to assess the activity profile and to compare them according to the playing position and game periods in international beach soccer matches. A total of 19 matches of the Spanish national beach soccer team were analyzed during their participation in different international competitions during the 2021-2022 season. A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to objectively select the external load variables that best explain the data. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin values of 0.705 and Bartlett's Sphericity (p < 0.01) were obtained. Kruskal-Wallis and Friedman tests was performed for playing positions and game period comparisons, respectively. The PCA showed seven components that grouped a total of 20 variables, explaining 66% of the total variance. Only PC1 and PC2 explained more than 15% (23% and 17%, respectively). Differences were found between playing positions (H > 22.73; p < 0.01) and between game periods (X2 > 16.46; p < 0.01). A significant decrease was found throughout the game, with the highest demands in period 1 and the lowest in period 3. The highest workloads were performed by wingers and the lowest by goalkeepers. The differences between positions and game periods were found in the following: Total Distance (m/min), HIBD (m/min), High Acc (m/s), High Dec (m/s), Acc 1-2 m/s 2 (m), Acc 2-3 m/s 2 (m), Imp 4-5G (n), Imp 5-6G (n), Sprint (n), and Dec 10-6 m/s 2 (m) (p < 0.01). In conclusion, physical and tactical demands faced by elite-level beach soccer players will be influenced by playing positions and game periods. Coaches needs to develop position-specific training programs and optimize substitution strategies for enhancing overall team performance.
... Also, less and high-ranked teams presented the same running requirements at higher speed 25 . On the other hand, in previous studies, less ranked teams were those covering extended overall distances and distances surpassing 14 and 19 km/h, as well as distances exceeding 19.8 and 25.2 km/h 26,27 . ...
This study aims to explore the interplay between locomotor demands and goal differentials to better understand their combined influence on overall success. Spanning three competitive seasons within the male Turkish Super League, this study analyzed all participating teams across 124 matches. Locomotor demands, including total distance (m) covered (TD), distances covered (m) at different speed thresholds (0.21–2.0 m/s; 2.01–4.0 m/s; 4.01–5.5 m/s; and 5.5–7.7 m/s), and the number of accelerations in range of 5.5–7.0 m/s (n), were quantified using an optical tracking system. Subsequently, regression models were employed to predict the total points earned by all teams over the three seasons. The logistic regression model, tailored to predict team categorization as high-points earners (HPE) or low-points earners (LPE) based on locomotor variables, exhibited a mean accuracy of 74%. Notably, total distance covered, running speed intervals between 4.4 and 5.5 m/s, and the number of accelerations in range of 5.5–7.0 m/s emerged as significant predictors of team success. Our findings highlight the pivotal role of running speed (4.01–5.5 m/s), number of accelerations, and total distance in predicting success for high-performing teams. Coaches can leverage these insights to refine training programs, thereby optimizing team performance, and fostering success in competitive environments.
... Interestingly, successful teams in the English Premier League tend to perform less high-intensity running than less successful teams (Di Salvo et al., 2009). Players from successful teams cover shorter distances overall but make more efforts while in possession of the ball (Rampinini et al., 2009). In addition to movement measures, analyzing metabolic parameters, such as heart rate, maximal oxygen consumption ( VO 2max ), blood lactate, muscle glycogen, and creatine phosphate, can offer valuable insights into a player's efforts and fatigue level (Osgnach et al., 2010). ...
Effective management of a soccer team requires informed decision-making that profoundly influences team success, particularly in the dynamic and uncertain environment of the sport. To navigate the complexities, coaches have increasingly adopted data-driven techniques, resulting in an abundance of analyses that can lead to information overload. Therefore, acquiring a comprehensive understanding of existing soccer performance analysis and leveraging relevant insights become crucial. This study encompasses 3263 papers from Scopus published between 1978 and 2022. Our research employs a two-layer bibliometric analysis approach, involving the construction of a broader keyword co-occurrence network and subsequent nested keyword co-occurrence networks to identify and analyze the main research themes and their sub-themes within the field. Through this nested bibliometric approach, we develop a two-layer hierarchical taxonomy comprising seven overarching research themes and 40 corresponding sub-themes, thereby unveiling the intellectual structure of the literature in soccer performance analysis. Furthermore, our methodology allows us to delve deeper into the data collection process, enabling us to measure the proportion of articles effectively included in the keyword co-occurrence network. By employing this nested bibliometric approach, we evaluate the prevalence of multi-thematic papers in the field, revealing a paucity of truly multi-thematic studies. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the intellectual structure of soccer performance analysis, providing valuable insights for both practitioners and researchers to advance knowledge in the field and foster a more comprehensive comprehension of soccer performance analysis.
... This suggests that a team's success largely depends on its ability to create and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Previous studies have shown that winning teams typically record higher numbers of shots, chances, and shot efficiency than less successful teams 14,35 . Additionally, research highlights that in around 70% of matches, the team scoring the first goal usually wins 4,36 , underlining the importance of offensive strength over defensive factors 14 . ...
This study assessed the impact of team offensive variables on goals scored in Spain’s first-division soccer league from 2012–2013 to 2021–2022. A nomothetic multidimensional study was conducted, following the STROBE checklist. From 115 team variables available in the INSTAT database, 57 offensive metrics were selected. The selection was performed independently by five researchers to ensure comprehensive inclusion of relevant metrics. The data included 38 league matches each season, involving 30 teams. The study identified key offensive performance metrics strongly correlated with goals scored. These include shots on target (r = 0.898), chances created (r = 0.871), penalty box entries (r = 0.852), positional attacks with shots (r = 0.818), total shots (r = 0.807), central attacks with shots (r = 0.804), accurate passes (r = 0.760), and efficiency in positional attacks (r = 0.755). The findings underscore the importance of specific offensive metrics in enhancing goal-scoring capabilities. Coaches can improve their team’s offensive performance by focusing on passing accuracy, dribbling, and maximizing scoring chances. Successful teams consistently convert attacks into shots on goal through various situations, including central attacks, flanks, counterattacks, corners, and set pieces. Tactical adjustments based on these insights can optimize offensive effectiveness.
... Video match analysis is a valuable tool for evaluating soccer players' performance. This technique, initially introduced and used to monitor the work-rate profiles of elite players [17,25], has become indispensable for assessing physical and tactical behavior in training and competition. It enables complex analytical evaluations of a large sample size. ...
The influence of playing formations and team ranking on the physical performance of professional soccer players is an open question that needs to be explored. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of these factors on the physical exertion of Serie A soccer players. We analyzed match data from 375 players, categorizing teams based on their final ranking and comparing performance across different playing formations. The Kruskal–Wallis test and the Dunn test with Bonferroni adjustment revealed that high-ranking (HR) teams exhibited a higher percentage of high-intensity (HI) accelerations compared to mid-ranking teams, suggesting the critical role of HI efforts in achieving favorable match outcomes. Moreover, the 4-3-3 playing formation was associated with greater acceleration demands than other formations, particularly in HR teams. Our study also established benchmarks for various performance metrics, enabling coaches to assess player performance and identify potential signs of overtraining. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the physical demands in soccer and offer practical implications for coaches and players in optimizing training and performance strategies.
... Authors also argue that researches on football have been focused on football performance indicators (Jamil, Liu, Phatak, & Memmert, 2021) in order to find alternatives that can influence players and teams performances (Bradley, Carling, McCall, & Dupont, 2016;Jamil et al., 2021;Liu, Gómez, Gonçalves, & Sampaio, 2016;Yang, Leicht, Lago, & Gómez, 2018;Zhou, Zhang, Calvo, & Cui, 2018), also in specific competitions (Liu, Gomez, Lago-Peñas, & Sampaio, 2015;Liu, Hopkins, & Gómez, 2015;Rocha-Lima et al., 2021b, 2021aSchauberger, Groll, & Tutz, 2018) and through relevant data collection (Pulling, 2015), allowing the verification of game models, the rise of teams strong points and also to identify the elements' influence on football performance (Garganta, 2001;Silva, 2007;Yi et al., 2019). Authors already discuss the importance of ball possession to have more finishing opportunities and score more goals (Anderson & Sally, 2013), the positive consequences conceded by more passes and ball touches to teams' success (Rampinini, Impellizzeri, Castagna, Coutts, & Wisløff, 2009), and the actions of ball recovery related to scoring goals opportunities (Hughes, 1990). ...
Purpose: The current article aimed to verify patterns that could explain match results of the Euro Cup 2016, using as references the following match performance indicators: finishing, ball possession, passing, crosses and defensive actions. Methodology/approach: The necessary information about the matches was collected from the Dailymail’s website. The Weka (Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis) program was adopted to help in the analyses of these data. Originality/Relevance: Football matches components have been analysed in order to understand the behavior of the teams in the competitive scenario of this sport. Key findings: The results show that the more accurate shots a national squad takes in their games, the more chances they got to win, instead of using a game plan based on crossing movements. Ball possession, on its turn, can be a good indicator or a bad one to win matches, when associated to a high number of crosses. Moreover, the alternative of long passes seems to be relevant only when the opponent makes more shots from outside the area or get more blocked shots. Complementarily, defensive actions focused on successful tackles and more interceptions appear as a positive aspect for getting the triumph, considering only the total number of tackles. The accuracy of kicks and defensive actions were relevant to the success of the teams in the competition, suggesting that the improvement of actions related to these two indicators should help national teams to improve their own strengths, in order to maximize their chances of winning matches. Theoretical/methodological contributions: Collecting a large volume of football data from a website and using the Weka program have helped not only to speed up and facilitate the analyses but also should have been important in order not to lose any relation that could be relevant inside the studied scenario.
... Aerobic capabilities appear to be a significant factor in overall football performance. Lower maximal aerobic capacity is associated with increased fatigue and declines in both physical performance and technical skills during match play in football (1). On the other side, higher Ȯ2max values have been associated with improved running performance, including higher work rate, higher intensity, and increased sprints during match play (2)(3)(4)(5). ...
Background. Coaches predominantly utilize linear training protocols to enhance the aerobic power of football players. However, there is limited data on the effects of change of direction (COD) protocols on aerobic power in football. Objectives. This study aimed to determine which high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program-linear (LHIIT) or change of direction (COD)-has a more significant impact on increasing aerobic power in senior female football players. Methods. Sixty senior female football players were divided into two experimental groups: LHIIT (n=30) and COD (n=30). Both groups underwent a four-week HIIT protocol, with LHIIT involving linear exercises and COD incorporating change of direction exercises. Aerobic power was measured using the 30-15 intermittent fitness test (IFT), maximal aerobic velocity (MAV), and VO2max at the beginning and end of the study to assess the differences in aerobic adaptations between the two programs. Results. The results indicated that the COD group eliminated the significant difference in VO2max that initially existed between the two groups, suggesting that COD protocols may be more effective in increasing aerobic power than linear ones. Additionally, both groups significantly improved the 30-15 IFT, MAV, and VO2max. Conclusion. Both linear and change of direction HIIT protocols significantly enhance aerobic performance in senior female football players. However, COD protocols may have a more significant impact on VO2max improvement. Future research should explore the potential effects of COD protocols on anaerobic power and seek to identify even more effective HIIT strategies for enhancing VO2max.
... Konefał et al., who analysed the performance frequency of selected technical activities in international soccer players during UEFA Euro 2016, defined long pass and short pass quantitatively at a cut-off of 22.86 m (25 yards) [31]. After studying the changes in technical and physical performance between the first and second half of official Italian Serie A matches, Rampinini et al. proposed the cut-off between short pass and long pass at a distance of 37 m in 186 soccer players with an average age of 27 years [32]. Abbott et al., who investigated the effect of bio-banding upon physical and technical performance of youth soccer players (11-15 years), establish the cut-off between short and long pass at 20 m and stated in their definition that the pass is directed to his teammate and that he successfully controls the ball [30]. ...
(1) Background: The kick of the ball in soccer is considered one of the most important technical gestures in soccer. Despite this, there is little evidence on ball-striking performance factors in base soccer. The main objectives of the present study were to identify the potential factors of long-ball kicking (LBK) performance and to determine the target training cut-off for LBK performance in young soccer players. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 31 soccer players, with ages ranging from 12 to 18 years. Age, anthropometric data, sport experience, range of motion (ROM) and maximal isometric strength (MIS) of the lower limb were noted. Kick-of-the-ball performance was assessed by maximum ball displacement per kick. A k-mean cluster analysis determined two groups according to ball-kicking performance: low group (LPG-LBK) and high group (HPG-LBK). (3) Results: Differences were found between both groups in age, body mass, body mass index, leg length and knee flexion ROM (BF10 ≤ 6.33; δ ≥ 0.86 (moderate or higher)). Among the factors discussed above, age was the strongest predictor of ball-striking performance (odds ratio = 2.867; p = 0.003). The optimal cut-off for age predicting those players most likely to have a higher ball-striking performance was determined to be 13.5 years (p = 0.001; area under the curve = 85.3%). (4) Conclusions: Age over 13.5 increases the chances of a higher optimal ball-striking performance. The flexibility (knee flexion ROM) and strength (knee flexors) must be specifically trained in soccer players beginning at an early age.
... Football players are multi-layer athletes who must have good aerobic and anaerobic abilities (Vasileios et al. 2018). Football players during a match generally cover a distance of 9,500-12,000 meters (Ermanno Rampinini , Franco M. Impellizzeri , Carlo Castagna , Aaron J. Coutts 2009). Knowing this kind of football game activity, health, and physical fitness are crucial for football players to achieve the best performance and reduce the risk of injury. ...
Physiological factors influence the performance of football players, so a coach must know and analyze these factors. This study explored the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and maximal aerobic capacity (VO2 max) on the health and fitness of soccer players in Semarang. The study involved 41 soccer players from various local clubs, aged 14-16 years, who were evaluated through BMI measurement by measuring height and weight and VO2 max test with Multi-Stage Fitness Test. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation to identify the strength and direction of the relationship between variables. The analysis results showed that: 1) Age had a moderate positive correlation with VO2 max (r = 0.366, p = 0.018), indicating that VO2 max values tend to increase with age. However, age showed no significant correlation with the other variables (BMI criteria, BMI, and length of training), 2) BMI criteria had a very high and significant correlation with BMI (r = 0.785, p < 0.001), confirming that the BMI criteria used were highly correlated with actual BMI values. However, no significant correlation was found between BMI criteria and VO2 max and training duration, 3) BMI showed no significant correlation with VO2 max (r = 0.191, p = 0.232) nor with training duration (r = 0.088, p = 0.585), 4) VO2 max had a moderate and significant positive correlation with training duration (r = 0.639, p < 0.001), suggesting that individuals with longer training duration tend to have higher VO2 Max. This study concludes that there is a significant relationship between age and VO2 max as well as between training duration and VO2 max, indicating the importance of both factors in aerobic capacity improvement programs. In addition, the BMI criteria used proved to be valid in reflecting actual BMI values. These results underscore the importance of considering age and duration of training in football players' fitness programs as well as the validity of the BMI criteria used in the study. Keywords: Body Mass Index; VO2 max; Age; Length of Training; Football
... Previous research suggests that sprint velocity, shooting, dribbling, and passing are paramount physical/technical variables for the individual performance of soccer players (Bendiksen, et al., 2012;Calle-Jaramillo, et al., 2024;Currell, et al., 2009;Forcher, et al., 2022;Rampinini, et al., 2008, Rampinini, et al., 2009Russell, et al., 2011a, Sánchez, et al., 2024Saputra, et al., 2024). In general, only one or a few of these aspects have been analysed in the same simulation study mostly focusing on the physical approach (Kusuma et al., 2024), and so far, the effect of short-term intense periods on them has not been considered. ...
Soccer match simulations provide valuable information on player performance and training methods but how intensity during a game affects a player's physical/technical performance has yet to be explored. The objective of the study was to analyse the impact of variable intensity intervals during the first block of the Copenhagen Soccer Test. A repeated measures study was designed to compare three intensity levels, three time periods and their effects on sprint speed, perceived effort, goal shooting accuracy, dribbling, and long pass accuracy in professional soccer players. The comparison analysis between different phases showed a significant decrease in sprint speed (p < 0.001) and an increase in perceived effort (p < 0.001), however, the technical variables did not change (p > 0.05). When comparing the data based on intensity, significant decreases were observed in all variables (p < 0.001). The combined analysis of the results indicates that the speed decreases and the rate of perceived exertion increases as the simulation progresses. Meanwhile, the accuracy of goal kicks, dribbling, and long passes are negatively affected by high-intensity efforts, but demonstrate recovery over the course of the simulation. The increase in intensity affects the speed more than the accuracy of shots on goal, dribbling and passing. Keywords: Performance, Soccer, Intensity, Physical performance, Technical performance.
... Video match analysis is a valuable tool for evaluating soccer players' performance. This technique, initially introduced and used to monitor the work-rate profiles of elite players [17,25], has become indispensable for assessing the physical and tactical behavior in training and competition. It enables complex analytical evaluations on a large sample size. ...
The influence of playing formations and team ranking on the physical performance of professional soccer players is an open question that needs to be explored. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of these factors on the physical exertion of Serie A soccer players. We analyzed match data from 375 players, categorizing teams based on their final ranking and comparing performance across different playing formations. Krustal-Wallies test, and Dunn test with Bonferroni adjustment, revealed that high-ranking (HR) teams exhibited a higher percentage of high-intensity (HI) accelerations compared to mid-ranking teams, suggesting the critical role of HI efforts in achieving favorable match outcomes. Moreover, the 4-3-3 playing formation was associated with greater acceleration demands than other formations, particularly in HR teams. Our study also established benchmarks for various performance metrics, enabling coaches to assess player performance and identify potential signs of overtraining. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the physical demands in soccer and offer practical implications for coaches and players in optimizing training and performance strategies.
... Other studies reported drops in physical performance throughout a game 24 and one-on-one successful actions. 25 Therefore, the reduced spatial exploration could be explained by the deleterious effect of fatigue on players' game-play activities. Therefore, it could be argued that teams tend to show drops in tactical performance throughout the game. ...
This study aimed to compare position-based variables between winning, losing, and drawing teams and to identify which among these variables would better predict the goal difference in the 2021–2022 German Bundesliga. The dataset comprised 275 official games, monitored through a semi-automatic camera system. For each game, players’ and ball’s positions were captured and exported in 10 Hz. Position-based variables comprised teams’ length, width, length per width ratio (LPWratio), stretching index, and near-the-ball space control in both offensive and defensive phases, as well as in the first and the second halves. Data were compared between the game outcomes using a Generalized Linear Model. Results indicated that winning teams in the Bundesliga tend to approach the first half of the game by expanding the field during the offensive phase (evidenced by a higher offensive width and stretching index), pressing high during the defensive phase (manifested through a greater defensive length), and exerting control over the space in the second half by concentrating players near the ball (indicated by higher near-the-ball space control). Differences between halves indicate that teams must be able to adapt their tactics during the game to succeed in the competition.
... This has facilitated the access to data from complete matches played in the same league. Specifically, the five top leagues have been a subject of extensive research, in the Premier League (Barnes et al., 2014;Bradley et al., 2013;Bush et al., 2015;DiSalvo et al., 2009;Gregson et al., 2010), in the Spanish La Liga (Castellano & Casamichana, 2016;Castellano, 2018;DiSalvo et al., 2007;Errekagorri et al., 2022;Lago-Peñas et al., 2022), in the German Bundesliga (Andrzejewski et al., 2017;Hoppe et al., 2015;Konefal et al., 2019), in the Italian Serie A (Mohr et al., 2003;Rampinini et al., 2009;Vigne et al., 2013) and, to a lesser extent, in the French Ligue 1 (Dellal et al., 2010). The studies conclude that elite soccer requires players to perform many high-intensity efforts, then the importance of the high-intensity activity profiles of elite soccer players, highlighting variations in physical demands based on playing positions. ...
... Consequently, studies in the literature argue that technical/tactical and psychological skills will ultimately discriminate between more successful and less successful teams (Di Salvo, Gregson, Atkinson, Tordoff & Drust, 2009; Rampinini et al., 2009;Rumpf et al., 2017). According to Bradley et al. (2011), differences in tactical instructions may also be affected by the physical demands placed on soccer players in possession and non-possession situations. ...
The aim of this study is to reveal the differences of the physical, and technical-tactical performances of the countries participating in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the relationship performance parameters with the tournament success. 14 technical-tactical and 2 physical performances, 16 parameters in total were evaluated. As a result of the analyses, statistically significant differences were found between the number of goals scored, the number of goals conceded, the number of shots on goal, the number of possession in the final third and the number of corners used by the countries that reached the last 16 and the countries that failed to advance to the next round. At the end of the quarter-final matches, no statistically significant difference was found between the performances of the countries that advanced to the semi-finals and the countries that were eliminated. There is a moderate to high positive correlation between the percentage of possession, total and accurate number and percentage of passes, attempts at goal, attempts at goal on target, completed line breaks and interceptions in the final third and total number of goals for the countries that won the competition in the tournament. As a result, it can be said that physical performances are similar in elite level women's football, but teams that have more possession of the ball and are willing to take advantage of opportunities to score goals can make a difference.
... Authors also argue that researches on football have been focused on football performance indicators (Jamil, Liu, Phatak, & Memmert, 2021) in order to find alternatives that can influence players and teams performances (Bradley, Carling, McCall, & Dupont, 2016;Jamil et al., 2021;Liu, Gómez, Gonçalves, & Sampaio, 2016;Yang, Leicht, Lago, & Gómez, 2018;Zhou, Zhang, Calvo, & Cui, 2018), also in specific competitions (Liu, Gomez, Lago-Peñas, & Sampaio, 2015;Liu, Hopkins, & Gómez, 2015;Rocha-Lima et al., 2021b, 2021aSchauberger, Groll, & Tutz, 2018) and through relevant data collection (Pulling, 2015), allowing the verification of game models, the rise of teams strong points and also to identify the elements' influence on football performance (Garganta, 2001;Silva, 2007;Yi et al., 2019). Authors already discuss the importance of ball possession to have more finishing opportunities and score more goals (Anderson & Sally, 2013), the positive consequences conceded by more passes and ball touches to teams' success (Rampinini, Impellizzeri, Castagna, Coutts, & Wisløff, 2009), and the actions of ball recovery related to scoring goals opportunities (Hughes, 1990). ...
Purpose: The current article aimed to verify patterns that could explain match results of the Euro Cup 2016, using as references the following match performance indicators: finishing, ball possession, passing, crosses and defensive actions. Methodology/approach: The necessary information about the matches was collected from the Dailymail’s website. The Weka (Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis) program was adopted to help in the analyses of these data. Originality/Relevance: Football matches components have been analysed in order to understand the behavior of the teams in the competitive scenario of this sport. Key findings: The results show that the more accurate shots a national squad takes in their games, the more chances they got to win, instead of using a game plan based on crossing movements. Ball possession, on its turn, can be a good indicator or a bad one to win matches, when associated to a high number of crosses. Moreover, the alternative of long passes seems to be relevant only when the opponent makes more shots from outside the area or get more blocked shots. Complementarily, defensive actions focused on successful tackles and more interceptions appear as a positive aspect for getting the triumph, considering only the total number of tackles. The accuracy of kicks and defensive actions were relevant to the success of the teams in the competition, suggesting that the improvement of actions related to these two indicators should help national teams to improve their own strengths, in order to maximize their chances of winning matches. Theoretical/methodological contributions: Collecting a large volume of football data from a website and using the Weka program have helped not only to speed up and facilitate the analyses but also should have been important in order not to lose any relation that could be relevant inside the studied scenario.
... In this study, almost half of all CMFT occurred at the end of the first and second half of playtime. This pattern may be induced by mental and physical fatigue, which is known to cause deleterious effects on performance, 30,31 as well as pressure to achieve better results before halftime or match ends. Other studies have observed similar results for other types of injuries. ...
This study aimed to investigate the incidence and other significant features of craniomaxillofacial trauma (CMFT), particularly Sport-Related Concussion (SRC), among professional soccer players from two major leagues in Brazil. This is a prospective epidemiological study which assessed two divisions of the national championship and large regional one over four seasons. Data were gathered from soccer clubs and their medical staff using two online forms. Data related to players (age and position) and injuries (diagnosis, type, body location, laterality, field location, tests performed, need for surgery, time lost in sports, and recurrence) were collected. Between 2016-2019, a total of 15 seasons, comprising 3 828 matches and 126 324 hours (h) of gameplay, were analyzed. A total of 299 CMFT cases were reported, with a median incidence of 2.37 per 1 000 h of play. Among them, there were 178 head and 121 face traumas, which led to 87 SRC (representing 29.10% of all CMFT), with an incidence of 0.69. Defensive midfielders (14.43%) and goalkeepers (14.00%) had the highest prevalence rates of CMFT. Only 3.68% of the injuries, mostly lacerations and fractures, required surgical treatment. This study identified that the average time lost in sports due to SRC was 5.12 days, with a recurrence rate of 12.71%. SRC are a frequent consequence of CMFT in Brazilian professional soccer. Although most cases are mild, there is a high recurrence rate, which may have long-term implications.
... Standardization provided more consistent match profiles 15 . Based on literature precedents [16][17][18] , six technical indicators and six physical indicators representing key elements of football performance were selected for analysis as defined in Table 2. ...
To explore the dynamics in physical and technical performance of professional football players and changes across age groups. Match statistics were collected from 1900 games across ten seasons (2012–2021) in the Chinese Super League. Generalized additive models visualized age-related trends in 12 key performance indicators including technical and physical variables. Revealed nonlinear trajectories characterized by rapid early declines, stable peak periods and accelerated late decreases. Physical indicators decreased progressively from the early 20 s before stabilizing briefly then declining further after 30. Conversely, technical metrics gradually improved into the late 20 s and early 30 s prior to decreasing again. This study provides novel evidence that football performance changes nonlinearly across age. Targeted training and development strategies should be tailored to the specific needs of different career stages.
... There are several possible explanations for these findings. A possible explanation for this might be by the performance of many high-intensity efforts in the first half and the resulting fatigue, which may be induced by many physiological factors and cause the reduction of TD (Rampinini et al., 2009). However, these results could be also related to the game interruptions. ...
... One way to analyze the performance of soccer players is by video match analysis. This technique has been introduced and used to monitor the work-rate profiles of elite players [9,15] during the game. This technology has become indispensable to assess the physical and tactical behavior of training and competition, allowing complicated analytical evaluations on a large sample size. ...
In soccer, roles, and substitutions could make unclear how different physical capacities decrease over time and impact performance. This investigation aimed to analyze kinematic parameters and their changes over game time and provide information to effectively prescribe training programs. Data from four professional teams were analyzed, and all the teams competed in the Premier Division championship. Average metabolic power and high-intensity activities associated with critical moments in the match were considered in the comparisons. The video analysis system STATS SportVU collected the data during official matches. Players were assigned to a specific group according to their time played, categorized as follows: 0-15’, 15-30’, 30-45’, 45-60’, 60-75’, 75-90’, and > 90 min. Different roles, including forwards and wingers (FW), midfielders (MF), center-backs (CB), and side-backs (SB) were also considered. Significant differences (p<0.05) were found in different roles and within roles at different times played. The results highlighted how MF performance decreased over time, whereas CB was unaffected by time. SB spent more time at very high velocity than other roles, independently from the time played. These findings provide valuable information about the physical demands of official soccer games and could be used to review training prescriptions.
... Multiple studies have demonstrated this to be a reliable and valid means of assessing athletic performance. 8,16,18,29,32,37 This technology has been used heavily in Australian football, rugby, and soccer. 13,17,21,23,26,27,31,34,37,38 More recently, GNSS/LPS data have been used in American football to evaluate their correlation with soft tissue injuries. ...
Background
Hamstring strains are common among elite athletes, but their effect on return to the same level of play in American football has been incompletely characterized.
Purpose
Data on National Collegiate Athletics Association Division I college football players with acute hamstring strains were gathered to identify the effects these injuries have on both return to play and athletic performance regarding velocity, workload, and acceleration.
Study Design
Case Series; Level of evidence, 4.
Methods
Injury data for a single Division I football team were prospectively recorded over a 4-year period. Players wore global navigation satellite system and local positioning system (GNSS/LPS) devices to record movement data in practices and games. The practice and game data were cross-referenced to evaluate players with isolated acute hamstring strains. Comparisons were made regarding players’ pre- and postinjury ability to maintain high velocity (>12 mph [19.3 kph]), maximal velocity, triaxial acceleration, and inertial movement analysis (IMA). There were 58 hamstring injuries in 44 players, of which 25 injuries from 20 players had GNSS/LPS data.
Results
Players were able to return to play from all 25 injury incidences at a mean of 9.2 days. At the final mean follow-up of 425 days, only 4 players had reached preinjury function in all measurements; 12 players were able to return in 2 of the 4 metrics; and only 8 players reached their preinjury ability to maintain high velocity. For those who did not achieve this metric, there was a significant difference between pre- and postinjury values (722 vs 442 m; P = .016). A total of 14 players were able to regain their IMA. Players who returned to prior velocity or acceleration metrics did so at a mean of 163 days across all metrics.
Conclusion
While players may be able to return to play after hamstring strain, many players do not reach preinjury levels of acceleration or velocity, even after 13.5 months. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings, assess clinical relevance on imaging performance, and improve hamstring injury prevention and rehabilitation.
... In game settings, soccer players spend most of their time running without the ball. Studies looking at professional soccer players found during a 90 min match, players only have possession of the ball for 81 s on average [32] and touch the ball approximately 39.6 times [33]. In contrast, soccer players typically run about 10 kilometers during a 90 min match, spending 80-90% of their time near their anaerobic threshold [34]. ...
Soccer is a laterally dominant sport owing to the repetitive nature of unilateral kicking. The relationship between functional and body composition asymmetries related to limb dominance in soccer players has yet to be established. When present, asymmetries can increase the risk of injury and low back pain. Our study investigated whether lateral dominance is associated with limb asymmetries in a comprehensive body composition assessment among varsity soccer players. Twenty-seven varsity soccer players (age 20.4 ± 1.7 years old; BMI 22.6 ± 4.6 kg/m²) participated in this study. Body composition was assessed through dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans. Results showed low lower limb asymmetry indices in both males (3.82%) and females (3.36%) compared to normal ranges. However, upper limb lean mass exhibited high asymmetry, surpassing thresholds in males (7.3%) and females (4.39%). Significant differences were found in total bone mass among males and total lean body mass among females. Male players exhibited higher asymmetry indices in both arm and trunk mass compared to females. Despite these asymmetries, no significant correlations were found between asymmetry indices and occurrences of lower limb injury or low back pain. The study suggests that while evaluating body composition for injury prevention in soccer shows potential, lateral dominance may be influenced by factors extending beyond sport-specific adaptations.
... Regarding movement performance, it is noted that other factors related to the complexity of football matches can influence the achieved result. Primarily, these include the playing formation [4], opponent [90], ball possession [91], and the technical level of the footballers [92]. This indicates that some players with high physical capacities do not cover great distances due to the tactical limitations of their role in the team. ...
The aim of the study was to examine the association between cardiorespiratory and metabolic parameters and match running performance (MRP) in highly trained football players. The sample of participants consisted of 41 national-level football players (aged 23.20 ± 3.40 yrs, body height 182.00 ± 5.15 cm, and body mass 76.86 ± 6.06 kg) from the Serbian Super league. For the purposes of this research, the following measurements were applied. A maximal multistage progressive treadmill test, with a direct measurement of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) (using Fitmate MED, Cosmed, Rome, Italy) was conducted, alongside continuous heart rate monitoring. Capillary blood samples were taken from the hyperemic area using specific test strips, and, after sample collection, lactate concentration was immediately determined using a lactate analyzer. MRP variables were analyzed according to the BioIRC model of motion structure analysis, based on existing standards for profiling movement intensity. The results of multiple regression analysis indicated an association between cardiac parameters and total distance (R2 = 54.3%, p = 0.000), high-speed running (R2 = 46.4%, p = 0.000), and jogging (R2 = 33.6%, p = 0.004). Regression analysis revealed an association between cardiorespiratory parameters and total distance (R2 = 24.8%, p = 0.014), and high-speed running (R2 = 20%, p = 0.039). Meanwhile, no association was found between lactate concentration and running performance. The explanation for these regression analysis results is based on the observation that functional abilities represent significant potential for expressing movement performance, a crucial condition for success in football.
... Soccer is a game of skills and strategy, and one of the most crucial techniques is short passing [1][2][3]. A player's ability to make short passes is important for the team to initiate offense and control the pace of the game. ...
Objective
This study synthesizes evidence from the Loughborough Passing Test to evaluate the short-passing ability of soccer players and summarizes the reported variables that affect this ability to provide support for the development and improvement of short-passing abilities in soccer players.
Methods
In this systematic review using the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in Web of Science, PubMed, and EBSCOhost from inception to July 2023 to identify relevant articles from the accessible literature. Only studies that used the Loughborough test to assess athletes' short-passing ability were included. The quality of the included studies was independently assessed by two reviewers using the PEDro scale, and two authors independently completed the data extraction.
Results
Based on the type of intervention or influencing factor, ten studies investigated training, nine studies investigated fatigue, nine studies investigated supplement intake, and five studies investigated other factors.
Conclusion
Evidence indicates that fitness training, small-sided games training, and warm-up training have positive effects on athletes' short-passing ability, high-intensity special-position training and water intake have no discernible impact, mental and muscular exhaustion have a significantly negative effect, and the effect of nutritional ergogenic aid intake is not yet clear. Future research should examine more elements that can affect soccer players' short-passing ability.
Trial registration
https://inplasy.com/., identifier: INPLASY20237.
... Many studies in the literature have compared the distances covered by soccer players in different playing positions across different leagues including the English Premier League (Di Salvo et al., 2013;E. Rampinini et al., 2007), Serie A in Italy (Rampinini et al., 2009) ...
This study examined variations in match physical performances of Turkish Super League soccer players over four consecutive seasons taking into account playing position. Data were derived from 1224 different match indices for 17997 observations of 25 different teams. These data were collected over the four seasons from 2015–16 to 2018–19 utilizing a multi-camera computerized tracking system. Playing positions were categorized as follows: central defender (CD), external defender (ED), central midfielder (CM), external midfielder (EM), and forward (FWR). The data analysed covered total distance, as well as distances covered in the following conditions: high-speed running (HSR, 20-23.9 km.h-1), sprinting (> 24 km.h-1), high metabolic power (HMP; from 20 to 35 W·kg-1), elevated metabolic power (EMP; from 35 to 55 W·kg-1), and maximal metabolic power (MMP; > 55 W·kg-1). Players in the CM position were found to cover a significantly greater total distance, as well as significantly greater HMP and EMP distances than all other positions, while those in EM and ED positions engaged in significantly greater high-speed running and sprint distance than all other positions (p
Amaç: Bu çalışmanın amacı, kadın futbolcuların tekrarlı sprint yetenekleri ile isabetli şut atma becerileri arasındaki ilişkilerin değerlendirilmesidir. Gereç ve Yöntem: Araştırmaya, Türkiye Futbol Federasyonu 2023-2024 sezonu Kadınlar Süper Ligi'nde oynayan 19-30 (yaş: 24,48±2,60 yıl) yaşları arasında 21 kadın futbolcu katıldı. Sporcular, tekrarlı sprint (6 sprint süresi, yorgunluk indeksi, sprint azalma yüzdesi) ve teknik performans (Mor-Christian isabetli şut atma testi) testleri ile değerlendirildi. Katılımcıların isabetli şut atma performans puanlarının medyan değeri (110 puan) kesme noktası olarak alındı. Buna göre istatistiksel karşılaştırmalar, düşük (≤110 puan) ve yüksek performans (>110 puan) grupları şeklinde ikiye ayrılarak yapıldı. Bulgular: Düşük ve yüksek isabetli şut atma oranlarına sahip performans grupları arasında; sprint süresi toplamı (p=0.282), yorgunluk indeksi (p=0.756) ve sprint performans azalma yüzdesi (p=0.756) açısından anlamlı bir fark saptanmadı. Spearman korelasyon analizi sonuçlarına göre; sprint süresi toplamı ile yorgunluk indeksi arasında orta düzeyde pozitif (r=0.472, p= 0.031), yorgunluk indeksi ile sprint performans azalma yüzdesi arasında büyük düzeyde negatif (r =-0.557, p=0.009) ilişkiler olduğu belirlendi. Şut atma performansı ile sprint bileşenleri arasında anlamlı bir ilişki olmadığı tespit edildi (p>0.05). Sonuç: Kadın futbolcuların tekrarlı sprint performansları ile sprint süreleri ve yorgunluk indeksi arasında belirgin ilişkiler gözlendi; ancak şut atma teknik performansının bu parametrelerden bağımsız olduğu sonucuna varıldı. Futbolcuların tekrarlı sprint ve şut atma performanslarının birbirinden bağımsız olarak ele alınması, antrenman stratejilerinin geliştirilmesi açısından değerli olabilir.
Background and Study Aim. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) plays a crucial role in modern football performance, particularly in youth development where proper assessment and monitoring can significantly impact long-term athletic potential. While laboratory-based measurements of maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max) are accurate, there is a need to validate practical field-based testing methods for youth players, especially in regions with unique environmental conditions like Iraqi Kurdistan. The present study investigated the relationship between Cardiorespiratory Fitness (CRF) and Maximum Oxygen Consumption (VO2 max) among 16-year-old football players at Zakho Football Club. Material and Methods. The descriptive correlational method was employed to examine the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max) in 16-year-old junior football players. A random sample of twenty players was selected from a population of thirty-two players. The research utilized multiple assessment tools including the Cooper 12-minute test for CRF evaluation, heart rate monitoring through Garmin fēnix® 7 devices for measuring cardiovascular responses, and Cooper's formula for VO2 max estimation. Testing procedures were standardized and conducted at Dalal Sports Stadium during evening sessions to minimize environmental effects. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics and correlation coefficients. Results. The results revealed varying levels of cardiorespiratory fitness among players, with the majority demonstrating above-average performance levels. Statistical analysis showed a strong positive correlation between Cooper test performance and VO2 max values, validating the effectiveness of field-based testing for assessing cardiorespiratory fitness in Junior players. Heart rate response patterns indicated diverse cardiovascular adaptations across performance levels, suggesting the need for individualized training approaches. Conclusion. The findings contribute to understanding the relationship between field-based fitness assessments and physiological responses in Junior football, particularly in regions with unique environmental conditions. This research provides practical insights for optimizing Junior football development programs while highlighting the importance of considering individual adaptation patterns in training design.
Research Abstract Many athletes believe that it enhances the level of performance during training and competition, in addition to compensating for fluids during exercise when the levels of temperature and humidity in the atmosphere rise during the athlete's intensive training, as it increases the requirements for fluid compensation to avoid the risk of potential thermal disorders. If training continues for more than an hour causing fatigue, athletes are advised to drink carbohydrate drinks that quickly convert to glucose in the blood, while sodium should be included in the fluids consumed during exercise or matches that last more than (1-2 hours). The effect of drinking a drink containing 12% carbohydrates and electrolytes before each half of a simulated football match facilitates the maintenance of passing performance and improves the ability of high-intensity running in football academy players. This study aims to know the effect of mineral and sugar solutions with different mineral concentrations 2%-5% with a carbohydrate percentage of 10% in an amount of 500 ml of water on some physical abilities and functional indicators. The study was conducted on football academy players aged 15-16 years, where the research sample amounted to 20 players and they were divided into two groups for each group (n = 10 experimental 1 took 2% mineral salts and 10% sugar) (n = 10 experimental 2 took 5% mineral salts and 10% sugar)) They were trained three training units per week and the field experiment was conducted on them by holding matches within the academy's football activity while they represented one of the teams. The study concluded that.-Mineral and sugar solutions support the irrigation process and have the effect of maintaining the levels of mineral salts inside the body-Enhancing the fluids given with mineral salts helps in retaining fluids inside the body
The Covid-19 pandemic has caused many changes in the football branch, as in all areas. In order to protect the health of athletes in football during the pandemic process, the rule of changing 3 players has been temporarily increased to 5. Later, the 5 player substitution rule was made permanent. The aim of this thesis is to examine the positive and negative effects of the 5 substitution rules on the game and its actors.
Mixed research design, in which quantitative and qualitative research methods are applied together, was used in the research. The "Causal Comparison Method" was used in the quantitative dimension. Quantitative analysis was in the form of comparison of seasons in terms of in-game variables, substitution times and player injuries. In the Qualitative Section, “Case Study Method” was used. The interviews in the qualitative research were conducted with 12 football players and 12 coaches. Quantitative data were analyzed with the SPSS.20 program. Content analysis was carried out by coding and theming the qualitative data with the NVIVO10.0 program. In the study, variables such as "temporary injury numbers", "shots not hitting the goal", "blocked shots", "yellow cards", "total number of passes", "total number of attacks", "number of dangerous attacks", "substitution periods" statistically significant differences were found according to the seasons (p<0.05). When the qualitative findings of the research are examined, the most coded themes regarding the positive opinions of the participants are "removal of tired players from the field", "contribution to the coach", "characteristics of the player", "involvement of players with high energy / not tired", "providing a positive effect", "more number of players involved in the game”, “the effect of the new player on the game is high”, “expansion in the cadres”, “reduction in sports injuries”, “protecting the player”, “positive effect on the health of the athlete”, “5 substitutions are considered sufficient”. The theme with the most negative coding was found to be "decreased game speed".
As a result, it can be said that the reflections of the rule change are at a positive level and the game actors are generally satisfied with the rule change, from the quantitative findings obtained by the comparison of the seasons covered in the research and the participant interviews conducted within the scope of the research. It is thought that the results of this research will contribute to the football sport by revealing the positive and negative effects of the rule change.
El objetivo de esta tesis doctoral fue registrar, analizar y cuantificar, por primera vez, el perfil CT y CF mediante tecnología IMU en jugadores profesionales de fútbol durante partidos.
La investigación está basada en un diseño observacional del análisis de la CT y CF
durante partidos de un equipo profesional de fútbol. Un total de 18 futbolistas
profesionales (n=18) de 24.6 ± 2.7 años, 1.78 ± 0.32 estatura (m), 74.6 ± 4.5 masa (kg), 23.54 ± 2.7 IMC (kg.m2), 9.76 ± 2.20 % graso, y 65.6 ± 2.7 VO2 Max (ml·kg·min2) pertenecientes a un mismo equipo, tomaron parte en este estudio. En el estudio se realizaron un total de 103 registros, los jugadores fueron clasificados de acuerdo a su posición específica: Defensa Lateral (DL: n=4), Defensa Central (DC: n=3), Mediocampista (MD: n=4), Extremo (EX: n=4) y Delantero (DT. n=3).
En el análisis de las variables CF encontramos que WR (m/min) (p= ≤ 0.001, ES: 0.92), DR (m) (p= 0.02, ES: 0.57), DAI (m) (p= 0.01, ES: 0.27), DAI (m/min) (p= ≤ 0.001, ES:0.36), DS (m) (p= 0.02, ES: 0.21), DS (m/min) (p= 0.01, ES: 0.23), SP (#) (p= 0.04, ES:0.29), SP (#/min) (p= 0.01, ES: 0.37), DRZ3 (p= 0.01, ES: 0.31), DRZ4 (p= 0.01, ES:0.26) y DRZ5 (p= 0.02, ES: 0.24), generan valores significativamente mayores en la primera parte que en la segunda. Con respecto a las diferentes posiciones específicas, se observaron diferencias significativas por puestos tanto para variables de CT como para variables de CF. Atendiendo a variables de CT, por puestos específicos los MD son los que generaron un mayor registro de TT, sin alcanzar diferencias significativas con DC (p= 0.84), pero obteniendo diferencias significativas con DL (p = 0.01) y con DT (p ≤0.001). Estos resultados enfatizan la naturaleza independiente de CT desde la CF, y brindan información valiosa sobre las demandas técnicas de los jugadores en diferentes posiciones durante los partidos.
Como conclusión principal, se afirma que el perfil de CF de los futbolistas profesionales, en función de su posición de juego, resulta independiente del desarrollo de CT observado durante los partidos. Por lo tanto, monitorear, cuantificar y controlar tanto el perfil de CT y CF de los jugadores de fútbol ofrece una comprensión más integral y holística de las demandas en los partidos en comparación con el análisis únicamente de CF.
Competition analysis in football is an important method to evaluate the success and failure of teams. Home advantage is considered as an important factor in achieving success in competitions. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of home advantage on technical criteria in the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League, which are organised at club level, played in the 2021-2022 season. In the data collection phase, descriptive survey method was used. Within the scope of the research, a total of 262 football matches, excluding the final matches played at neutral grounds and total of 744 goals scored in these matches were analysed in terms of home and away teams in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League. The goals scored were categorised as the goal minutes intervals, the goal scoring areas (Inside the Penalty Area: IPA; Outside the Penalty Area: OPA), the ways goals were scored (Head Kick; Foot Kick), the number of touches on the ball before the goal (1 Touch: 1T; 2 Touches: 2T; 3 Touches: 3T; 4 Touches + >4T), the direction of attack before the goal and the goals scored from set-pieces (Corner Kick; Penalty Kick and Free Kick) for the home and away teams. The images of the analysed goals were accessed on the UEFA official website with open access permission. Frequency (f) and percentage (%) were calculated for the evaluation of the data obtained, and since the data did not show normal distribution according to the Shapiro-Wilk test results, Kruskal-Wallis test was applied to look at the difference between the groups and the significance level was accepted as p
Currently, most research into the evolution of player performance in women's football has focused on physical performance. In contrast, we lack data-driven research into the technical and tactical developments of the women's game. This paper aims to fill this research gap by analysing an extensive longitudinal dataset containing event data for 3510 matches over eight years in the game's top leagues. It uses analytics techniques to assess changes in technical skills and tactical behaviours in the women's game. Tactically, we observe longer possession sequences and fewer long-distance shots. Technically, we observe that players are completing more difficult and valuable passes at a higher rate, and putting a higher percentage of shots on target, with a particular emphasis on aiming for the corners of the goal. These findings could aid football practitioners to account for the developments of the game.
Context:
The hip adductor and abductor muscles play vital roles as stabilizers in the lower-extremity. Their activation during soccer-specific actions is essential, but local muscular fatigue can hinder athletic performance and increase the risk of injury.
Design:
This study aimed to observe the variations in frontal plane hip strength in female college soccer players before and after a high-workload soccer-specific training session. Furthermore, the study sought to compare the relative changes in hip strength with the internal and external load measures obtained during that session.
Methods:
Twenty female college soccer players participated in a retrospective observational study. Isometric hip adductor and abductor strength were measured before and after a training session in the college spring season. Measurements were taken with a handheld dynamometer (MicroFET 2) while the players were supine. Global positioning system sensors (Catapult Vector S7), commonly worn by players during training sessions and competitive matches, were used to measure external and internal loads. Statistical analyses were performed using paired samples t test to assess hip adductor and abductor strength changes before and after the training session. Spearman rank was used to identify correlation coefficients between global positioning system data and isometric hip strength.
Results:
The findings revealed significant decreases in the strength of the right hip adduction (P = .012, -7% relative change), right abduction (P = .009, -7.6% relative change), and left abduction (P = .016, -4.9% relative change) after the training session. Furthermore, relative decreases in hip isometric adduction and abduction strength are related to the distance covered at high speeds.
Conclusion:
The results of this study highlight that hip isometric adduction and abduction strength tend to decrease after exposure to high workloads during soccer-specific training.
Amaç: Bu çalışmanın amacı, profesyonel futbolcular üzerinde gerçekleştirilen ve 10 haftalık bir süreç boyunca uygulanan 30 metrelik hız ve kompleks antrenmanların, yüksek şiddetli koşu ve sprint aktivite profiline olan etkisini incelemektir. Yöntem: Balıkesir spor takımında futbol oynayan 20 A takım futbolcusu, basit rastgele örnekleme yöntemiyle seçilerek araştırmaya katılmıştır. Katılımcılar, deney ve kontrol grubu olarak ikiye ayrılmıştır. Deney grubundaki sporculara, takımlarının futbol antrenmanlarının dışında haftada bir gün ek olarak 30 metrelik hız ve kompleks antrenman uygulanmıştır. Deney ve kontrol grubuna 1. hafta ön ölçüm, 5. hafta ara ölçüm ve 10. hafta son ölçüm olmak üzere toplam üç ölçüm alınmıştır. Veriler, GPS temelli Polar Team Pro cihazı kullanılarak elde edilmiştir. Elde edilen veriler repeated measures ANOVA testi kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir. Araştırmada anlamlılık değeri 0,05 olarak belirlenmiştir. Bulgular: 30 metre hız ve kompleks antrenman uygulanan deney grubu; yüksek tempolu koşu aktivite profilinde kontrol grubuna göre anlamlı farklılık gösterirken (p0.05). Yüksek tempolu koşu aktivite profilinde deney grubu ile kontrol grubu arasındaki fark incelendiğinde; deney grubunun ortalamaları 1., 2. ve 3. ölçümde giderek artarken, kontrol grubunda artış göstermemiştir. Sonuç: Sonuç olarak futbolcular üzerinde yapılan çalışmada 30 metre hız ve kompleks antrenmanın yüksek şiddetli koşular üzerinde deney ve kontrol grubu arasında fark oluştururken, sprint koşu üzerinde herhangi bir fark oluşturmamıştır.
The research aimed to examine the effect of important game-related statistics on the success of the teams that made it to the knockout stages of the Champions League for 5 years (between 2015-2016 and 2019-2020 seasons). In the research, 139 matches of 35 teams that took part in the top 16 rounds, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final tours of UEFA Champions League competitions were examined. The teams were divided into two groups the teams that qualified and the teams that were eliminated. Independent samples t-test was used to compare the in-game variables of the teams that passed the round and were eliminated. Linear discriminant analysis was used to determine important in-game variables between teams. The results of this research show that the number of statistical data related to the game between the teams that passed the round and the eliminated teams differed or decreased as they progressed from the round of 16 to the final. (Last of 16: goals scored, ball possession (%), duels won (%), passes, shots, number of shots on target, shots outside the penalty area, shots inside the penalty area, tackle, and red cards; Quarter-final round: shots on target; Semi-finals: aerial won (%), duels won (%), attacking sides rates (%)). In the study, it was found that only the goals scored and conceded in the last 16 and quarter-finals in the knockout stages had distinctive power, but no distinguishing variable was found in the semi-final and final stages. Therefore, the champions league is one of the most followed organizations by football coaches and professionals. The tactical approaches of the teams that are successful in this tournament should be followed by football coaches at all levels and the variables that ensure success should be included during training and matches.
This study evaluated internal load (IL) and wellness between consecutive field hockey matches played over a 2-day period across a 7-week season consisting of 12 total matches. Twelve NCAA Division I hockey players’ IL was assessed by heart rate (HR) zones (zone 1 = 50–60% HRmax, zone 2 = 60–70% HRmax, zone 3 = 70–80% HRmax, zone 4 = 80–90% HRmax, and zone 5 > 90% HRmax) and HR-derived training impulse. Wellness items (sleep, stress, fatigue, soreness, and total wellness) were obtained to measure the players’ subjective responses. Linear mixed models were used to examine the main effects of time (matched pairs of games) and the interaction between match (match 1 vs 2) and week (week 1–6) for IL. For wellness, main effects for time (mid-week, post-match 1, and post-match 2) and the interaction between day (mid-week, post-match 1, and post-match 2) and week (week 1–5) were examined. More time was spent in HR zone 1 in match 2 versus 1 (mean difference (MD) = 4.2 ± 3.0 minutes). Total wellness, fatigue, and soreness were all worse post-match 2 compared to mid-week (MD = 1.8 ± 1.4 AU, MD = 0.4 ± 0.6 AU, and MD = 0.8 ± 0.4 AU, respectively). Our results indicate that evaluation of specific wellness items may help practitioners determine the source of decreased wellness and adjust the weekly training load or recovery strategies based off the results of the changes in IL.
The book demonstrates the best and most conservative ways to decipher and critique research reports particularly for social science researchers. In addition, new editions of the book are always better organized, effectively structured and meticulously updated in line with the developments in the field of research statistics. Even the most trivial issues are revisited and updated in new editions. For instance, purchaser of the previous editions might check the interpretation of skewness and kurtosis indices in the third edition (p. 34) and in the fifth edition (p.29) to see how the author revisits every single detail. Theory and practice always go hand in hand in all editions of the book. Re-reading previous editions (e.g. third edition) before reading the fifth edition gives the impression that the author never stops ameliorating his instructional text writing methods. In brief, “Reading Statistics and Research” is among the best sources showing research consumers how to understand and critically assess the statistical information and research results contained in technical research reports. In this respect, the review written by Mirko Savić in Panoeconomicus (2008, 2, pp. 249-252) will help the readers to get a more detailed overview of each chapters. I cordially urge the beginning researchers to pick a highlighter to conduct a detailed reading with the book. A thorough reading of the source will make the researchers quite selective in appreciating the harmony between the data analysis, results and discussion sections of typical journal articles. If interested, beginning researchers might begin with this book to grasp the basics of research statistics, and prop up their critical research reading skills with some statistics package applications through the help of Dr. Andy Field’s book, Discovering Statistics using SPSS (second edition) published by Sage in 2005.
This study examined the effects of ingesting a glucose-polymer (GP) solution on the motor skill proficiencies of association football (soccer) players from two teams playing during two matches in a cool environment. Fifteen minutes before each match and at halftime, players from both teams ingested 5 ml/kg of either placebo or a 6.9% GP solution. GP ingestion did not improve tackling, heading, dribbling, or shooting ability. On the contrary, the mean of successful tackles was lower with GP ingestion than with placebo. The success rate for heading, dribbling, and shooting also tended to be lower in the GP than in the placebo condition. In contrast, success in passing and ball control was similar in the two conditions. Improvements in passing and ball control may have been related to a decrease in the intensity of play in the second half of the game. These data indicate that there are no measurable benefits of GP ingestion for the motor skill proficiencies of soccer players during games played in a cool environment.
The aim of this study was to assess physical fitness, match performance and development of fatigue during competitive matches at two high standards of professional soccer. Computerized time-motion analyses were performed 2-7 times during the competitive season on 18 top-class and 24 moderate professional soccer players. In addition, the players performed the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test. The top-class players performed 28 and 58% more (P < 0.05) high-intensity running and sprinting, respectively, than the moderate players (2.43 +/- 0.14 vs 1.90 +/- 0.12 km and 0.65 +/- 0.06 vs 0.41 +/- 0.03 km, respectively). The top-class players were better (11%; P < 0.05) on the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test than the moderate players (2.26 +/- 0.08 vs 2.04 +/- 0.06 km, respectively). The amount of high-intensity running, independent of competitive standard and playing position, was lower (35-45%; P < 0.05) in the last than in the first 15 min of the game. After the 5-min period during which the amount of high-intensity running peaked, performance was reduced (P < 0.05) by 12% in the following 5 min compared with the game average. Substitute players (n = 13) covered 25% more (P < 0.05) ground during the final 15 min of high-intensity running than the other players. The coefficient of variation in high-intensity running was 9.2% between successive matches, whereas it was 24.8% between different stages of the season. Total distance covered and the distance covered in high-intensity running were higher (P < 0.05) for midfield players, full-backs and attackers than for defenders. Attackers and full-backs covered a greater (P < 0.05) distance in sprinting than midfield players and defenders. The midfield players and full-backs covered a greater (P < 0.05) distance than attackers and defenders in the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test (2.23 +/- 0.10 and 2.21 +/- 0.04 vs 1.99 +/- 0.11 and 1.91 +/- 0.12 km, respectively). The results show that: (1) top-class soccer players performed more high-intensity running during a game and were better at the Yo-Yo test than moderate professional players; (2) fatigue occurred towards the end of matches as well as temporarily during the game, independently of competitive standard and of team position; (3) defenders covered a shorter distance in high-intensity running than players in other playing positions; (4) defenders and attackers had a poorer Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test performance than midfielders and full-backs; and (5) large seasonal changes were observed in physical performance during matches.
This review describes when fatigue may develop during soccer games and the potential physiological mechanisms that cause fatigue in soccer. According to time-motion analyses and performance measures during match-play, fatigue or reduced performance seems to occur at three different stages in the game: (1) after short-term intense periods in both halves; (2) in the initial phase of the second half; and (3) towards the end of the game. Temporary fatigue after periods of intense exercise in the game does not appear to be linked directly to muscle glycogen concentration, lactate accumulation, acidity or the breakdown of creatine phosphate. Instead, it may be related to disturbances in muscle ion homeostasis and an impaired excitation of the sarcolemma. Soccer players' ability to perform maximally is inhibited in the initial phase of the second half, which may be due to lower muscle temperatures compared with the end of the first half. Thus, when players perform low-intensity activities in the interval between the two halves, both muscle temperature and performance are preserved. Several studies have shown that fatigue sets in towards the end of a game, which may be caused by low glycogen concentrations in a considerable number of individual muscle fibres. In a hot and humid environment, dehydration and a reduced cerebral function may also contribute to the deterioration in performance. In conclusion, fatigue or impaired performance in soccer occurs during various phases in a game, and different physiological mechanisms appear to operate in different periods of a game.
In soccer, the players perform intermittent work. Despite the players performing low-intensity activities for more than 70% of the game, heart rate and body temperature measurements suggest that the average oxygen uptake for elite soccer players is around 70% of maximum (VO(2max). This may be partly explained by the 150 - 250 brief intense actions a top-class player performs during a game, which also indicates that the rates of creatine phosphate (CP) utilization and glycolysis are frequently high during a game. Muscle glycogen is probably the most important substrate for energy production, and fatigue towards the end of a game may be related to depletion of glycogen in some muscle fibres. Blood free-fatty acids (FFAs) increase progressively during a game, partly compensating for the progressive lowering of muscle glycogen. Fatigue also occurs temporarily during matches, but it is still unclear what causes the reduced ability to perform maximally. There are major individual differences in the physical demands of players during a game related to physical capacity and tactical role in the team. These differences should be taken into account when planning the training and nutritional strategies of top-class players, who require a significant energy intake during a week.
The aim of this study was to examine the construct validity of selected field tests as indicators of match-related physical performance. During the competitive season, eighteen professional soccer players (age 26.2 +/- 4.5 yrs, mass 80.8 +/- 7.8 kg, and height 181.9 +/- 3.7 cm) completed an incremental running field test to exhaustion, a vertical-jump and a repeated-sprint ability (RSA) test. Match physical performance was quantified during official matches using a video-computerized, semi-automatic, match analysis image recognition system, (ProZone, Leeds, UK). The selected measures of match physical performance were: total distance covered (TD), high intensity running (HIR: > 14.4 km . h (-1)), very high intensity running (VHIR:> 19.8 km . h (-1)), sprinting (> 25.2 km . h (-1)) and top running speed. Significant correlations were found between peak speed reached during the incremental field test and TD (r = 0.58, R (2) = 0.34; p < 0.05), HIR (r = 0.65, R (2) = 0.42; p < 0.01) and VHIR (r = 0.64, R (2) = 0.41; p < 0.01). Significant correlations were also found between RSA mean time and VHIR (r = - 0.60, R (2) = 0.36; p < 0.01) and sprinting distance (r = - 0.65, R (2) = 0.42; p < 0.01). Significant differences were found between the best and worst group as defined by the median split technique for peak speed (TD = 12 011 +/- 747 m vs. 10 712 +/- 669, HIR = 3192 +/- 482 m vs. 2314 +/- 347 m, and VHIR = 1014 +/- 120 vs. 779 +/- 122 m, respectively; p < 0.05) and RSA mean time (VHIR = 974 +/- 162 m vs. 819 +/- 144 m, and sprinting = 235 +/- 56 vs. 164 +/- 58 m, respectively; p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study gives empirical support to the construct validity of RSA and incremental running tests as measures of match-related physical performance in top-level professional soccer players.
This study examined the influence of the opposing team, seasonal variations and the influence of first half activity on match performance in top-level soccer players. Physical performance measures were collected using the ProZone match analysis system from 20 professional soccer players from the same team and their opponents (n = 188) during a season. Match activities (standing, walking, jogging, running, high-speed running and sprinting), distances (total distance [TD], high-intensity running [HIR] and very high-intensity running [VHIR]) and other measures including involvement with the ball and peak running speed were collected. The influence of opponent team, the level of opposition, first half physical activities on second half activities, and playing position were analysed. The main finding was that TD (r = 0.62, p < 0.05), HIR (r = 0.51, p < 0.05), and VHIR (r = 0.65, p < 0.05) of the reference team was influenced by the activity profile of the opponent teams. The TD and HIR was higher against Best opponent teams compared to Worst opponent teams (p < 0.05), and the TD, HIR and VHIR travelled in the first half significantly influenced the distances covered in the second half. TD, HIR and VHIR were greater at the end of the season. These results may be used to interpret meaningful changes in match performance in top level soccer.
The physiological demands of soccer can be gauged by examining the exercise intensities at which different match activities are performed. The activities can be classified with respect to type, intensity (quality), duration (distance) and frequency of events. Work-rate profiles during match play and factors influencing work rate, such as playing position, competitive level, style of play, fatigue and environmental influences are considered. Such information has implications for the design of training programmes, fitness evaluations, the daily energy intake of players and the prevention of injuries.
In soccer, the players perform intermittent work. Despite the players performing low-intensity activities for more than 70% of the game, heart rate and body temperature measurements suggest that the average oxygen uptake for elite soccer players is around 70% of maximum (VO2max). This may be partly explained by the 150-250 brief intense actions a top-class player performs during a game, which also indicates that the rates of creatine phosphate (CP) utilization and glycolysis are frequently high during a game. Muscle glycogen is probably the most important substrate for energy production, and fatigue towards the end of a game may be related to depletion of glycogen in some muscle fibres. Blood free-fatty acids (FFAs) increase progressively during a game, partly compensating for the progressive lowering of muscle glycogen. Fatigue also occurs temporarily during matches, but it is still unclear what causes the reduced ability to perform maximally. There are major individual differences in the physical demands of players during a game related to physical capacity and tactical role in the team. These differences should be taken into account when planning the training and nutritional strategies of top-class players, who require a significant energy intake during a week. © 2007 Ron Maughan for editorial material and selection. Individual chapters the contributors. All rights reserved.
The present thesis is based on 14 original articles published in international journals (I-XIV, see page 8) and a summarizing review. The thesis deals with the physiological demands of soccer, with a particular focus on the physiological response to repeated intense exercise. In chapter I the specific issues are presented and in chapter II the physiological demands in soccer are discussed based on the results of the studies performed. Chapter III contains a short survey of the experiments performed to study specifically muscle metabolism and muscle fatigue with repeated intense muscle contractions. With reference to the topics covered in chapters II and III, fatigue during a soccer match is discussed in chapter IV, and chapter V deals with applications for physical training in soccer. Measurements have been performed during soccer matches and training, as well as in experiments simulating the activities of a soccer match. The information obtained has been compared to results from studies of the physical capacity of top-class soccer players and from laboratory experiments aimed at investigating metabolism and fatigue in intermittent exercise. Studies with whole-body and single muscle group exercises have been performed, the latter mainly with the application of a knee-extension model. In the studies on isolated muscle groups, biopsies taken from exercising muscles as well as arterial and femoral venous blood samples have allowed for detailed analysis of muscle ionic transportation and metabolism. In addition, the magnetic resonance technique has been used for the continuous determination of changes in muscle metabolites and pH during intermittent exercise. Analysis of activities during soccer matches showed that a top-class soccer player covers an average distance of approximately 11 km during a match. The distance differs highly between players and is partly related to the position in a team. Midfield players run more at low speed than defenders and forwards, whereas no difference appears to exist between groups when comparing the distance covered at high speed. The distance covered at high speed is the same in the beginning as in the end of a match. The total distance covered by a player during a soccer match is only to a limited extent a measure of the physiological demands on the player during the match. In addition to running, a player is engaged in many other energy demanding activities, i.e. tackling, jumping, accelerating and turning. A more precise evaluation of the total energy demand during a soccer match may be achieved by performing physiological measurements in connection with soccer matches (I). Based on measurements of variables such as heart rate and body temperature, the relative energy demand during a soccer match is estimated to be approximately 70% of maximal oxygen uptake. The aerobic energy production accounts for more than 90% of the total energy consumption. Although the anaerobic energy production is of minor quantitative importance, it does play an essential role during a soccer match. During an intense exercise period of a game both creatine phosphate (CP) and to a lesser extent the stored adenosine triphosphate (ATP) are utilized. Both variables are partly restored during a subsequent rest period. In blood samples taken after top-class soccer matches the lactate concentration averages 3-8 mmol·l-1 (I), and individual determinations often exceed 10 mmol·l-1 during match-play. The latter values indicate that lactate production can be very high during periods of a match. Glycogen in the working muscle seems to be the most important substrate for the energy production during a soccer match. However, muscle triglycerides, blood free fatty acids and glucose are also used as substrates for the oxidative metabolism of the muscles.
The major purpose of the present study was to examine whether there exists a relationship between preseasonal physiological tests and performance results in the soccer league. Further, it investigated maximal oxygen uptake and maximal strength in proportion to body mass for soccer players. A secondary aim was to establish some normative data of Norwegian elite soccer players.
Two teams from the Norwegian elite soccer league participated in the study.
The present study supports previous investigations indicating a positive relationship between maximal aerobic capacity, physical strength, and performance results in the elite soccer league. It is concluded that for soccer players, maximal oxygen uptake should be expressed in relation to body mass raised to the power of 0.75 and maximal strength in relation to body mass raised to the power of 0.67, when the aim is to evaluate maximal aerobic capacity when running and strength capacity among players with different body mass. Midfield players had significantly higher maximal oxygen uptake compared with defense players using the traditional expression, mL x kg(-1) x min(-1), while no significant differences were found expressing maximal oxygen uptake either absolutely (L x min[-1]) or in relation to body mass raised to the power of 0.75 (mL x kg[-0.75] x min[-1]) among players grouped by position. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.61, P < 0.01) between squat IRM and vertical jump height. Vertical jump heights for defense and forward players were significantly higher compared with midfield players. Mean results from the laboratory test were 63.7 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1) or 188.6 mL x kg[-0.75] x min(-1) for maximal oxygen uptake, 150 kg or 8.0 kg x mb(-0.67) for 90 degrees squats, 79.9 kg or 4.4 kg x mb(-0.67) for bench press. Mean values of vertical jump height were 54.9 cm.
In order to study the movement pattern of soccer players, 14 top-level players were filmed during several competitive matches. In addition, the relationship between the observed activity during match play and blood lactate values was examined. The mean distance covered during competitive matches was 10.80 km, and the average individual difference between matches was 0.92 km, with no difference in regard to high intensity activities. Midfielders covered a 10% longer (p less than 0.05) distance (11.4 km) than defenders and forwards, with no difference concerning high intensity running. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.61, p less than 0.05) between the amount of high intensity running during the match and lactate concentration in the blood. The results suggest that high intensity running can be used for making comparisons in soccer and that the interpretation of blood lactate in soccer is limited to giving an indication of the type of activity that has been carried out a few minutes before sampling.
Soccer is characterised as a high intensity, intermittent non-continuous exercise. Players cover approximately 10km of ground per game, of which 8 to 18% is at the highest individual speed. In higher levels of competition there is a greater number of tackles and headings plus a greater percentage of the game is performed at maximum speed. The average aerobic energy yield during a national level game is around 80% of the individual maximum. Blood lactate concentration during a game averages 7 to 8 mmol/L. Because of a high energy yield most players have empty muscle glycogen stores at the end of the game, were hypohydrated and also have an increased body temperature.
Soccer players of national and international standard have a maximal aerobic power of around 60 to 65 ml/kg/min, an above average anaerobic alactacid power, and a greater buffer capacity and muscle strength compared with untrained controls, yet seem to be less flexible.
The present thesis is based on 14 original articles published in international journals (I-XIV, see page 8) and a summarizing review. The thesis deals with the physiological demands of soccer, with a particular focus on the physiological response to repeated intense exercise. In chapter I the specific issues are presented and in chapter II the physiological demands in soccer are discussed based on the results of the studies performed. Chapter III contains a short survey of the experiments performed to study specifically muscle metabolism and muscle fatigue with repeated intense muscle contractions. With reference to the topics covered in chapters II and III, fatigue during a soccer match is discussed in chapter IV, and chapter V deals with applications for physical training in soccer. Measurements have been performed during soccer matches and training, as well as in experiments simulating the activities of a soccer match. The information obtained has been compared to results from studies of the physical capacity of top-class soccer players and from laboratory experiments aimed at investigating metabolism and fatigue in intermittent exercise. Studies with whole-body and single muscle group exercises have been performed, the latter mainly with the application of a knee-extension model. In the studies on isolated muscle groups, biopsies taken from exercising muscles as well as arterial and femoral venous blood samples have allowed for detailed analysis of muscle ionic transportation and metabolism. In addition, the magnetic resonance technique has been used for the continuous determination of changes in muscle metabolites and pH during intermittent exercise. Analysis of activities during soccer matches showed that a top-class soccer player covers an average distance of approximately 11 km during a match. The distance differs highly between players and is partly related to the position in a team. Midfield players run more at low speed than defenders and forwards, whereas no difference appears to exist between groups when comparing the distance covered at high speed. The distance covered at high speed is the same in the beginning as in the end of a match. The total distance covered by a player during a soccer match is only to a limited extent a measure of the physiological demands on the player during the match. In addition to running, a player is engaged in many other energy demanding activities, i.e. tackling, jumping, accelerating and turning. A more precise evaluation of the total energy demand during a soccer match may be achieved by performing physiological measurements in connection with soccer matches (I).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
In elite outfield players, the average work rate during a soccer match, as estimated from variables such as heart rate, is approximately 70% of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max). This corresponds to an energy production of approximately 5700 kJ (1360 kcal) for a person weighing 75 kg with a VO2 max of 60 ml kg-1 min-1. Aerobic energy production appears to account for more than 90% of total energy consumption. Nevertheless, anaerobic energy production plays an essential role during soccer matches. During intensive exercise periods of a game, creatine phosphate, and to a lesser extent the stored adenosine triphosphate, are utilized. Both compounds are partly restored during a subsequent prolonged rest period. In blood samples taken after top-class soccer matches, the lactate concentration averages 3-9 mM, and individual values frequently exceed 10 mM during match-play. Furthermore, the adenosine diphosphate degradation products--ammonia/ammonium, hypoxanthine and uric acid--are elevated in the blood during soccer matches. Thus, the anaerobic energy systems are heavily taxes during periods of match-play. Glycogen in the working muscle seems to be the most important substrate for energy production during soccer matches. However, muscle triglycerides, blood free fatty acids and glucose are also used as substrates for oxidative metabolism in the muscles.
Soccer entails intermittent exercise with bouts of short, intense activity punctuating longer periods of low-level, moderate-intensity exercise. High levels of blood lactate may sometimes be observed during a match but the active recovery periods at submaximal exercise levels allow for its removal on a continual basis. While anaerobic efforts are evident in activity with the ball and shadowing fast-moving opponents, the largest strain is placed on aerobic metabolism. On average, competitive soccer corresponds to an energy expenditure of about 75% maximal aerobic power. The energy expenditure varies with playing position, being highest among midfield players. Muscle glycogen levels can be reduced towards the end of a game, the level of reduction being reflected in a decrease in work rate. Blood glucose levels are generally well-maintained, although body temperature may rise by 2 degrees C even in temperate conditions. The distance covered by players tends to under-reflect the energy expended. Unorthodox modes of motion-running backwards and sideways, accelerating, decelerating and changing direction-accentuate the metabolic loading. These are compounded by the extra requirements for energy associated with dribbling the ball and contesting possession. The overall energy expended is extreme when players are required to play extra-time in tournaments. Training, nutritional and tactical strategies may be used to reduce the effects of fatigue that may occur late in the game.
The aim of this study was to examine the effect of intermittent high-intensity shuttle running and fluid ingestion on the performance of a soccer skill. Nine semi-professional soccer players volunteered to participate in the study. Their mean (+/- s(x)) age, body mass and maximal oxygen uptake were 20.2+/-0.4 years, 73.2+/-1.8 kg and 59.1+/-1.3 ml x kg(-1) min(-1) respectively. The players were allocated to two randomly assigned trials: ingesting or abstaining from fluid intake during a 90 min intermittent exercise protocol (Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test: LIST). This test was designed to simulate the minimum physical demands faced by soccer players during a game. Before and immediately after performance of the test, the players completed a soccer skill test and a mental concentration test. Performance of the soccer skill test after the 'no-fluid' trial deteriorated by 5% (P<0.05), but was maintained during the fluid trial. Mean heart rate, perceived exertion, serum aldosterone, osmolality, sodium and cortisol responses during the test were higher (P<0.05) in the 'no-fluid' trial than in the fluid trial. The results of this study suggest that soccer players should consume fluid throughout a game to help prevent a deterioration in skill performance.
Reliability refers to the reproducibility of values of a test, assay or other measurement in repeated trials on the same individuals. Better reliability implies better precision of single measurements and better tracking of changes in measurements in research or practical settings. The main measures of reliability are within-subject random variation, systematic change in the mean, and retest correlation. A simple, adaptable form of within-subject variation is the typical (standard) error of measurement: the standard deviation of an individual's repeated measurements. For many measurements in sports medicine and science, the typical error is best expressed as a coefficient of variation (percentage of the mean). A biased, more limited form of within-subject variation is the limits of agreement: the 95% likely range of change of an individual's measurements between 2 trials. Systematic changes in the mean of a measure between consecutive trials represent such effects as learning, motivation or fatigue; these changes need to be eliminated from estimates of within-subject variation. Retest correlation is difficult to interpret, mainly because its value is sensitive to the heterogeneity of the sample of participants. Uses of reliability include decision-making when monitoring individuals, comparison of tests or equipment, estimation of sample size in experiments and estimation of the magnitude of individual differences in the response to a treatment. Reasonable precision for estimates of reliability requires approximately 50 study participants and at least 3 trials. Studies aimed at assessing variation in reliability between tests or equipment require complex designs and analyses that researchers seldom perform correctly. A wider understanding of reliability and adoption of the typical error as the standard measure of reliability would improve the assessment of tests and equipment in our disciplines.
The aim of the current investigation was to determine the movement profiles of elite South American soccer players during international competition and examine the relationship between anthropometric profile and work-rate variables.
Seventeen full-time professional soccer players were filmed while competing for their countries. Anthropometric profiles were obtained for eleven of these players. Six full-time professional players from the English Premier League were also filmed for comparative purposes.
The South American international players covered significantly less (p<0.05) total distance during match-play than English Premier League players (International, 8638+/-1158 m; English Premier League, 10104+/-703 m). The total distance covered during the second half of the game was significantly reduced (p<0.05) compared to the first half distance for both groups of players (mean+/-SD first half 4605+/-625 m; mean+/-SD second half 4415+/-634 m). The data for both groups of players were combined to evaluate positional differences in the workrate profile. Midfield players covered a significantly greater (p<0.05) distance than forward players (midfield, 9826+/-1031 m; forwards, 7736+/-929 m) and defenders covered a greater (p<0.05) distance jogging backwards than forward players (defenders, 276+/-155 m; forwards, 68+/-25 m). Forwards sprinted a greater distance (p<0.05) than defensive players (defenders, 231+/-142 m; forwards, 557+/-142 m). Mean somatotype was a balanced mesomorph (2-5 1/2-2). Body mass and muscle mass was related to the total distance covered (r=0.43, r=0.53, p<0.05).
Based on these data, it seems that an individual's work-rate profile is dependent upon the type of competition and the playing position. Relationships between anthropometric profile and work-rate are complex due to the interaction between the variables that determine work-rate.
In this review, we attempt to integrate the main research findings concerned with talent identification and development in soccer. Research approaches in anthropometry, physiology, psychology and sociology are considered and, where possible, integrated. Although some progress has been made in identifying correlates of playing success, it appears that no unique characteristics can be isolated with confidence. Both biological and behavioural scientists have indicated a strong genetic component in performance of sports such as soccer; nevertheless, the influence of systematic training and development programmes should not be underestimated. We conclude that the sport and exercise sciences have an important support role in the processes of identifying, monitoring and nurturing talented soccer players towards realizing their potential.
The aim of the present study was to study the effects of aerobic training on performance during soccer match and soccer specific tests.
Nineteen male elite junior soccer players, age 18.1 +/- 0.8 yr, randomly assigned to the training group (N = 9) and the control group (N = 10) participated in the study. The specific aerobic training consisted of interval training, four times 4 min at 90-95% of maximal heart rate, with a 3-min jog in between, twice per week for 8 wk. Players were monitored by video during two matches, one before and one after training.
In the training group: a) maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) increased from 58.1 +/- 4.5 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1) to 64.3 +/- 3.9 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1) (P < 0.01); b) lactate threshold improved from 47.8 +/- 5.3 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1) to 55.4 +/- 4.1 mL x kg(-1) x min(-1) (P < 0.01); c) running economy was also improved by 6.7% (P < 0.05); d) distance covered during a match increased by 20% in the training group (P < 0.01); e) number of sprints increased by 100% (P < 0.01); f) number of involvements with the ball increased by 24% (P < 0.05); g) the average work intensity during a soccer match, measured as percent of maximal heart rate, was enhanced from 82.7 +/- 3.4% to 85.6 +/- 3.1% (P < 0.05); and h) no changes were found in maximal vertical jumping height, strength, speed, kicking velocity, kicking precision, or quality of passes after the training period. The control group showed no changes in any of the tested parameters.
Enhanced aerobic endurance in soccer players improved soccer performance by increasing the distance covered, enhancing work intensity, and increasing the number of sprints and involvements with the ball during a match.
To examine the physiological response and reproducibility of the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test and its application to elite soccer.
Heart rate was measured, and metabolites were determined in blood and muscle biopsies obtained before, during, and after the Yo-Yo test in 17 males. Physiological measurements were also performed during a Yo-Yo retest and an exhaustive incremental treadmill test (ITT). Additionally, 37 male elite soccer players performed two to four seasonal tests, and the results were related to physical performance in matches.
The test-retest CV for the Yo-Yo test was 4.9%. Peak heart rate was similar in ITT and Yo-Yo test (189 +/- 2 vs 187 +/- 2 bpm), whereas peak blood lactate was higher (P < 0.05) in the Yo-Yo test. During the Yo-Yo test, muscle lactate increased eightfold (P < 0.05) and muscle creatine phosphate (CP) and glycogen decreased (P < 0.05) by 51% and 23%, respectively. No significant differences were observed in muscle CP, lactate, pH, or glycogen between 90 and 100% of exhaustion time. During the precompetition period, elite soccer players improved (P < 0.05) Yo-Yo test performance and maximum oxygen uptake ([OV0312]O(2max)) by 25 +/- 6 and 7 +/- 1%, respectively. High-intensity running covered by the players during games was correlated to Yo-Yo test performance (r = 0.71, P < 0.05) but not to [OV0312]O(2max) and ITT performance.
The test had a high reproducibility and sensitivity, allowing for detailed analysis of the physical capacity of athletes in intermittent sports. Specifically, the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test was a valid measure of fitness performance in soccer. During the test, the aerobic loading approached maximal values, and the anaerobic energy system was highly taxed. Additionally, the study suggests that fatigue during intense intermittent short-term exercise was unrelated to muscle CP, lactate, pH, and glycogen.
Parra et al. (Acta Physiol. Scand 169: 157-165, 2000) showed that 2 wk of daily sprint interval training (SIT) increased citrate synthase (CS) maximal activity but did not change "anaerobic" work capacity, possibly because of chronic fatigue induced by daily training. The effect of fewer SIT sessions on muscle oxidative potential is unknown, and aside from changes in peak oxygen uptake (Vo(2 peak)), no study has examined the effect of SIT on "aerobic" exercise capacity. We tested the hypothesis that six sessions of SIT, performed over 2 wk with 1-2 days rest between sessions to promote recovery, would increase CS maximal activity and endurance capacity during cycling at approximately 80% Vo(2 peak). Eight recreationally active subjects [age = 22 +/- 1 yr; Vo(2 peak) = 45 +/- 3 ml.kg(-1).min(-1) (mean +/- SE)] were studied before and 3 days after SIT. Each training session consisted of four to seven "all-out" 30-s Wingate tests with 4 min of recovery. After SIT, CS maximal activity increased by 38% (5.5 +/- 1.0 vs. 4.0 +/- 0.7 mmol.kg protein(-1).h(-1)) and resting muscle glycogen content increased by 26% (614 +/- 39 vs. 489 +/- 57 mmol/kg dry wt) (both P < 0.05). Most strikingly, cycle endurance capacity increased by 100% after SIT (51 +/- 11 vs. 26 +/- 5 min; P < 0.05), despite no change in Vo(2 peak). The coefficient of variation for the cycle test was 12.0%, and a control group (n = 8) showed no change in performance when tested approximately 2 wk apart without SIT. We conclude that short sprint interval training (approximately 15 min of intense exercise over 2 wk) increased muscle oxidative potential and doubled endurance capacity during intense aerobic cycling in recreationally active individuals.
To examine the activity profile and physical loading of elite female soccer players during match play and to study the relationship between training status and physical match performance.
Time-motion analysis and HR recordings were performed on 14 elite female soccer players during competitive matches. In addition, the players carried out a laboratory treadmill test and the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test.
The total distance covered during a game was 10.3 km (range: 9.7-11.3) with high-intensity running (HIR) accounting for 1.31 km (0.71-1.70). HIR was performed 125 times (72-159) for 2.3 s (2.0-2.4) on average. The average and peak HR in a game were 167 beats per minute (bpm) (152-186) and 186 (171-205), respectively, corresponding to 87% (81-93) and 97% (96-100) of HR(max). Maximal pulmonary oxygen uptake (VO2max) was 49.4 mL.min(-1).kg(-1) (43.4-56.8), and incremental treadmill test (ITT) performance was 4.49 min (3.38-5.17). The Yo-Yo test performance was 1379 m (600-1960). The total distance covered during match play did not correlate with VO2max or ITT performance but correlated with the Yo-Yo test result (r = 0.56, P < 0.05). Significant positive correlations were observed between HIR and VO2max (r = 0.81, P < 0.05), ITT (r = 0.82, P < 0.05), and Yo-Yo test performance (r = 0.76, P < 0.05). No relationship was observed between HR(max) during match play and any of the performance measures.
The present study demonstrated that 1) HIR during games varies markedly between elite female soccer players, 2) all players have high HR throughout a competitive game with periods of near-maximal values, 3) the distance covered by HIR during match play is closely related to the physical capacity, and 4) the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test can be used as an indicator of the physical match performance of elite female players.
The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of match standard and referee experience on the objective and subjective workload of referees during English Premier League and Football League soccer matches. We also examined the relationship between heart rate (HR) and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) for assessing match intensity in soccer referees. Heart rate responses were recorded using short-range telemetry and RPE scores were collected using a 10-point scale. Analysis revealed a significant relationship between mean match HR and match RPE scores (r=0.485, p<0.05, n=18). There were significant differences in match HR (Premier League 83.6+/-2.6% maximal HR (HRmax) versus Football League 81.5+/-2.2%HRmax, p<0.05) and match RPE scores (Premier League 7.8+/-0.8 versus Football League 6.9+/-0.8, p<0.05) between standards of competition. Referee experience had no effect on match HR and RPE responses to Premier League and Football League matches. The results of the present study demonstrate the validity of using HR and RPE as a measure of global match intensity in soccer referees. Referee experience had no effect on the referees' objective and subjective match workload assessments, whereas match intensity was correlated to competition standard. These findings have implications for fitness preparation and evaluation in soccer referees. When progressing to a higher level of competition, referees should ensure that appropriate levels of fitness are developed in order to enable them to cope with an increase in physical match demands.
To examine muscle and blood metabolites during soccer match play and relate it to possible changes in sprint performance.
Thirty-one Danish fourth division players took part in three friendly games. Blood samples were collected frequently during the game, and muscle biopsies were taken before and after the game as well as immediately after an intense period in each half. The players performed five 30-m sprints interspersed by 25-s recovery periods before the game and immediately after each half (N=11) or after an intense exercise period in each half (N=20).
Muscle lactate was 15.9+/-1.9 and 16.9+/-2.3 mmol.kg d.w. during the first and second halves, respectively, with blood lactate being 6.0+/-0.4 and 5.0+/-0.4 mM, respectively. Muscle lactate was not correlated with blood lactate (r=0.06-0.25, P>0.05). Muscle glycogen decreased (P<0.05) from 449+/-23 to 255+/-22 mmol.kg d.w. during the game, with 47+/-7% of the muscle fibers being completely or almost empty of glycogen after the game. Blood glucose remained elevated during the game, whereas plasma FFA increased (P<0.05) from 0.45+/-0.05 to 1.37+/-0.23 mM. Mean sprint time was unaltered after the first half, but longer (P<0.05) after the game (2.8+/-0.7%) as well as after intense periods in the first (1.6+/-0.6%) and second halves (3.6+/-0.5%). The decline in sprint performance during the game was not correlated with muscle lactate, muscle pH, or total glycogen content.
Sprint performance is reduced both temporarily during a game and at the end of a soccer game. The latter finding may be explained by low glycogen levels in individual muscle fibers. Blood lactate is a poor indicator of muscle lactate during soccer match play.
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