Contextualised high-intensity running profiles of elite football players with reference to general and specialised tactical roles

Comparative Analysis of U17, U20, and Senior Football Team Performances in the FIFA World Cup: From Youth to Senior Level

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate differences in match physical and technical/tactical performance of teams across different competitive levels in international soccer: FIFA Men's World Cup Qatar 2022 (MWC), FIFA U20 World Cup Argentina 2023 (U20WC), and FIFA U17 World Cup Indonesia 2023 (U17WC).

METHODS

From a total of 168 games, 138 games were analyzed (N = 276 game observations) using an optical tracking system.

RESULTS

On average, the U17WC teams exhibited reduced total running (3% less), high-intensity running (14%-16% less), and sprinting (18%-26% less) distance than the MWC and U20WC teams (P ≤ .0023; effect size [ES]: 0.8-1.5). The MWC teams displayed 4% to 5% higher accuracy in passing and executing line breaks (P ≤ .0188; ES: 0.6-0.7), along with increased offers to receive the ball (53%-118% more) and movements to receive the ball (44%-101% more), and received the ball (61%-137%) more often than the U20WC and U17WC teams (P < .001; ES: 1.1-2.1). Moreover, notable decreases in defensive pressure (-18% to -32%) and forced turnovers (-26% to -32%) were observed in the U17WC than other competitions (P ≤ .0001; ES: 0.8-2.2). Greater variability was observed among the U17WC teams in several metrics, including high-intensity/sprinting distances, attempts at goal, and receptions in the final third.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrate that as the competitive level increases, so do the physical demands, advanced technical skills, and tactical fluidity/adaptability. However, caution should be exercised when interpreting match performance of younger age groups, as higher variability was evident in both physical and technical/tactical performance in matches.

Different sizes of position games and official matches in youth professional soccer player

The objectives of this study were to compare the external load of position games and matches in soccer players and to assess the effect of different pitch sizes on position games in relation to competition. Twenty-five players (age: 21.9 ± 1.9 years; height: 177.9 ± 5.2 cm; weight: 75.5 ± 4.8 kg) were evaluated during 37 official matches and 18 position games classified according to their pitch sizes: Small, Medium and Large (50.8 ± 6.6 m2, 80.5 ± 4.6 m2 and 115.9 ± 25.2 m2 relative area per player, respectively). Using a GPS system, total distance (DC), DC > 21 km · h-1, peak speed, and maximal accelerations and decelerations lower and higher than 3 m · s-2 (Acc<3; Acc>3; Dec<3 and Dec>3, respectively) were recorded. Mixed model analyses were used to compare the effects of the game condition and of space dimensions on the dependent parameters. During the position games, lower values of DC, DC > 21 km · h-1, peak speed, Acc<3, Dec<3, maximal accelerations and maximal decelerations were reported than in matches. Position games showed higher values than matches for the Acc>3 and Dec>3. All analysed variables reached statistical significance (all p < 0.001). Small, Medium and Large position games significantly achieved lower DC > 21 km · h-1, peak speed, Acc<3, Dec<3, maximal accelerations and maximal decelerations, but significantly higher Acc>3 and Dec>3 (all p < 0.05) than matches. The data showed that position games of 9 vs. 9 + 2 with a relative area per player ≤ 115.9 m2 present a different external load than matches.

The principles of tactical formation identification in association football (soccer) - a survey

This paper reviews the principles employed to identify team tactical formations in association football, covering over two decades of research based on event and tracking data. It first defines formations and discusses their history and importance. It then introduces the preprocessing and team/position-level principles. Preprocessing includes match segments and normalized locations followed by data representation using various options, such as average locations, hand-engineered features, and graphs for the team-level and relative locations, distributions, and images for the position-level approaches. Either of them is later followed by applying templates or clustering. Among the limitations for future research to address is the reliance on spatial rather than temporal aggregation, which bases formation identification on newly introduced coordinates that may not be available in raw tracking data. Assuming a fixed number of outfield players (e.g., 10) fails to address scenarios with fewer players due to red cards or injuries. Additionally, accounting for phases of play is crucial to provide more practical context and reduce noise by excluding irrelevant segments, such as set pieces. The existing formation templates do not support arrangments with more or fewer players in each horizontal line (e.g., 6-3-1). On the other hand, clustering forces new observations to be described with previously learned clusters, preventing the possibility of discovering emerging formations. Lastly, alternative evaluation methods should have been explored more rigorously, in the absence of ground truth labels. Overall, this study identifies assumptions, consequences, and drawbacks associated with formation identification principles to structure the body of knowledge and establish a foundation for the future.

The Influence of Playing Position on Physical, Physiological, and Technical Demands in Adult Male Soccer Matches: A Systematic Scoping Review with Evidence Gap Map

BACKGROUND

There has been an increase in studies examining the demands of soccer relative to each playing position in recent years. Understanding the physical, physiological, and technical demands on soccer players according to their positional role during competitive matches is necessary to understand match requirements and develop position-specific training practices. Thereby, there is a clear need to synthesize the information on the different profiles of each playing position.

OBJECTIVE

This review aimed to organize the literature investigating physical, physiological, and technical demands according to playing positions and provide a framework to identify gaps and suggestions for future studies.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in October 2023 using four electronic databases: Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, PubMed and Scopus. The review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and the PRISMA-ScR extension for Scoping Reviews. The studies were included if the sample comprised adult male soccer players categorized from Tier 3 to Tier 5 (i.e., highly trained/national level, elite/international level, or world class) and compared the physical, physiological, or technical parameters across playing positions.

RESULTS

A total of 178 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The number of teams, players, and matches analyzed per study varied considerably. Although a range of classifications were reported across studies, 59% of studies classified players as central defenders, full-backs, central midfielders, wide midfielders, and forwards. The findings suggests that central and external midfielders, and external defenders cover greater total and high-speed distance than forwards or central defenders. Sprint distance was higher in external midfielders versus all other positions. Defenders and central midfielders perform more passes than external midfielders and forwards. Heart rate was the most commonly reported physiological variable across playing positions. When expressed as a percentage of maximal heart rate, midfielders presented higher mean values than all other playing positions.

CONCLUSION

This scoping review demonstrates that there are differences in the demands on players across playing positions in soccer. Training practices in soccer should be based on the specific requirements of each positional role to ensure players can fulfill their tactical responsibilities during the game.

Contextualised physical metrics: The physical demands vary with phase of play during elite soccer match play

The physical demands of elite soccer match play have traditionally been measured using aggregated whole-match metrics. However, match play is increasingly considered as distinct phases of play, although the influence of phase of play on match physical demands remains largely unknown. This study compared physical intensity, acceleration and deceleration demands, between phases of play and according to playing position. The duration of each match from a major European league (n = 1083) was divided into one of five reciprocal phases (for the in-/out-of-possession team) using event and tracking data: build-up/high-block, progression/mid-block, chance creation/low-block, fast attack/fast defence, or attacking transition/defensive transition. Player tracking data were used to calculate physical intensity as the rate of distance covered (m⋅min-1) in total and within five speed categories, and the proportion of time spent accelerating and decelerating (>2 m s-2) during each phase of play. Rate of distance covered in total differed markedly with phase of play; fast attack 35%-53% greater, and fast defence 33%-50% greater, than other in-/out-of-possession phases respectively, and these effects were amplified for the rate of distance covered at higher speeds (e.g., sprinting ≥4-fold differences between phases). Match phase also affected the proportion of time spent accelerating and decelerating (highest for fast attack and chance creation, respectively), especially when in-possession for forwards and when out-of-possession for defenders (p < 0.001). Phase of play had a large effect on the physical intensity of match play, particularly rates of distance covered at higher speeds, as well as the acceleration and deceleration demands, and in a position specific manner.

The Relationship Between Playing Formations, Team Ranking, and Physical Performance in the Serie A Soccer League

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.

Possession or position games: What is the key in soccer?

The aims of this study were to compare the running performance of possession and position games and to describe the external load of the same position game played on pitches of different dimensions. Using a GPS system (WIMU Pro, RealTrack Systems, Almería, Spain), the running demands of 25 professional soccer players were monitored during 18 possession (without a standardized role position) and 18 positional (with a specific role position) games of 9 vs. 9 + 2 floaters. Each format was developed in small (< 60 m2 per payer), medium (60-90 m2 per player) and large (> 90 m2 per player) sizes. Position games obtained significantly lower distance covered, peak speed and player load values than possession games (all p < 0.05). However, position games obtained significantly higher values of maximal acceleration, maximal deceleration, accelerations higher than 3 m · s-2 and decelerations lower than -3 m · s-2 than possession games (all p < 0.05). Likewise, large position games obtained significantly higher values of distance covered, distance covered > 21 km · h-1, peak speed and player load than small and medium sizes. Large size also showed significantly higher values of maximal acceleration and deceleration than small size, significantly fewer accelerations and decelerations, and fewer accelerations lower than 3 m · s-2 and decelerations higher than -3 m · s-2 compared to medium and small size (all p < 0.05). Practitioners should keep in mind the use of these games and their size to modify the external load of the players during their training.

Analysis of match performance of elite soccer players across confederations during the Men's and Women's World Cup

This study aimed to benchmark and analyze match performance of elite soccer players from various confederations during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 (Men's WC) and FIFA Women's World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 (Women's WC). A total of 128 matches were analyzed using an optical tracking system (n = 1,351 player observations). Players from various national teams were categorized into their respective confederations: Europe (UEFA), South America (CONMEBOL), North/Central America and Caribbean (CONCACAF), Africa (CAF) and Asia and Oceania (AFC/OFC). Generalized Linear Mixed Models and Linear Mixed Models were employed to assess performance differences between confederations. Data revealed that CONMEBOL players in the Men's WC covered less total distance than UEFA players (p = 0.0396; ES = 0.6). However, no differences were found in high-intensity running and sprinting distances across confederations in both tournaments. UEFA players in both competitions typically demonstrated superior technical/tactical performances. In particular, UEFA players in the Women's World Cup made more passes, had 7-16% higher pass completion rates and achieved 10-15% greater line break completion rates compared to those from CAF, CONCACAF and AFC/OFC (p < 0.0001 to p = 0.0199, ES = 0.5-1.3). These findings suggest that UEFA players may possess a tactical/technical edge in international competitions. However, caution should be exercised when interpreting data due to high variations within confederations. This is the first comprehensive study describing match performance between confederations during the Men's and Women's WC, providing valuable insights into the physical and technical/tactical aspects of elite soccer.

Factors influencing sports performance: A multi-dimensional analysis of coaching quality, athlete well-being, training intensity, and nutrition with self-efficacy mediation and cultural values moderation

This study examines the dynamic relationships between cultural values, training intensity, nutrition, self-efficacy, and coaching quality on Chinese athletes' performance. Bandura's social cognitive theory and cultural psychology ideas enlightened the multi-faceted sports performance analysis. A detailed questionnaire was employed to obtain data from 880 athletes from various places and sports backgrounds. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used for empirical analysis. The results show a significant positive association between coaching quality (β = 0.62, p < 0.001), athlete well-being (β = 0.48, p < 0.001), training intensity (β = 0.55, p < 0.001), nutrition (β = 0.42, p < 0.001), self-efficacy (β = 0.57, p < 0.001), and sports performance. Coaching quality appeared as a critical component. Athletes performed better when they felt their instructors were performing better. Diet, training intensity, and health affected athletes' performance, highlighting the necessity for athlete development. Athletes' confidence in their performance is mediated by coaching, well-being, training, nutrition, and performance. These correlations were further impacted by cultural values, highlighting the need to consider cultural context while attempting to enhance athlete performance outcomes. The study concludes that cultural values, self-efficacy, training, nutrition, coaching, and health are crucial to Chinese athletes' success.

Worst Case Scenarios in Soccer Training and Competition: Analysis of Playing Position, Congested Periods, and Substitutes

Aim: To understand mean (WCSmean) and peak (WCSpeak) worst case scenarios within training and game play in male professional soccer. Methods: Thirty-one (n = 31) first team players were monitored across 37 matches and 14 MD-3 sessions. Playing status was distinguished, football drills analyzed, and performance explored in long-period: >6 days, moderate-period: 5-6 days, and congested-period: ≤4 days. Relative total distance (TD), high-speed running distance (HSRD, >19.8 km·h-1), sprint distance (SD, >25.2 km·h-1), accelerations/decelerations (A+D, >3 m·s-2), accelerations (Acc, >3 m·s-2), and decelerations (Dec, >-3 m·s-2) were measured as well as Maximum acceleration (Max Acc; m·s-2) and deceleration (Max Dec; m·s-2). Results: Analysis of variance found differences between matches and training in WCSmean for TD, HSRD, SD, and Max Dec in all positions (p < .001; partial η2 > .275). Fullbacks displayed differences between match and training in Max Acc (moderate ESs; p < .001), while center backs and central midfielders in Max Dec (large ESs; p > .05). Main effects of playing status were discovered for all metrics except Max Dec (p < .001; partial η2 > .124). Analysis showed differences between long- and congested-period for A+D and Dec (large ESs; p ≤ .05). Conclusions: Findings provide more insights into short peak intensity demands of soccer showing that the maximum high velocity action of acceleration and deceleration is not being replicated in training. Nonstarters lack maximum intensity exposure in matches (WCSpeak) increasing the gap between training and competition even higher during congested fixture periods.

Non-linear trends using the generalized additive models in physical and technical performances of the Chinese Super League players

This study aimed to investigate the non-linear evolution of position-specific physical and technical performance indicators across different tactical formations in the Chinese Super League (CSL) from the 2015 to the 2021 seasons. Match data were collected from 800 games played in six common formations (3-5-2, 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, 4-4-2, 3-4-3, and 4-1-4-1). Players were classified into five positions: central defenders (CD; match observations = 2,219), fullbacks (FB; match observations = 2,060), central midfielders (CM; match observations = 2,786), wide midfielders (WM; match observations = 1,587), and forwards (FW; match observations = 1,680). Generalized additive models (GAMs) were constructed to analyze the nonlinear evolution trends in position-specific physical and technical performance across seasons and formations. The results showed that the total distance covered by CDs in the 3-5-2 formation showed a non-linear upward trend from the 2015 to 2021 seasons (R2 = 0.3, p = 0.006); FBs in the 3-4-3, 4-1-4-1, and 3-5-2 formations exhibited non-linear upward trends in number of sprints and sprint distance from the 2015 to 2021 seasons (R2 = 0.189-0.448; P < 0.03, respectively); the high-speed running of FWs in the 4-2-3-1 formation displayed a non-linear decline trend from the 2015 to 2021 seasons (R2 = 0.477; P < 0.001); CMs in the 4-2-3-1 formation demonstrated a non-linear increasing trend in the ball retention percentage (R2 = 0.369; p = 0.001); WMs in the 4-4-2 formation showed a non-linear decreasing trend in ball retention percentage and passes from the 2015 to 2021 seasons (R2 = 0.259-0.29; P = 0.006, respectively). These findings revealed non-linear evolutionary trends in physical and technical performances across positions and formations, providing an in-depth understanding of the changing match demands placed on players during matches. This enables the optimization of training and tactics by developing targeted strategies tailored to meet the specific requirements of different formations and playing positions.

Analyzing Key Factors on Training Days within a Standard Microcycle for Young Sub-Elite Football Players: A Principal Component Approach

Utilizing techniques for reducing multivariate data is essential for comprehensively understanding the variations and relationships within both biomechanical and physiological datasets in the context of youth football training. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify the primary factors influencing training sessions within a standard microcycle among young sub-elite football players. A total of 60 male Portuguese youth sub-elite footballers (15.19 ± 1.75 years) were continuous monitored across six weeks during the 2019-2020 in-season, comprising the training days from match day minus (MD-) 3, MD-2, and MD-1. The weekly training load was collected by an 18 Hz global positioning system (GPS), 1 Hz heart rate (HR) monitors, the perceived exertion (RPE) and the total quality recovery (TQR). A principal component approach (PCA) coupled with a Monte Carlo parallel analysis was applied to the training datasets. The training datasets were condensed into three to five principal components, explaining between 37.0% and 83.5% of the explained variance (proportion and cumulative) according to the training day (p < 0.001). Notably, the eigenvalue for this study ranged from 1.20% to 5.21% within the overall training data. The PCA analysis of the standard microcycle in youth sub-elite football identified that, across MD-3, MD-2, and MD-1, the first was dominated by the covered distances and sprinting variables, while the second component focused on HR measures and training impulse (TRIMP). For the weekly microcycle, the first component continued to emphasize distance and intensity variables, with the ACC and DEC being particularly influential, whereas the second and subsequent components included HR measures and perceived exertion. On the three training days analyzed, the first component primarily consisted of variables related to the distance covered, running speed, high metabolic load, sprinting, dynamic stress load, accelerations, and decelerations. The high intensity demands have a high relative weight throughout the standard microcycle, which means that the training load needs to be carefully monitored and managed.

The physical demands of the match according to playing positions in a South African Premier Soccer League team

Background

Evidence indicates that international soccer players cover a total distance of between eight and 14 km in a match. Approximately 80 - 90% of this distance constitutes low-intensity actions, and about 10 - 20% is high-intensity. These data are influenced by playing position, formation, league standard, and national differences in different countries.

Objective

To quantify the physical demands of competitive matches on the different playing positions in a South African Premier Soccer League team.

Methods

A descriptive study design included 21 players on the same team. Data were collected over 23 official matches during the 2019/2020 season using PlayerTek GPS devices (10Hz). The data collected included total distance covered, high-intensity running distance, power plays, top-end speed, and distance per minute.

Results

Statistical differences were evident only in the high-intensity running distance and power plays. The centre-forwards (p<0.001), attacking central midfielders (p=0.006), and full-backs (p=0.01) covered the most high-intensity running distance (p<0.001) than centre-backs. The attacking central midfielders and centre-forwards recorded more power plays than the centre-backs. Total distance (p=0.01), power plays (p=0.004) and distance per minute (p=0.001) were lower in the second half than in the first half of the match.

Conclusion

Centre-forwards performed more high-intensity actions, whereas the centre-backs sprinted less than all the other positions. These data provide insight into the positional differences that exist and could help coaches to prescribe position-specific training programmes.

Match running performance is influenced by possession and team formation in an English Premier League team

The aim of this study was to examine the possession (very low, low, high, and very high), team formation (3-5-2 and 4-3-3) and position (centre-backs, full-backs, centre midfielders, attacking midfielders, and centre forwards) on match load across two consecutive seasons in elite soccer. Twenty-seven English Premier League outfield players were recruited. Data was monitored through an 18 Hz Global Positioning System and a 25 Hz semi-automated camera tracking system, respectively, and all variables were analysed per minute. Main effects for formation on total distance (TD) (p = 0.006; η 2 = 0.010), high-speed running (HSR) (p = 0.009; η 2 = 0.009), number of high metabolic load (HML) efforts (p = 0.004; η 2 = 0.011) were observed. In addition, there were significant interaction effects with formation × possession on TD (p < 0.001; η 2 = 0.043), HSR (p = 0.006; η 2 = 0.018), sprinting (p < 0.001; η 2 = 0.030), HML efforts (p < 0.001; η 2 = 0.035), accelerations (p < 0.001; η 2 = 0.025). From the position-specific analysis, only the running performance of centre-backs was affected by formation or positional factors. These results indicate that formation and possession can have a significant impact on TD, HSR, and HML distance. Furthermore, players performed more high-intensity efforts in 3-5-2 than 4-3-3 formation. These findings suggest that coaches can evaluate running performance in the context of formation and possession and tailor tactical strategies to optimise physical performance.

Playing position and match location affect the number of high-intensity efforts more than the quality of the opposition in elite football players

This study aimed to examine the impact of playing position (PP), match location (ML), and opposition standard (OS) on team and individual acceleration (ACC) and deceleration (DEC) efforts. Fifty professional football players were monitored across 24 English Premier Development League matches during the 2020/21 season. High-intensity ACC and DEC thresholds were set at > +3 m · s-2 and < -3 m · s-2, respectively. Players were divided into five PPs: centre backs (CB; n = 68), full-backs (FB; n = 24), centre midfielders (CM; n = 54), wide midfielders (WM; n = 15), centre forwards (CF; n = 27). Opposition standard was categorised as Top (1st-4th), Middle (5th-9th), and Bottom (9th-13th) based on final league ranking of the study season. Each match location was classified as Home or Away. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and a multivariate ANOVA analysed the independent effect of PP, ML and OS on ACC and DEC efforts, and the interaction of all contextual factors, respectively. Acceleration efforts were affected by PP and ML. FB performed 22% more ACC than WM. All players performed 6% more ACC actions during home matches compared to away fixtures. DEC efforts were only affected by PP, with FB and CM executing 26% and 32% greater DEC efforts than CB, respectively. When playing against top or middle teams at home, CB, CM, and CF tended to perform more high-intensity actions than when playing away. In contrast, when playing against top teams at home, FB and WM performed fewer high-intensity actions than when playing away. Playing position and ML affected ACC and DEC actions but not OS.

Analysis of player speed and angle toward the ball in soccer

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.

The influence of match status on the conditional characteristics of tactical sprint actions in professional soccer players

This study aimed to analyse the influence of the match status on the conditional characteristics of tactical sprint actions among Spanish professional soccer players, considering playing positions. Thirty-two Spanish male professional soccer players from a LaLiga Spanish Second Division (LaLiga SmarthBank) team participated in this study. Actions above 85% of the players' maximum velocity were analysed based on their tactical purpose. These findings provide valuable information regarding the tactical aspects of sprinting in soccer, emphasizing the influence of playing positions and match status on the distribution of tactical sprint actions. No effects of match status were observed for any game phase. However, when tactical actions were individually studied, it was observed that the maximum velocity in Chase actions was higher when the team was winning, while in Press actions, the maximum velocity was higher when the team was losing and in in Run in behind/Penetrate, the maximum velocity was higher in drawing situations compared to losing situations. No effects of match status on the distance covered during sprinting were observed, and regarding duration, significant differences were only observed in Recovery run actions. In addition, the influence of match status is higher when playing positions are considered, although the within playing positions analysis revealed significant differences only in CM players. These findings provide valuable information for the design of specific training drills considering playing positions, suggesting the need to analyse the previous match in order to structure the training load of the microcycle in a comprehensive manner.

The influence of tactical formation on physical and technical performance across playing positions in the Chinese super league

This study aimed to investigate the impact of tactical formations on the physical and technical performance of professional football players in the Chinese Super League (CSL). A sample of 800 games from the 2015-2021 CSL was analyzed, and players' physical (total distance covered, distance covered while ball in play, number of sprints, sprint distance, and high/middle/low-speed running) and technical (gain/loss of possession, ball retention percentage, challenges, challenge success percentage, passes, and pass success percentage) performance was assessed across six team formations: 3-5-2 (n = 137), 4-3-3 (n = 77), 4-2-3-1 (n = 391), 4-4-2 (n = 257), 3-4-3 (n = 41), and 4-1-4-1 (n = 107). Linear mixed models were used to assess variations in performance indicators across positions and formations. The results demonstrated that central defenders traveled significantly more total and low-speed running distances in the 3-5-2 formation than in the 4-2-3-1 formation (ES range: 0.33-0.34, p < 0.01). Fullbacks in the 3-5-2 formation demonstrated more high-speed running than did those in the 4-4-2 formation (ES = 0.27, p = 0.04). The central midfielders exhibited significantly more sprints and longer sprint distances in the 4-2-3-1 formation than in the 4-4-2 formation (ES range: 0.2-0.24, p < 0.01). Regarding technical performance, central defenders displayed significantly greater ball retention percentages, passes, and pass success rates in the 3-4-3 than in the 3-5-2 formations (ES range: 0.58-0.65, p < 0.01). Moreover, fullbacks and central midfielders executed markedly more passes with superior pass success rates in 4-back formations than in 3-5-2 formations (ES range: 0.2-0.53, p < 0.01). These findings can help coaches and academic staff understand the physical and technical requirements of various positions in various tactical formations, thus optimizing the training process.

'Setting the Benchmark' Part 2: Contextualising the Physical Demands of Teams in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

This study aimed to contextualise and benchmark the physical demands of teams in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. With FIFA's official approval, all sixty-four games were analysed during the competition (n = 32 teams) using a multi-camera computerised tracking system. On average, teams during Qatar 2022 covered around 108.1 ± 3.6 km in total, with 9.0 ± 0.9 and 2.3 ± 0.3 km covered at the higher intensities (≥20.0 and ≥25.0 km · h-1), respectively. Compared to the FIFA World Cup Russia 2018, national teams in Qatar 2022 covered only 3% more total distance but 16-19% more distance at the higher intensities (P < 0.01; Effect Size [ES]: 0.9-2.0). When the data was adjusted based on the number of minutes played, tournament differences at the higher intensities were less pronounced (9-12%; P < 0.01; ES: 0.7-1.3). The United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Germany and IR Iran covered 19-34% more high-intensity distance than Argentina, Ecuador, Qatar, Poland and Costa Rica during the 2022 tournament (P < 0.01; ES: 3.2-3.5). Match-to-match variation of each team in Qatar 2022 revealed Ecuador and Uruguay were particularly consistent for the distances covered at higher intensities (Coefficient of Variation [CV]: 2-3%), whilst Japan demonstrated considerable variation (CV: 23-29%). Teams generally covered more total distance on a per-minute basis in the first versus the second half (P < 0.01; ES: 1.2), but no differences existed at higher intensities (P > 0.05; ES: 0.0-0.1). Correlations between the number of high-intensity runs and various phase of play events across all teams were strongest for defensive transitions and recoveries, in addition to progressions up the pitch and into the final third (r = 0.63-0.75; P < 0.01). The present findings provide valuable context into the contemporary team demands of international football. This information could be useful for practitioners to benchmark team performances and to potentially understand the myriad of factors impacting physical performances.

'Setting the Benchmark' Part 1: The Contextualised Physical Demands of Positional Roles in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

This study aimed to contextualise and benchmark the positional role demands during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. With FIFA's official approval, all sixty-four games were analysed during the competition (n=722) using a multi-camera computerised tracking system. During a typical FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 match, defensive and central midfielders covered 8-19% more total distance than other positional roles (P<0.01; Effect Size [ES]: 0.8-2.5). The distances covered at higher intensities (≥20 and ≥25 km · h-1) were 16-92% and 36-138% higher for wide midfielders and wide forwards compared to central defenders, defensive and central midfielders as well as centre forwards (P<0.01; ES: 0.7-2.2 and ES: 0.6-1.4). Defensive and central midfielders covered a greater proportion of their distance at higher intensities (≥20 and ≥25 km · h-1) out-of-possession (71-83%; P<0.01; ES: 1.4-3.0), whilst attacking midfielders, wide and centre forwards more in-possession (55-68%; P<0.01; ES: 1.6-3.3). Nine out of the top ten sprint speeds attained at the tournament were from wide positional roles (35.3-35.7 km · h-1). All positional roles demonstrated a second half reduction in total distance covered compared to the first half (P<0.01; ES: 0.8-1.3). A decline between halves for the distances covered at higher intensities (≥20 and ≥25 km · h-1) were more evident in attacking midfielders, wide defenders and midfielders than for other positional roles (P<0.01; ES: 0.3-0.7). Defensive midfielders and centre forwards were found to have the highest coefficient of variation (CV: 30.9-35.9% and 67.7-67.8%) for the distances covered at higher intensities (≥20 and ≥25 km · h-1) compared to other positional roles. The current findings provide valuable contextual information about the contemporary positional demands of international football. This could be useful in the development and prescription of specific training regimes for national teams.

Changes in physical and technical match performance variables in football players promoted from the Spanish Second Division to the First Division

The aim of this study was to compare physical and technical match performance variables in football players who competed in the Spanish second division for one season and were promoted to the top (first) division in the following season. A total of 97 male outfield football players who were promoted from the second to the first division of the Spanish professional football league within the same team were analysed. Data were recorded using the TRACAB (ChyronHego, New York, USA) multicamera computerised optical tracking system during five seasons (2015-2016 to 2019-2020). A one-way ANOVA repeated measures analysis showed that players executed a greater number of high-intensity running (HIR) efforts (P < 0.001; ES: 0.258), as well as covering greater HIR distance (P < 0.010; ES: 0.106) and total running distance (TD) (P < 0.010; ES: 0.080), when they played in the first division compared with the second division. Moreover, players performed a lower number of passes (P < 0.01; ES = 0.116), short passes (P < 0.01; ES = 0.106), long passes (P < 0.05; ES = 0.067), dribbles (P < 0.001; ES = 0.146) and shots (P < 0.01; ES = 0.074) in the first division compared to the second division. No significant differences were found for any of the defensive variables evaluated. In conclusion, being promoted from the second to the first division of professional football requires players to adapt to greater physical demands and a reduced number of technical actions.

The Effects of Players' Rotations on High-Intensity Activities in Professional Futsal Players

The current study aimed to investigate the effects of interchange rotations on players` physical performance during competition, with special reference to high-intensity activity (HIA) according to the playing position. Physical performance data, collected from 19 professional players during seven official matches from the Spanish futsal league using a portable local positioning system, included the number of high-speed running activities (>18 km·h-1), high-intensity accelerations (>3 m·s-2), and high-intensity decelerations (>3 m·s-2). Statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05) differences were observed in the number of HIA efforts across rotations and between positions. Players performed more HIA efforts in the first rotation (n = 17.6), suggesting that their first rotation was more demanding than all subsequent rotations. Wingers demonstrated a higher HIA effort and frequency of HIA efforts when compared to defenders (p ≤ 0.05) and pivots (p ≤ 0.001). For all positions, the first rotation was more physically demanding as the number of HIA efforts per rotation decreased with an increased number of rotations throughout the match. Furthermore, higher HIA profile positions, such as wingers and defenders, were less likely to maintain consistent HIA properties (repetition number, time-frequency, and the work-rate) across subsequent rotations during the match. The findings of the study can inform coaching decisions regarding players' rotations to maintain consistent HIA performance throughout the match.

Quantification of training load across two competitive seasons in elite senior and youth male soccer players from an English Premiership club

This study aimed to compare the daily training load (TL) in first-team and U-18 soccer players from an English Premiership club. 36 first-team (age 23.2 ± 5.9 years, weight 75.2 ± 8.1 kg, height 1.83 ± 0.06 m), and 22 U-18 players (age 17.5 ± 1.1 years, weight 71.1 ± 8.2 kg, height 1.78 ± 0.08 m) participated. GPS metrics were measured during all pitch training sessions throughout the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons. Linear mixed-effect model analyses revealed that, irrespective of training day, U-18 players covered greater total and explosive distance than first-team players, and performed a higher number of accelerations and decelerations, whereas first-team players covered greater sprint distance. Irrespective of the team, all examined variables were greater at match-day (MD)-3, while the number of accelerations and decelerations were higher at MD-4. Significant team-by-training day interactions revealed that U-18 players covered greater total and high-intensity distances than first-team players at MD-4, MD-2, and MD-1, whereas first-team players covered greater total and high-intensity distances at MD-3. Sprint distance was greater for first-team players at MD-3 and MD-4, while explosive distance was greater for U-18 players at MD-2. Also, U-18 players performed a higher number of accelerations than first-team players at MD-3 and MD-2, and a higher number of decelerations at MD-4. The present results provide novel information on TL patterns in English Premiership soccer and contribute to understanding how training methods to physically develop players are implemented in different countries and leagues.

Match running performance characterizing the most elite soccer match-play

In order to identify match running performance (MRP) characterizing the most elite soccer match-play, this study aimed to examine position-specific differences in the MRP of players competing in "big five" (BFLTs) and "non-big five" league teams (N-BFLTs). The data were obtained from 24 teams (BFLTs; n = 14, N-BFLTs; n = 10) during the UEFA Champions League (UCL) matches (n = 20) in the 2020/21 season using a semiautomatic video system. The differences in MRP between BFLTs and N-BFLTs, while controlling for contextual factors, were examined using linear mixed model. No differences in overall MRP between fullbacks, central midfielders, wide midfielders and forwards from BFLTs and their peers from N-BFLTs were found, while only central defenders from BFLTs covered more high-intensity running than central defenders from BFLTs (moderate effects size). For players on all playing positions from BFLTs, total- and low-intensity distance covered were lower in offensive phase of game and greater in defensive phase of game compared to their peers from N-BFLTs (all large effect sizes). This study demonstrated that the most elite match-play in soccer is characterized by increased efforts in defensive phase of game, and decreased efforts in offensive phase of game. Soccer training programmes should be adapted accordingly.

Match running performance profiles of amputee football players at the national level

Even though running performance and positional profiles in football are well described, amputee football (AF) has different characteristics of the movement, pitch dimensions, and time played. There is a gap in the scientific literature about positional profiles based on running performance in AF. This study aimed to investigate the differences between positions, the influence of the amputation level or defect of the lower limb (LD), the differences in running performance between halves, and the relationship with the final match result. Thirteen AF National Team players were monitored by Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), tracking 24 official international matches for 17 months. Values of top speed, peak acceleration, peak deceleration, average distance per minute, sprint mean speed, GPS load per minute, inertial load per minute (Gs load/min), number of sprints per minute, and a number of impacts per minute were analyzed for defenders (DEF), midfielders (MID) and forwards (FOR). Additional factors analyzed were amputation level (below the knee, low amputation-LA or over the knee, high amputation-HA or defect of the lower limb-LD) and the match's final result. Midfielders had significantly higher running performance parameters compared to other positions (greater top speed than DEF (+ 0.3 m/s; p < 0.001) and FOR (+ 0.2 m/s; p = 0.045), greater peak acceleration and deceleration than DEF (+ 0.5 m/s2 for both measures; p < 0.001) and FOR (+ 0.4 and + 0.3 m/s2; p < 0.001 and p = 0.036, respectively), greater GPS load/minute than DEF (+ 0.2 load/min; p = 0.001) and FOR (+ 0.3 load/min; p < 0.001), greater Gs load per minute than DEF (+ 2.7 load/min; p < 0.001) and FOR (+ 1.8 load/min; p < 0.001), greater number of impacts per minute than DEF (+ 0.2 n/min; p < 0.001) and FOR (+ 0.2 n/min; p < 0.001). Players with LD had significantly higher running performance than those with LA or HA. In the match's second half, a decrease in running performance was registered. The trend of running more when losing could be observed-AF players had higher running parameters in lost matches, but the differences were not statistically significant. Further research complied with contextual game analysis is needed to assess the running performance of AF players deeply.

Relative Individual Sprint in Most Demanding Passages of Play in Spanish Professional Soccer Matches

(1) Background: The objective of this research was to analyse the most demanding passages (MDP) considering the sprint variable relative to the maximum level of sprint ability of each player as a function of player position, final outcome and part of the match during the competitive phase of a professional soccer season. (2) Methods: Global positioning system (GPS) data were collected from 22 players according to their playing position in the last 19 match days of the Spanish La Liga professional soccer in the 2020/2021 season. MDP were calculated from 80% of the maximum sprint speed of each player. (3) Results: Wide midfielders covered the greatest distance at >80% of the maximum speed (2.4 ± 1.63 seg) and the longest duration (21.91 ± 13.35 m) in their MDP. When the whole team was losing, it demonstrated greater distances (20.23 ± 13.04 m) and longer durations (2.24 ± 1.58 seg) compared to games in which it was winning. When the team ended up drawing, the relative sprint distance covered in the second half was significantly greater than in the first (16.12 ± 21.02; SD = 0.26 ± 0.28 (-0.03/-0.54). (4) Conclusions: Different demands of MDP, according to the sprint variable relative to the maximum individual capacity in competition, are required when contextual game factors are considered.

How do soccer players sprint from a tactical context? Observations of an English Premier League soccer team

The aim of this study was to quantify and tactically contextualise (i.e., phase of play and tactical outcome [TO]) sprints (≥7.0 m/s) of an English Premier League (EPL) soccer team during match-play. Videos of 901 sprints (10 matches) were evaluated using the Football Sprint Tactical-Context Classification System. Sprints occurred within a variety of phases of play (attacking/defensive organisation and transitions) and TOs, both out- and in-possession, with position-specific differences. Most sprints were completed out-possession (58%), with "closing down" the most observed TO (28%). In-possession, "run the channel" (25%) was the most observed TO. Centre backs predominantly performed "ball down the side" sprints (31%), whereas central midfielders mostly performed "covering" sprints (31%). Central forwards and wide midfielders mostly performed "closing down" (23% and 21%) and "run the channel" (23% and 16%) sprints when out- and in-possession, respectively. Full backs most frequently performed "recovery" and "overlap" runs (14% each). This study provides insights into the specific physical-tactical characteristics of sprints performed from an EPL soccer team. This information can be used to assist in the development of position-specific physical preparation programmes, and more ecologically valid and contextualised gamespeed and agility sprint drill construction to better reflect the demands of soccer.

Muscle Contractile Properties Measured by the Tensiomyography (TMG) Method in Top-Level Football Players of Different Playing Positions: The Case of Serbian Super League

The aim of this study is to investigate the differences in muscle contractile properties measured by the TMG method between top-level football players of different playing positions. The sample consisted of 57 football players from the Serbian Super League, divided into three groups: defenders-DF, midfielders-MF, and forwards-FW. Muscles included in the study were the Rectus Femoris (RF), Vastus Medialis (VM), Vastus Lateralis (VL), Biceps Femoris (BF), and Semitendinosus (ST) of the right (R) and left (L) leg. The TMG parameters used in this study were contraction time (Tc), delay time (Td), relaxation time (Tr), maximal displacement (Dm), and sustain time (Ts). The ANOVA results showed that differences in TMG parameters between top-level football players of different playing positions are small and exist only in the Tr of RF (F = 4.658, p = 0.014), BF (F = 4.433, p = 0.016), and ST muscle (F = 3.808, p = 0.028), and the Tc (F = 3.214, p = 0.048) and Td (F = 3.705, p = 0.031) of the VM muscle. All differences were detected between DF and FW players, and all differences were in the left (non-dominant) leg. The results obtained in this study indicate that the training and selection process in football, from the aspect of functional and mechanical muscle properties, should be similar for all players, regardless of playing position. It has been shown that TMG has relatively low sensitive strength for detecting differences between football players of different playing positions.