Match demands of female team sports: a scoping review

Load distribution across weekly microcycles according to match schedule in a team competing in the Australian national A-League Women's soccer competition

This observational, longitudinal study compared daily loads experienced in the weekly microcycle for different match schedules among an A-League Women's professional soccer team. Monitoring data were retrospectively accessed from a team (n = 22) competing in the Australian National A-League Women's soccer competition across the 2022-2023 in-season. Internal (session-rating of perceived exertion [session-RPE] and session-RPE load) and external load (total and relative values for total and high-speed running distance) data were acquired from 54 field-based training sessions and 17 matches across a 20-week period. Weeks were categorized according to schedule as: single-match week played on Saturday; single-match week played on Sunday; condensed week (6 days since the previous match); or double-header week (two matches in the same week). Sessions during each week were classified according to the day on which they were conducted prior to match day (MD) as MD-1, MD-2, MD-3, MD-4, MD-5, or MD-6. Linear mixed effects models and Hedge's gav effect sizes were used to compare variables between days. All load variables were highest on MD (P < 0.001, gav = 0.36-7.84, small-to-very large), with the day before matches being generally lower than other training days across schedules (gav = 0.01-3.89, trivial-to-very large). Further, an extra training day was prescribed in single-match weeks when played on Sunday compared to Saturday, with training microcycles appearing rather consistent across weekly schedules. These data may be used as an initial reference for practitioners working in this competition or women's soccer settings. The relatively similar daily periodization patterns across different match schedules highlight greater consideration of weekly match schedules may be needed when planning weekly microcycles according to the schedule congestion faced.

Analysis of FIFA 2023 Women's World Cup match performance according to match outcome and phase of the tournament

The aim of the study was to analyze the FIFA 2023 Women's World Cup match performance according to match outcome and phase of the tournament. Match performance data were analyzed from a total of 64 games, which included a total of 32 national teams. The variables collected from the post-match summary reports were calculated according to match time (i.e., data per minute) and were categorized in four groups: key statistics, in possession and out of possession variables, out of possession defensive pressure variables, and physical performance variables. When it comes to match outcome, significant differences were observed in key statistics (e.g., there were significantly greater possession, goals, attempts at goal on target, total passes, total passes completed, defensive line breaks, and receptions in the final third when winning compared to drawing or losing), in possession variables (e.g., wins showed significantly greater build up unopposed compared to losses and draws), out of possession variables (e.g., wins showed significantly greater high press than losses), and out of possession defensive pressure variables (e.g., losses showed significantly greater total pressure, pressing direction outside, and ball recovery time compared to wins or draws). There were no significant differences in any physical performance variable, except for distance covered in zone 1 (losses > draws). When it comes to the phase of the tournament, no significant differences were observed in any variable, except for distance covered in zone 1 (knock-out > groups). Furthermore, significant interactions were observed between match outcome and phase of the tournament in the following variables: attempts at goal on target, pass completion %, progressions, and average pressure duration. Quantifying and comprehending match-play characteristics hold significant importance in guiding practices within women's soccer. Therefore, this study serves as a resource for the staff of national teams to understand performance according to match outcome and phase of the tournament in an international women's soccer tournament.

Evaluating external load responses to cumulative playing time and position in the European Handball Federation Women's Euro 2022 through an IoT and Big Data architecture approach

The quantification of physical demands placed upon handball players, segmented by their specific roles and duration of play, is crucial for sustaining high performance and minimizing the risk of injury. Leveraging advanced inertial measurement units, this investigation captured and analyzed the external load data of athletes participating in the EHF Women's EURO 2022. The aim of this study was to provide coaching staff with information on fatigue development during periods of high match density. The study evaluated the effects of playing position and cumulative playing time on external load metrics, using linear mixed models that treated individual players as random effects. The study employed a cutting-edge computational framework integrating sensor network technologies, Local Positioning Systems (LPS), and Big Data Analytics within a descriptive analytics methodology. From over half a billion raw records, we distilled 1,013 data entries from 47 matches for analysis. The findings reveal that the wings demonstrated the highest levels of total and high-speed running distances, though they sustained lower PlayerLoad relative to backs. Interestingly, cumulative playing time did not markedly alter load profiles, which may be attributed to strategic substitution decisions by coaches and the players' own pacing strategies. Notable discrepancies within positional demands were observed over time, such as centers displaying increased distance coverage within the 2-3 hour play interval. This study underscores the efficacy of strategic load management and tailored pacing in sustaining player performance throughout high-stakes tournaments. It elucidates the relationship between managerial tactics and player-specific characteristics in the context of external load distribution.

A scoping review of empirical research on executive functions and game intelligence in soccer

Introduction

Executive functions (EFs)-including working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, and planning-are essential for adaptive decision-making in dynamic environments like elite soccer. This scoping review explores the relationship between EFs and game intelligence in adult elite soccer players.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted across six major databases: Scopus, Web of Science, SportDiscus, PubMed, PsycInfo, and ERIC. Fifteen peer-reviewed empirical studies published between 2000 and 2023 were identified and analyzed for inclusion.

Results

The review reveals a strong association between EFs and players' ability to process complex game situations, anticipate opponents' actions, and make strategic decisions under pressure. Evidence also points to possible variations in EF demands across playing positions. Additionally, several studies suggest that EFs may be trainable through perceptual-cognitive interventions, although this area remains underexplored.

Discussion

Despite promising findings, the studies exhibit substantial methodological heterogeneity, particularly in the operationalization of both EFs and game intelligence. This variability limits the comparability and generalizability of results. The review underscores the need for more standardized methodologies, longitudinal research designs, and integrative approaches that account for both cognitive and personality factors to better understand elite soccer performance.

Hip adductor strength tests used in the context of sports: practical considerations

Hip and groin injuries are prevalent in team sports involving high-intensity actions and multi-directional activities. A hip adductor strength test is a widely used tool to assess hip adduction strength, which is a key risk factor for these injuries. Despite its common usage, there is a lack of standardized guidelines regarding the measurement protocol, leading to inconsistent and unreliable applications. This review aims to synthesize existing research on hip adductor strength testing, highlighting the importance of developing clear guidelines for its implementation. This review covers various aspects of the test, including pre-test warm-up protocols, body positioning, device placement, test execution, verbal commands, data collection and selection, and timing of tests. Key findings suggest that standardized warm-up routines, consistent body and device positioning, clear verbal commands, and specific criteria for invalidating test trials are critical for enhancing the reliability and accuracy of the test. Furthermore, consistent timing and the documentation of test conditions are essential for effective athlete monitoring and injury prevention. By establishing and adhering to these guidelines, sports scientists and medical personnel can make well-informed decisions about athletes' hip adduction strength, ultimately improving injury prevention and performance outcomes in sports.

Insights into breast health issues in women's rugby

World RugbyTM supports dedicated women's welfare, injury surveillance and medical/technical interventions, yet breast health has received limited attention. This article aims to provide insights into breast health issues in rugby, including breast impacts and injuries. We discuss how breast anatomy and position may be problematic in rugby. Breast volume relates to body size, which may be increasing in women's rugby, suggesting increased breast surface area and mass, potentially increasing injury risk. Breast health issues in rugby have been reported previously, with 58% of contact footballers (including rugby) experiencing breast injuries. There are damaging effects related to these breast health issues, with breast impacts often causing pain and swelling. Breast impacts may lead to haematomas, cysts and fat necrosis which can calcify over time making them difficult to distinguish from breast carcinoma, causing further investigation and anxiety. In sport, poor bra fit and insufficient support are associated with pain, skin strain and performance decrements. This article reports the potential implications of these breast health issues on performance in rugby. Recent breast-related projects supported by rugby communities may address recommendations identified in the literature for robust breast injury classifications, updated injury surveillance systems and prospective data collection on breast injury prevalence, severity and impact in rugby. These data should inform breast injury care pathways and intervention research, including evidence-based bra design. Understanding the implications of breast impacts on tissue properties, health and wellbeing is vital. Finally, data should inform rugby-specific breast education, raising awareness of this aspect of athlete health.

Research on women's futsal: a scoping review

The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive scoping literature review to provide an overview of the current state of research within women's futsal. We searched four electronic databases (SPORTDiscus, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) up to December 2023. Inclusion criteria comprised original research published in peer-reviewed journals, available in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. The focus was on studies investigating women in futsal, encompassing both players and those in leadership positions, regardless of their age or skill level. The analysis included the authorship (location), population characteristics (number of participants, level of play, and age), themes explored, and primary findings. A total of 692 records were found, but only 175 met the selection criteria. The results highlighted a recent attention in the scientific literature, with the first publications emerging in 2005 and a notable increase since 2016. Strength and Conditioning topics constituted the most frequently explored area, comprising 32% of the studies. Notably, no studies focusing on coaching or management aspects were identified. In terms of the participant population, most studies concentrated on high-level (33%) and senior (84%) players. Few studies have investigated practitioners with disabilities or women in other positions such as coaches or managers. Most of the studies were conducted by Brazilian researchers (60%), indicating the need for investigations in different socio-cultural contexts. The recent academic attention and the upcoming inaugural edition of the FIFA Futsal Women's World CupTM in 2025 reinforce the need for further studies on women's futsal. This review contributes by identifying the scientific gaps that can be explored by future investigations.

Effects of linear and change of direction high-intensity interval training on physical performance of elite female soccer players

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of linear and change of direction high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on physical performance in elite female soccer players. Thirty elite female soccer players (age: 19.6 ± 4.6 years; height: 166.5 ± 4.8 cm; body weight: 60.5 ± 8.3 kg; BMI: 21.9 ± 2.9 kg/m2) were randomly allocated to HIIT linear (HIITLIN) and HIIT change of direction (HIITCOD) training groups. The HIITLIN group performed linear running for 15, 20 or 25 s by keeping constant pace during the entire distance. In contrast, the HIITCOD group performed three changes of direction (COD) with a 180° turn during each interval run at 15, 20 or 25 s. Physical performance was assessed using sprinting, agility, vertical jumps, repeated sprint ability (RSA) and 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test (30-15 IFT). In both groups, all physical performance measurements improved (p ≤ 0.05), except RSAbest in HIITLIN (p = 0.45). Both interventions significantly improved speed over 10 m, 20 m, 30 m, Pro-agility, Zig-zag, RSAavg, fatigue index, maximal oxygen uptake, and velocity at 30-15 IFT, while moderate improvements were observed in countermovement jump (CMJ), CMJ with arm swing and squat jump. However, HIITCOD did not achieve superior improvements in any of the aforementioned measurements compared to HIITLIN. Based on the obtained results, we concluded that different types of HIIT training have a positive effect on physical performance in elite female soccer players.

How Match-Related Variables Influence the Physical Demands of Professional Female Soccer Players during the Regular Season

To investigate how contextual or environmental factors may influence the athletic performance of female soccer players during competitions, this study aimed to assess the impact of match-related variables (playing surface; opponent levels; opponent result trends; match status, and match outcomes) on the athletic performance of professional female soccer athletes. Seventeen athletes (25.5 ± 4.3 years of age) from the same team competing in the Italian second division were divided into two groups according to their roles and athletic characteristics: Group A (central defenders and forwards) and Group B (right/left full-backs and midfielders). Total distance (TD) and sprint distance (SD); high-speed running (HSR), acceleration (ACC), and deceleration numbers (DEC); average and maximal heart rate (HR_avg; HR_max); and match-related factors were collected during the 22 regular season matches. A T-test and ANOVA were used to calculate the differences between groups in GPS and HR variables and the effects of match-related factors, respectively. Results showed higher running performance in the B group compared to the A group during matches. Increased ACC number was seen in matches played on artificial turf; winning was associated with decreased HR_max and increased DEC number. Athletes covered higher TD reaching lower HR_max when playing against lower-ranking opponents while matches lost/drawn resulted in higher HSR. High HRs (max and avg) were found when playing against a team with a positive performance trend. In summary, match-related factors and opponents' characteristics can affect athletic performance in female soccer athletes. These factors should be considered during in-seasonal training to personalize match preparation and optimize athlete performance.

Comparative analysis of standard and contrast elastic resistance band training effects on physical fitness in female adolescent handball players

This study aimed to compare the effects of two elastic band 10-week training programmes on the athletic performance in adolescent female handball players. Participants aged 16.0 ± 0.5 years were randomly assigned to control (CNT, n = 12), standard elastic band (SEB, n = 12), or contrast elastic band (CEB, n = 12) programmes, each performed twice a week supplementing the regular training. The sprint (10 m and 20 m), modified Illinois change-of-direction test (COD), squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), standing long jump (SLJ), back extensor strength (BES), medicine ball throw (MBT), 1-RM bench press, 1-RM half squat, repeated sprint ability, and force-velocity (F-V) tests were measured before and after the intervention. Both CEB and SEB similarly improved sprint (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01) and COD (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01) when compared to CNT. Jumping performance improved significantly (SJ p < 0.01; CMJ p < 0.05) only in CEB, compared to CNT. Strength improved in both experimental groups (p < 0.01; ES: 0.73 < d < 1.59) compared to CNT, and there was a greater increase for CEB than SEB (p < 0.05) in the medicine ball throw (Table 3). Both CEB and SEB increased all RSA scores compared to CNT (p < 0.01; ES: 0.10 < d < 1.22), without significant difference between them. All F-V scores increased significantly in CEB and SEB compared to CNT (p < 0.01; ES: 0.45 < d < 2.47). In addition, CEB showed substantial gains in performance for PPabs, PPrel, and F0 (p < 0.001, p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively) compared to SEB. Ten-week elastic band training conducted within the competitive season improved limb strength, power and F-V profile in female handball players, with a superior effect of the contrast elastic band training mode for upper-limb strength and F-V characteristics.

The Evolution of Physical Performance throughout an Entire Season in Female Football Players

Research on the evolution of performance throughout a season in team sports is scarce and mainly focused on men's teams. Our aim in this study was to examine the seasonal variations in relevant indices of physical performance in female football players. Twenty-seven female football players were assessed at week 2 of the season (preseason, PS), week 7 (end of preseason, EP), week 24 (half-season, HS), and week 38 (end of season, ES). Similar to the most common used conditioning tests in football, testing sessions consisted of (1) vertical countermovement jump (CMJ); (2) 20 m running sprint (T20); (3) 25 m side-step cutting maneuver test (V-CUT); and (4) progressive loading test in the full-squat exercise (V1-LOAD). Participants followed their normal football training procedure, which consisted of three weekly training sessions and an official match, without any type of intervention. No significant time effects were observed for CMJ height (p = 0.29) and T20 (p = 0.11) throughout the season. However, significant time effects were found for V-CUT (p = 0.004) and V1-LOAD (p = 0.001). V-CUT performance significantly improved from HS to ES (p = 0.001). Significant increases were observed for V1-LOAD throughout the season: PS-HS (p = 0.009); PS-ES (p < 0.001); EP-ES (p < 0.001); and HS-ES (p = 0.009). These findings suggest that, over the course of the season, female football players experience an enhancement in muscle strength and change of direction ability. However, no discernible improvements were noted in sprinting and jumping capabilities during the same period.