Abstract
Previous studies have analysed the influence of contextual variables on performance and physical demands in soccer. However, the points needed to remain in the category have been an element that has not been analysed previously. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of match location, match period, strength of the opponent and the points required to keep category on physical performance in professional soccer players. Fourteen Spanish second B Division League matches played by a professional football team were analysed during the 2016/17 season using GPS devices. The 10 main players of each match used the GPS throughout the match. The variables of Total Distance (m), High Intensity Distance (m), High intensity Accelerations (n), Sprint Time (s) and Sprint Distance (m) were analysed. The most notable differences are found in Total Distance covered. Away games accumulated significantly more distance than those played at home, but only in the second half (+230.65 m, IC95%: 21.94 to 438.19, ES: 0.46, p = 0.031). There are no differences depending on the strength of the opponent. However, players covered greater distances during the first half in those matches that were played furthest from salvation (+235.86 m, 95% CI: 49.03 to 422.70, ES: 0.51, p = 0.014). Total Distance is the main parameter affected by situational variables. In addition, the pressure of being further away from saving the category increases the distance covered by players in a game.
Highlights
Recent advancements has shown the constraints to achieving sporting success, performance match analysis utmost importance [1,2]
The comparative analysis between matches played at home or away does not reveal significant differences in physical parameters, except in the total distance covered in the second part
The total distance traveled was significantly lower in the second half both in those played at home (-421.44 m, 95% CI: -599.03 to -243.86, Effect sizes (ES): 0.80, p
Summary
Recent advancements has shown the constraints to achieving sporting success, performance match analysis utmost importance [1,2]. Current literature supports that to achieve victory, players must possess a high level of physical and psychological conditioning, as well as appropriate technical-tactical preparation [3]. It has been shown that matches are influenced by the specific technical, tactical and physical demands of soccer with aerobic training being a very important component for the physical condition of soccer players. In line with the above, it is known that GPS has become the indispensable tool to quantify the player’s load for coaches and sport sciences. GPS, in professional soccer teams is a tool used to monitor the game, providing a reliable and valid measurement to control the load individually of the player and/or the group [6,7]. The fact that the technical staff can quantify the load of the training sessions and matches, adapting it when needed, leads to a minimization of injury risk, avoiding an inadequate distribution of the loads across the season [8]
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