Peripheral perception as discriminant factor of tactical behaviour efficiency of young soccer players

Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to verify whether there are differences in peripheral perception according to the tactical behaviour efficiency of young soccer players with similar formal practice time and competitive level. The sample comprised eighty male soccer players from Brazilian soccer clubs. The Vienna Test System was used to assess players’ peripheral perception. The System of Tactical Assessment in Soccer was used to assess players’ tactical behaviour efficiency. Participants were categorised as less and more tactically efficient, and both groups were compared according to their peripheral perception. We found that the tactically more efficient players displayed higher levels of peripheral perception regarding the visual field, reaction time, and tracking deviation measures, in comparison to the tactically less efficient ones. It is concluded that even under similar practice and competitive conditions, there are differences in peripheral perception between players, according to their tactical behaviour efficiency. Our findings suggest that tactically more efficient players display superior levels of peripheral perception and, consequently, better game performance.