Relationship between key offensive performance indicators and match running performance in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023

Abstract

ABSTRACT Football teams usually adopt different offensive playing styles to increase the probability of success. However, the strategy adopted can influence match-running performance. This study aimed to verify the relationship between the key indicators of offensive performance and match running performance in FIFA Women´s World Cup 2023 (2023-WC). Thirteen key offensive performance indicators were collected from 64 matches (from 32 national teams) with a multi-camera optical tracking system (TRACAB Gen5, ChyronHego). Possession, line breaks completed, receptions in the final third and ball progressions were negatively related to distance covered. On the other hand, goals, total passes, and defensive line breaks were positively associated. K-means cluster analysis indicates that the team that outperformed the above variables was the one that was successful in the 2023-WC. Therefore, the superior performance of some variables, such as ball possession and progression, may prevent athletes from covering greater distances. Teams that make larger pass exchanges and make more breaks in defensive lines may be asked to run more. There are specific key offensive indicators that are related to match running performance. This information can be useful for coaches in choosing the strategy adopted.