Abstract
The aim of the current study was to examine the influence of playing multiple games with a short recovery time between matches on physical activity in elite football. The variation of physical performance (overall distance, walking and light-intensity running, moderate-intensity running, high-intensity running and Sprint) of players during the group stage in the World Cup Brazil 2014 was examined. Footballers played three consecutive matches separated by 4 days. Altogether, 301 physical performance profiles were examined (Central Defenders (CD) = 57, External Defenders (ED) = 59, Central Midfielders (CM) = 61, External Midfielders (EM) = 56, and Forwards (F) = 68). Data were collected using a computerized multiple-camera tracking system (Prozone). No differences were found across the three matches in the distance covered in Sprint, HIR, MIR and Light-IR. External and Central Midfielders reported significant differences in the overall distance covered or that covered in MIR and HIR (p<0.05), however there is not a clear tendency of how playing multiple games modified their physical performance. In conclusion, fixture congestion had no, or very limited, influence on physical performance in elite football players. This indicates that, to a certain extent, top players can cope with a busy match schedule without underperforming.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
More From: International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.