What characteristics differentiate winning, drawing and losing in soccer small-sided games? A multidimensional analysis based on the responses of young athletes

Abstract

Abstract: The present study aimed to analyze the physiological, physical, technical, and tactical responses of young soccer players according to the result in small-sided games. The sample consisted of 39 players (15.9 ± 1.0 years of age) grouped by the outcome of the games, winning (17), drawing (6), and losing (16). Physical and physiological responses were quantified using a portable GPS and a cardiac monitor. The rating of perceived exertion was measured using the BORG 6-20 scale. Technical-tactical responses were assessed according to the frequency and quality of execution of technical skills and core tactical principles. Shapiro-Wilk, Kruskal-Wallis, Mann Whitney U and Multinomial Logistic Regression tests were used in the analysis. Significance was set at 5%. Players in the groups “winning” and “drawing” covered greater distances in low-intensity running and shorter distances in walking. The “drawing” group executed more passes than the “losing” group (14.0 vs 10.0). The “winning” group showed greater efficiency of execution in three offensive and three defensive principles compared to the “losing” group. It was found that the increase in the efficiency of execution of offensive and defensive principles increases the chances of the players being in “drawing” (11 to 24%) or “winning” (10% to 21%) groups in relation to “losing”. It is concluded that the physiological, physical, technical, and tactical responses influence competitive success, and the increase in tactical efficiency results in more chances to achieve winning or drawing.