Relationship between field tests and match running performance in high-level young Brazilian soccer players

Author(s)

Aquino, Rodrigo ^{[1, 2, 3]} ; Palucci Vieira, Luiz H. ^{[1, 2]} ; Oliveira, Lucas de Paula ^[1] ; Cruz Goncalves, Luiz G. ^[1] ; Pereira Santiago, Paulo R. ^{[4, 1, 2]}

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Fac Med Ribeirao Preto, Rehabil & Funct Performance, Ribeirao Preto - Brazil

^[2] Univ Sao Paulo, Biomech & Motor Control Lab LaBioCoM, Ribeirao Preto - Brazil

^[3] Univ Porto, Fac Sports, Ctr Invest Educ Innovat & Intervent Sports CIFI2D, Porto - Portugal

^[4] Univ Sao Paulo, Sch Phys Educ & Sports Ribeirao Preto, Ribeirao Preto - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: JOURNAL OF SPORTS MEDICINE AND PHYSICAL FITNESS; v. 58, n. 3, p. 256-262, MAR 2018.
• Web of Science Citations: 4

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The main aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between field tests and match running performance using computational tracking technology in high-level young Brazilian soccer players. METHODS: Twenty-five young male Brazilian soccer players participated in this study (U-15, N.=13; U-17, N.=12). In the same week, the players were submitted to field tests and actual matches. The field tests were: Maximum Speed (10-30 m), Zig-Zag, Running-based Anaerobic Sprint Test, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1. Additionally, participants performed actual soccer match-play. Match running performance was collected using a fixed video-camera. Subsequently, computerized tracking video-analysis (30 Hz) was utilized to identify each physical performance indicator. Pearson's correlation and linear regression were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The results showed that the majority of field tests were not related to match running performance. The Zig-Zag Test, Running-based Anaerobic Sprint Test, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 seem to be the most specific tests (r=0.41-0.47), however the explanatory powers of these field tests in relation to match running performance were low (R-2=17-22%). CONCLUSIONS: Assessment of match running performance should be included in the evaluation periods of young soccer players, together with the most specific tests reported. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 14/16164-5 - Effects of strength training with vascular occlusion on motor performance in young adults
• Grantee: Enrico Fuini Puggina
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants