Physical performance analysis of elite soccer players during the extra-time periods of the 2016 UEFA Euro Championship

Authors

  • A Kubayi
  • A Toriola

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17159/2078-516X/2018/v30i1a4842

Abstract

Background: Despite the importance of extra-time in determining success in the knockout stages of soccer tournaments, there remains scant information on the physical demands of extra time on elite players.

Methods: This study investigated the physical performance profiles of all soccer players (N=59) who completed four matches that went to extra time at the 2016 UEFA Euro Championship. Players were categorised as follows: central defenders (CDs), wide defenders (WDs), central midfielders (CMs), wide midfielders (WMs), and attackers (ATs). Match activities were captured using a validated camera tracking system (InStat®).

Results: The findings showed that total distances covered by players during matches consistently decreased by 13% from the first half of the game (112.79±10.17 m) to extra time (103.17±6.39 m). The reduction of the total distance covered, especially in high-intensity running (i.e., high-speed running and sprinting), was more apparent in ATs than players in other positions.

Conclusion: Intervention strategies needed to sustain soccer players’ physical performance during extra-time periods and of post-match recovery modalities warrant further investigation.

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Published

2018-11-05

How to Cite

Kubayi, A., & Toriola, A. (2018). Physical performance analysis of elite soccer players during the extra-time periods of the 2016 UEFA Euro Championship. South African Journal of Sports Medicine, 30(1), 1–3. https://doi.org/10.17159/2078-516X/2018/v30i1a4842

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Section

Articles