Progression to the target vs. regular rules in Soccer small-sided Games

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Soccer Performance Analysis

Background:

• Small-sided games (SSG) are crucial for soccer training.
• Comparing different SSG rules is essential for optimizing player development.
• This study investigates two SSG conditions: progression to the target rule (PG) and regular rules (RG).

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the physical, physiological, and spatiotemporal responses of U-20 soccer athletes under PG and RG conditions.
• To determine the impact of different SSG rules on key performance indicators.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for soccer training protocols.

Main Methods:

• Twenty U-20 soccer athletes participated in the study.
• Two SSG formats (PG and RG) were played in four 4-minute bouts with recovery.
• Physiological (heart rate) and physical (distance, acceleration, spatial exploration) data were collected using GPS devices.

Main Results:

• Regular rules (RG) led to greater pitch width occupation and increased low-to-moderate intensity physical outputs.
• Progression to the target rule (PG) resulted in higher distances covered at maximal speeds and accelerations.
• RG demanded more extensive spatial exploration compared to PG.

Conclusions:

• The PG rule effectively enhances players' speed and acceleration capabilities.
• The RG condition is more suitable for developing players' ability to utilize pitch width offensively.
• Both SSG rules offer unique training stimuli for soccer players.