Influence of opposition team formation on physical and skill-related performance in a professional soccer team

Abstract

This study examined the influence of opposition team formation on physical and skill-related performance in a professional soccer team. Performance in 45 French League 1 matches played over three competitive seasons (2007–2008, 2008–2009, and 2009–2010) was analysed using multi-camera computerized tracking. Players (n=21) in the reference team (using a 4-3-3/4-5-1 formation) were analysed in matches against three opposition team formations: 4-4-2 (11 games), 4-3-3/4-5-1 (16 games), and 4-2-3-1 (18 games). Performance was compared for defending and midfield units as a whole and individually across four positions: full backs, central defenders, central midfielders, and wide midfielders. Collectively, players covered a greater total distance (P−1) (P−1) and very high-intensity running (≥19.8 km · h⁻¹) was not affected by opposition formation. In contrast, players covered more distance in total high-intensity performance (≥14.4 km · h⁻¹) when the reference team was in possession against a 4-4-2 compared with a 4-2-3-1 formation (PPPPPPPPPPPPP<0.01). In general, the findings suggest that physical performance in the reference team was not greatly affected by opposition team formation. In contrast, skill-related demands varied substantially according to opponent formation and may have consequences for tactical and technical preparation and team selection policies.