As previous literature updates, I have performed a PubCrawler search looking for football articles in NCBI Medline (PubMed) and GenBank databases.

Following studies were retrieved for this week:

1 Differences in anthropometric characteristics and motor abilities of professional football players from leading and average teams in Serbian super league

Reference: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2025 May 2;17(1):111.
 doi: 10.1186/s13102-025-01168-5.
Authors: Radivoje Radakovic, Branislav Majkic, Borko Katanic, Karuppasamy Govindasamy, Aleksandra Aleksic Veljkovic, Alexandru Ioan Băltean, Vlad Adrian Geantă
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12048986/pdf/13102_2025_Article_1168.pdf
Summary: The aim of the study was to examine the differences between professional football players from leading and average teams in anthropometric characteristics and motor abilities. The sample of participants included 55 professional football players from the Serbian Super League, the top-tier national football competition. The sample was divided into players representing the leading team (LT; n = 29) and the average team (AT; n = 26) in the Serbian championship. A total of 16 parameters were measured, including 5 anthropometric parameters and 11 variables of motor abilities, assessing sprint and acceleration performance, agility, explosive power, and endurance. Based on the independent t-test, it was determined that the leading team has a significantly lower fat percentage (0.016) compared to players from the average team. Regarding motor abilities, a difference has been observed on the side of the LT compared to AT in sprint performance, such as 20 m (0.001), and 30 m sprint (0.005), as well as acceleration index 10/20m (0.006). However, in contrast, the AT achieved better results in agility zig-zag (0.000) and zig-zag with a ball test (0.000), as well as index zig-zag (0.038). Additionally, the AT had better results in the test of explosive lower extremity power – CMJ (0.005). There were no differences between players in other anthropometric and motor performances. These findings suggest that while the leading team demonstrates superior sprinting and acceleration capabilities, the average team excels in agility and explosive power of the lower extremities. Although certain differences in anthropometric characteristics and motor abilities were observed between the LT and AT groups of football players, further research is needed to examine these differences in more detail and provide a more comprehensive understanding.

2 Validity of Coupling TRACAB’s Gen5 and Mediacoach Systems to Calculate Accelerations and Decelerations in Professional Football

Reference: Sensors (Basel). 2025 Mar 14;25(6):1804. doi: 10.3390/s25061804.
Authors: Joaquín González-Rodenas, Fabio Nevado, Roberto López-Del Campo, Aitor Soler-Aguinaga, Fidel Agulló, Víctor Moreno-Pérez, Juan Del Coso
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11945950/pdf/sensors-25-01804.pdf
Summary: This study assessed the agreement between an optical video tracking system (TRACAB Gen5, Chyronhego, NY, USA) coupled with Mediacoach software (LaLiga, Spain) and accelerometry data derived from a GPS-Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) device (GPS-IMU; Hudl, Lincoln, NE, USA) in measuring the number and intensity of accelerations (ACCs) and decelerations (DECs) during professional football matches. Data were collected from 46 LaLiga players across three seasons (2021-2024), resulting in 662 comparative match datasets, including 95,371 ACCs and 100,952 DECs recorded by the inertial unit of the GPS-IMU devices (considered as the reference criterion). The video tracking system consistently reported lower values for both ACCs (p < 0.001, d = 0.47) and DECs (p < 0.001, d = 1.17) than GPS-IMU. Despite this discrepancy, agreement between methods was very high for total ACCs (R2 = 0.954) and DECs (R2 = 0.950), as well as for moderate-level ACCs (2-4 m/s2, R2 = 0.956) and DECs (-2 to -4 m/s2, R2 = 0.944). The agreement was lower for high-intensity ACCs (>4 m/s2, R2 = 0.338) and DEC (<-4 m/s2, R2 = 0.838). In conclusion, integrating the TRACAB Gen5 optical video tracking system with Mediacoach software provides an effective method for assessing the physical load of professional football players. However, acceleration data obtained from this video tracking system should not be used interchangeably with GPS-IMU devices, as it systematically underestimates both accelerations and decelerations.

3 Hydration Status, Dietary Habits, and Functional Food Consumption Preferences of Football Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study

Reference: Nutrients. 2025 Mar 19;17(6):1078. doi: 10.3390/nu17061078.
Authors: Georgios Papaoikonomou, Aikaterini Kandyliari, Antonis Vlassopoulos, Olga Malisova, Antonios E Koutelidakis
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11944412/pdf/nutrients-17-01078.pdf
Summary: Hydration and nutrition are two key aspects of high-quality athletic performance. However, little is known about the potential beneficial effects of functional foods in sports. The present study investigates the hydration statuses of and knowledge, dietary habits, and consumption of functional foods among football athletes, both professional (n = 24) and non-professional (n = 20). The study sample had a mean age of 19.9 ± 4.9 years, a mean weight of 74.0 ± 6.0 kg, and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 23.0 ± 1.40 km/m2. All the athletes filled out a questionnaire about their hydration knowledge regarding sports and a functional food consumption questionnaire. Hydration status was assessed through urine color (Ucol) before and after training. The results of this study show that 65% of the non-professional and 59.1% of the professional football players started their training dehydrated, and this proportion increased to 73.7% at the end of the training. Moreover, >50% of athletes were poorly educated in hydration practices during and after exercise. In addition, nutritional habits differences were observed among the professional and non-professional athletes regarding alcohol consumption (p < 0.0001) and fries (p < 0.05). A comprehensive understanding of and tailored approaches to nutrition and hydration need to be promoted among football athletes to realize the benefits of hydration and nutritional strategies that optimize their physiological resilience and competitive edges.

4 Born to win? Investigating the relative age effects in the big five European women’s football leagues

Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2025 Apr 11:7:1546913. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2025.1546913. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Benito Pérez-González, Iyán Iván-Baragaño, José Bonal, Jairo León-Quismondo, Álvaro Fernández-Luna, Pablo Burillo
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12021812/pdf/fspor-07-1546913.pdf
Summary: This study examines the presence of the Relative Age Effects (RAEs) among players in the top five European women’s football leagues during the 2023/24 season. A total of 1,634 professional players from the Women’s Super League (England), Liga F (Spain), Frauen-Bundesliga (Germany), Serie A Femminile (Italy), and Division 1 Féminine (France) were analyzed. Birth date distributions were assessed to determine the prevalence of RAEs both collectively and within each league. Poisson regression analyses revealed significant overall RAEs, with a higher proportion of players born in the first semester of the year. Individually, significant RAEs were found in England, Spain, Italy, and France, while Germany did not exhibit statistically significant effects. When analyzed by playing position, significant RAEs were observed among goalkeepers and midfielders, but not among defenders and forwards. These findings highlight the ongoing influence of RAEs in elite women’s football and underscore the need for strategies to mitigate its impact on talent identification and player development.

5 Impact of Nordic hamstring breaking point angle on football player performance

Reference: PeerJ. 2025 Apr 23:13:e19275. doi: 10.7717/peerj.19275. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Murat Koç, Niyazi Sıdkı Adıgüzel, Barışcan Öztürk, Hakan Engin, Aydın Karaçam, Umut Canli, Bekir Erhan Orhan, Pablo Prieto-González, Peter Sagat , Jason Perez, Maria Isip, Peter Bartik
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12032959/pdf/peerj-13-19275.pdf
Summary: Football demands both aerobic and anaerobic capacities due to its dynamic movements, which include jumps, directional changes, ball control, and sprints. The Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) enhances eccentric strength, which is crucial for high-intensity movements. However, the relationship between Nordic breaking point angle (NHEbpa), which is associated with eccentric hamstring peak torque during Nordic hamstring exercise, and sprint, countermovement jump (CMJ), and change of direction (COD) speed in soccer players has not been sufficiently investigated. This analysis examines the relationship between the Nordic breaking point angle and critical performance indicators-sprint speed, COD ability, and vertical jump-in football players. Fifty-eight male soccer players volunteered for the study. Assessments included anthropometric measurements, CMJ tests, 10-20-30 m sprint tests, and COD (zig-zag) tests. NHEbpa was measured using motion analysis software. Correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship between variables. A multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the individual effects of the sprint, CMJ, and COD performances on NHEbpa, with data analyzed using JASP 0.18. Correlation analysis showed strong positive correlations between NHEbpa and sprint performances (r = 0.633 to 0.666), moderate negative correlation between NHEbpa and CMJ (r = -0.406), and moderate positive correlation between NHEbpa and COD (r = 0.580). Regression analysis results were used to analyze the independent coefficients of multiple variables more comprehensively, revealing significant predictors for performance: 20-m sprint (β = 24.166, p = 0.030), 10-m sprint (β = 22.564, p = 0.047), 30-m sprint (β = 10.677, p = 0.027), and CMJ (β = 4.974, p = 0.034). Conversely, COD performance (β = -0.154, p = 0.470) did not demonstrate a significant effect. The study identified significant relationships between NHEbpa and sprint/CMJ performances (p < 0.05), while no meaningful effect was observed for COD speed (p > 0.05). These findings highlight the importance of eccentric strength in sprint performance, suggesting that other factors may play a more prominent role in COD. Incorporating eccentric-focused training, particularly through Nordic exercises, is recommended to enhance sprint performance and hamstring strength, which are essential for football players.

6 An Isolated Manubrium Fracture in a Young Football Player: A Case Report

Reference: Cureus. 2025 Mar 28;17(3):e81336. doi: 10.7759/cureus.81336. eCollection 2025 Mar.
Authors: Hassan Abou Adma, Huy Tran, Martin Holguin, Daniel Romanelli
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12034034/pdf/cureus-0017-00000081336.pdf
Summary: This case report highlights a rare occurrence of an isolated manubrium fracture in a 17-year-old high school football quarterback. Such fractures are uncommon in athletes despite the high-impact nature of contact sports. The injury was sustained during a tackle and confirmed via imaging as an oblique fracture to the right lateral manubrium with minimal posterior displacement. No reduction or surgical intervention was required, and the patient was managed conservatively with rest, analgesia, and physical therapy, including eccentric training to aid recovery and strength rebuilding. The report discusses mechanisms and the risk of manubrium fractures in contact sports, emphasizing the role of direct trauma and repetitive stresses as etiologies. Imaging modalities such as X-ray and CT scans are essential for accurate diagnosis and ruling out associated injuries to vital thoracic structures. Management ranges from non-operative approaches for non-displaced fractures to surgical interventions for severe cases with rehabilitation focusing on pain management, functional recovery, and return-to-play readiness. Recognizing and managing rare sternal injuries in athletes is important, with an emphasis on a multidisciplinary approach to ensure optimal recovery and safe reintegration into sports. Tailored rehabilitation with incorporation of eccentric training is effective in enhancing recovery while mitigating the risk of re-injury.

7 Strengthening football: The role of the nordic hamstring exercise in preventing hamstring injuries

Reference: J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2025 Apr 28:10538127251326736. doi: 10.1177/10538127251326736. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Roberto Tedeschi, Giacomo Farì, Federica Giorgi, Daniela Platano, Lisa Berti, Andrea Bernetti, Danilo Donati
Summary: Hamstring strain injuries (HSIs) are among the most common injuries in football, causing significant time-loss and impacting player performance. Despite various preventive strategies, the incidence of HSIs remains high, necessitating evidence-based approaches to reduce injury rates.ObjectiveThis scoping review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Nordic Hamstring Exercise (NHE) in reducing the incidence and recurrence of HSIs in football players and to provide practical recommendations for its implementation. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro, and the Cochrane Library. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on NHE interventions for football players were included. The primary outcomes were injury incidence, recurrence, and compliance with NHE programs. The review found that NHE significantly reduces the incidence of new hamstring injuries by up to 60% and recurrent injuries by up to 85%. Players performing NHE demonstrated a 35% increase in eccentric hamstring strength. Compliance with NHE programs was a critical factor in achieving these outcomes, with higher adherence rates leading to better preventive effects. The Nordic Hamstring Exercise is an effective, evidence-based intervention for preventing hamstring injuries in football. Its integration into regular training programs, combined with education to improve compliance, can significantly reduce injury rates and enhance player performance. Future research should focus on standardizing protocols and exploring long-term outcomes.

8 From Gut to Skeletal Muscle: Synergistic Effects of Probiotics and Spirulina Supplementation on Soccer Players‘ Performance and Body Composition

Reference: Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins. 2025 May 9. doi: 10.1007/s12602-025-10579-2. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Afrooz Samsamy Pour, Mohammad Hemmatinafar, Maryam Koushkie Jahromi, Farhad Daryanoosh, Babak Imanian
Summary: Nutritional strategies are critical for optimizing soccer players‘ performance and body composition. Spirulina, a protein-rich plant-based supplement, and probiotics offer individual benefits. However, their combined effects remain underexplored. This study investigated the effects of co-supplementation with spirulina and probiotics on body composition, isokinetic, isometric strength, and performance metrics in male soccer players. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, forty soccer players were randomly assigned to four groups: placebo (PLA), probiotics (PRO), spirulina (SPI), and combined probiotics-spirulina (PRO + SPI). The PRO group received two probiotic capsules (a total dose of 4.5 × 1011 CFU) daily, with breakfast and dinner. The SPI group consumed two 1-g spirulina tablets twice daily (2 g total), with breakfast and dinner. The PRO + SPI group received both supplements in the same dosing regimen, while the PLA group consumed starch-based placebo capsules. Over eight weeks, participants followed identical training regimens. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included body composition (weight, BMI, fat percentage, fat weight, muscle weight), performance metrics (vertical jump, agility, speed, anaerobic sprint tests), and isokinetic and isometric knee strength tests. Statistical analyses utilized repeated measures and Bonferroni post-hoc tests. The PRO + SPI group demonstrated more significant reductions in weight (P = 0.012) and fat weight (P = 0.001) compared to the PLA group, while the SPI group showed a significant reduction in fat percentage (P = 0.034). Agility scores improved significantly in the PRO + SPI group compared to the PLA (P = 0.001) and SPI (P = 0.004) groups. Isokinetic performance metrics, including average power during knee extension at 60°/s and 180°/s, improved significantly in the PRO + SPI group compared to the PLA group (P = 0.018 and P = 0.009, respectively). Similarly, the PRO and SPI groups outperformed the PLA group in isokinetic measures such as absolute peak torque at 60°/s (P = 0.032) and 180°/s (P = 0.006). Also, maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) improved significantly in the PRO and SPI groups compared to the PLA group (P = 0.001 for both). From gut to skeletal muscle, spirulina, and probiotic co-supplementation significantly enhanced body composition, reduced weight and fat mass, and improved agility and isokinetic strength compared to placebo or individual supplementation. These results emphasize the synergistic potential of this nutritional strategy for optimizing athletic performance and recovery, warranting further investigation across diverse athletic populations.

9 The effects of two preseason periodizations on peak torque of knee extensors and flexors of a Polish first league soccer team

Reference: Sci Rep. 2025 May 9;15(1):16231. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-00106-2.
Authors: Miłosz Drozd, Jakub Jarosz, Mariola Gepfert, Jose Antonio Perez Turpin, Adam Zając, Michał Spieszny, Justyna Michalska
Summary: The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two resistance training load progression methods-linear and step-on peak torque and power of knee extensors and flexors during the preseason of a Polish First League soccer team across two seasons. Differences between dominant and non-dominant limbs were analyzed, with progression tracked by tempo of movement and time under tension. Velocity-based training with a linear transducer ensured standardized intensity. Sixteen players from the same club participated in both seasons: 2021/2022 (linear) and 2022/2023 (step). Three-way ANOVA showed a significant leg × training × mesocycle interaction in the knee extensor and flexor peak torque. The post hoc test showed significant differences in peak torque between the dominant and nondominant legs during both progressive load methods – 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 seasons, both before and after the training intervention (p < 0.05). Knee extensors: The dominant leg showed higher values ​​compared to the non-dominant leg. However, there were no significant differences during the 2022/2023 season (p > 0.05). Knee flexors: No difference in peak torque values ​​between the dominant and non-dominant legs before the training intervention – 2022/2023 season. The conducted studies clearly indicate a greater effectiveness of the step load progression, however it also significantly affected bilateral asymmetry.

10 Determining relative population-specific acceleration intensity thresholds in soccer using game locomotion data: Validation of a new method using data from male youth elite players

Reference: PLoS One. 2025 May 9;20(5):e0321275. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0321275. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Pascal Andrey, Karin Fischer-Sonderegger, Wolfgang Taube, Markus Tschopp
Download link: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0321275
Summary: In soccer, relative population-specific acceleration intensity thresholds are required to create meaningful activity profiles. These thresholds can be derived from the maximal acceleration-initial running speed (amax-vinit) regression line, whose determination has so far required time-consuming testing. The aims of this study were to introduce a new method for determining population-specific amax-vinit regression lines in soccer using game locomotion data and to assess its validity as a function of the amount of data used. The method accounts for both the amount of data used and the distribution of high-intensity accelerations across the velocity measurement range when identifying maximal accelerations in game locomotion data. This is intended to minimize the risk of selecting submaximal accelerations or predominantly maximal accelerations with a positive random measurement error. Game locomotion data were collected from 55 male youth elite soccer players using a GPS-based tracking system. Multiple population-specific amax-vinit regression lines were determined using locomotion data from one to five games per athlete. Furthermore, each athlete completed an acceleration test to determine his test-based amax-vinit regression line. The mean biases for the regression coefficients (i.e., amax-intercept and slope) were estimated and assessed using standardization and Bayesian analysis. Regression lines based on locomotion data from two or three combined games showed trivial biases for both coefficients. However, due to the large uncertainty in the estimates, the chance of equivalence was only assessed as possibly equivalent. The proposed game-based method represents a viable and easy-to-implement alternative to the test-based method for determining population-specific amax-vinit regression lines in soccer. This simplifies the process of determining relative population-specific acceleration intensity thresholds, which are required for creating meaningful activity profiles.

11 Development of a preliminary multivariable model predicting hamstring strain injuries during preseason screening in soccer players: a multidisciplinary approach

Reference: Ann Med. 2025 Dec;57(1):2494683. doi: 10.1080/07853890.2025.2494683. Epub 2025 May 8.
Authors: Diane Baize, Stéphanie Mériaux-Scoffier, Anasthase Massamba, Thomas Hureau, Nicolas Reneaud, Yoann Garcia-Gimenez, Florian Marchand, Bastien Bontemps, Baptiste Corcelle, Vincent Maléjac, Amyn Jaafar, Emiliano Ippoliti, Florian Payet, Iliès Ajarai, Fabienne d’Arripe-Longueville, Enzo Piponnier
Download link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/epdf/10.1080/07853890.2025.2494683?needAccess=true
Summary: Reducing the incidence of hamstring strain injuries (HSIs) is a priority for soccer clubs. However, robust multifactorial predictive models are lacking and potential predictors such as sprint kinematics, performance fatigability, and psychological variables have been overlooked. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop a preliminary parsimonious multifactorial model to predict players at risk of HSI through preseason screening. Psychological, physiological, kinematic, performance fatigability and health-related variables were collected for 120 regional and national soccer players during the 2022 preseason. HSIs were prospectively recorded over the entire soccer season. After variable selection, logistic regressions with the Wald backward stepwise method were used to refine the model. The predictive abilities of the model and of the individual variables were determined using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Twenty-nine players sustained an HSI during the follow-up period. The final model included eight variables: age, sex, HSI history, knee flexor performance fatigability, sprint performance (best sprint time and maximal theoretical velocity V0), perceived vulnerability to injury, and subjective norms in soccer. While its model was preliminary, it showed good fit indices and strong predictive performance (true positive rate: 79%, AUC = .82). None of the variables evaluated independently demonstrated satisfactory performance in predicting HSI (AUC≤.65). Using a multidisciplinary approach and measurements of only a few variables during preseason screening, the current model tends to demonstrate high accuracy in identifying soccer players at risk of HSI.

12 Less than 4% of participants in studies of carbohydrate-based fuelling strategies for soccer performance have been female: results from an audit of her representation

Reference: Sci Med Footb. 2025 May 8:1-12. doi: 10.1080/24733938.2025.2501809. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Laura McManus, Vinicius S Faria, Michael Scriney, Brendan Egan
Summary: Women’s soccer has increased markedly in popularity and professionalisation in recent years. Achieving adequate carbohydrate (CHO) availability before and during performance is often advised as a key priority for players. The aim of this study was to audit the literature that informs the current CHO-based guidelines for soccer performance and to assess the extent of evidence supporting their application to female players. Using an established protocol for auditing the published literature, seven databases were searched for research investigating the effects of acute CHO-based fuelling strategies before or during soccer performance. A total of 43 studies met the inclusion criteria. There were a total of 542 participants, of which 3.7% were female (n = 20 individuals) and 96.3% were male (n = 522 individuals). The majority of the studies were designed to examine the effects of CHO intake during soccer (n = 31; 72.1%), with the remaining studies employing pre-exercise CHO intake (n = 5; 11.6%) or CHO loading (n = 7; 16.3%) protocols. Most studies involved male-only cohorts (n = 41; 95.3%), while female-only (n = 1; 2.3%) and mixed-sex cohorts (n = 1; 2.3%) were less prevalent. Of the two studies that included females, neither provided any information around categorisation or control of menstrual cycle status. The current guidelines on acute CHO-based fuelling strategies for soccer are not informed by an adequate evidence base when applied to female players. Given the potential for between-sex differences in physiology and metabolism, the lack of female-specific research means that it is presently unknown whether the current guidelines on CHO-based fuelling strategies for soccer are optimal for female players.

13 Are coordinative abilities impaired during adolescence in academy soccer?

Reference: J Sports Sci. 2025 May 8:1-10. doi: 10.1080/02640414.2025.2502897. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Ryan J Hemmings, Sean J Maloney
Summary: The current study sought to compare single leg (SL) landing and cutting mechanics within a cohort of youth footballers. A secondary aim was to examine how task complexity modulates the relationship between maturation and performance. Thirty-nine soccer players from an English football academy were categorised as pre-, circa- and post-peak height velocity (PHV). As part of routine club testing, players performed 1) bilateral and SL jumps (countermovement jump (CMJ) and 10/5 rebound jump tests), 2) speed (30-m sprint), and 3) change of direction (COD; 505 test and 45° cut) assessments. Landing (LESS score) and cutting mechanics (CMAS score) were determined during SL CMJ and 45° cuts, respectively. Differences in landing mechanics were not observed between groups. However, large effect sizes indicated that CMAS scores were lower in the post-PHV group versus pre- and circa-PHV groups, indicative of a favourable cutting technique. The circa-PHV group outperformed the pre-PHV group in the ’simpler‘ bilateral CMJ and linear sprint assessments, but not in the SL CMJ, 10/5 or COD assessments. The observed variability between participants in the circa-PHV period could be interpreted by changes in coordinative abilities. It is possible that athletes may require closer monitoring and possible training modification during this phase.

14 Cost-effectiveness analysis of implementing a field hospital in a soccer stadium during a pandemic

Reference: Front Public Health. 2025 Apr 22:13:1513709. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1513709. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Sabrina Bernardez-Pereira, Guilherme de Paula Pinto Schettino, Alexandre R Marra, Kaue Capellato Junqueira Parreira, Fabio de Castro Jorge Racy, Rose Mara Miranda, Artur Martins Codeço, Michele Jaures, João Gabriel Dias Pagliuso, Miguel Cendoroglo Neto, Claudia Regina Laselva, Sidney Klajner, Vanessa Damazio Teich, Danilo Nascimento Giliberti, Takaaki Kobayashi, Michael B Edmond, Daniel Tavares Malheiro
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12052751/pdf/fpubh-13-1513709.pdf
Summary: Field hospitals, following the Fangcang Shelter Hospital model, were critical during the global COVID-19 pandemic to alleviate the strain on overwhelmed healthcare systems. Despite their widespread adoption, concerns persist regarding their efficacy and cost-effectiveness. This study aimed to assess the impact of the Pacaembu Field Hospital in São Paulo, Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically focusing on lives saved and the associated public health costs. This retrospective cohort study was conducted April 6 to June 29. The 200-bed field hospital, a collaboration between Sociedade Beneficente Israelita Brasileira Albert Einstein and the São Paulo City Hall, São Paulo Municipal Health Departament, operated at Pacaembu Stadium and admitted. Adult patients with mild to moderate COVID-19. Electronic health records provided comprehensive data on demographics, clinical outcomes, and resource utilization. The mortality rate among field hospital patients was compared to that of two groups: I-confirmed COVID-19 cases in São Paulo, and II-severe acute respiratory syndrome patients with COVID-19 in São Paulo. A total of 152,928 COVID-19 cases were confirmed in São Paulo, with 20,603 patients hospitalized for ARDS and 1,499 patients admitted to the Pacaembu Field Hospital for mild to moderate disease. The median age of Pacaembu patients was 57 years (IQR 46-67), with 43.8% aged 60 or older. Lung disease was the most common comorbidity, affecting 31.0% of cases. The median length of stay was 4.2 days, and 14.2% of patients required intensive care, with 7.9% needing mechanical ventilation. The hospital had a survival rate of 99.8%. The cost per year of life saved, adjusted for gender, was R$44,243.02 (US$8,208.35). In the most favorable scenario, approximately 200 lives were saved, with a cost of R$5,640.92 (US$1,046.55) per life saved for both genders. In the least favorable scenario, around 50 lives were saved, with a cost of R$36,863.48 (US$6,839.24) per life saved for both genders, all within cost-effectiveness thresholds. The Pacaembu Field Hospital played a crucial role in saving lives during the initial COVID-19 wave, highlighting the importance of ongoing evaluation and resource optimization in field hospital strategies for an effective pandemic response.

15 Pelvic Rotation Mechanism in Soccer Instep Kicking Toward Angled Directions

Reference: J Appl Biomech. 2025 May 6:1-10. doi: 10.1123/jab.2024-0189. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Koichiro Inoue, Hiroyuki Nunome
Summary: The purpose of the present study was to clarify the dynamic factors that induce pelvic rotation when soccer players kick a ball toward angled directions using an instep kick. Nine experienced, right-footed, male soccer players instep kicked a stationary ball in 3 different angled directions, 15°, 45°, and 75° relative to the run-up direction, and a motion capture system with a force plate recorded the kicking data. Kinematic and kinetic variables of the support leg, associated with pelvic rotation about the vertical axis, were compared among the kicking conditions. The pelvic rotation significantly increased in response to larger kicking angles, and it coincided with increase of the support leg hip joint and foot segment rotation about the vertical axis. The joint torque at the support leg hip joint significantly increased with the kicking angles. Additionally, the interaction torque due to the ground reaction force was the primary factor driving foot segment rotation relative to the force plate in angled kicking conditions, whereas no remarkable action of the free moment existed. Instep kicks toward angled directions involve a mechanism that increases the pelvic rotation about the support leg’s hip joint and foot segment, which differs from the mechanism involved in straight kicks.

16 Acute effects of static stretching on the knee joint position sense of soccer players: A crossover randomized controlled trial

Reference: J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2025 Jun:42:567-572. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2025.01.033. Epub 2025 Jan 25.
Authors: Joana Azevedo, Miguel Teixeira, Isabel Moreira-Silva, Ricardo Cardoso, Adérito Seixas
Summary: Static stretching (SS) is recommended to increase short-term flexibility and to reduce the risk of muscle/tendon injuries. However, impairments on muscle performance are also reported. Regarding its effect on the knee joint-position sense (JPS), conclusions remain inconclusive. The aim was to investigate the acute effects of two different durations of SS on the knee JPS of soccer players. This 3-period block-randomized controlled crossover trial included 17 male soccer players, aged 18-30 years, with normal knee range of motion and without history of lower limb injuries in the last 6 months. All participants performed 3 conditions: two experimental conditions of SS of the quadriceps and hamstrings muscles, for 30s or 90s; and a control condition (rest). Knee JPS of the dominant limb was assessed before and immediately after the conditions for the range of 45° of knee flexion by active repositioning, using a video camera and markers. JPS was expressed as absolute, relative and variable angular errors. No significant differences in the errors were found between the assessment conducted before or after the SS interventions or Control (p > 0.05). However, intergroup comparisons revealed a significantly higher absolute angular error after the SS of 90s compared to Control (p = 0.003). Also, significantly higher relative errors after the SS of 90s were found compared to Control (p = 0.006) and SS of 30s (p = 0.004). SS of the quadriceps and hamstrings appears to have no effects on the knee JPS, regardless of the duration of the SS.

17 The influence of acute static stretching on the ankle joint-position sense of soccer players: A randomized controlled crossover trial

Reference: J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2025 Jun:42:1011-1016. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2025.03.022. Epub 2025 Mar 4.
Authors: Joana Azevedo, António Moreira, Isabel Moreira-Silva, Ricardo Cardoso, Adérito Seixas
Summary: The effect of static stretching (SS) on the ankle joint-position sense (A-JPS) is still poorly investigated, with the available studies presenting considerable methodological differences, highlighting the need for further investigations. In that sense, the aim of this study was to investigate the influence of two different durations of acute SS on the A-JPS of soccer players. A three-period block-randomized controlled crossover trial was conducted from February to March 2024 with 19 soccer players, aged 18-30 years, with normal range of plantar flexion, without history of lower limb injuries in the last six months, and negative ankle integrity tests. All participants performed three conditions: two experimental conditions, of SS of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior, for 30 or 90 s; and a control condition (rest). A-JPS of the dominant limb was assessed before and immediately after for the range of 20° of plantar flexion by active repositioning, using a video camera. Absolute, relative and variable angular errors were calculated. There were no significant differences between the assessments before and after any of the conditions, neither between conditions in the absolute or relative angular errors (p > 0.05). Variable angular errors indicated a significant improvement in consistency between repositionings in the control (p = 0.024) and SS of 30 s (p = 0.025) conditions, although without differences between conditions (p > 0.05). The results suggest that acute SS of the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior, performed for 30 s or 90 s, does not seem to influence the A-JPS of soccer players.

18 How repeatable is PAPE effect: the impact of in-season isometric squat activation on countermovement jump performance enhancement in national level soccer players

Reference: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2025 May 5;17(1):115. doi: 10.1186/s13102-025-01148-9.
Authors: Jakub Jarosz, Dawid Gawel, Pawel Grycmann, Piotr Aschenbrenner, Michal Spieszny, Michal Wilk, Michal Krzysztofik
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12051318/pdf/13102_2025_Article_1148.pdf
Summary: The post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) effect has been widely studied; however, its repeatability across training sessions during the competitive season in team sports has not yet been verified. Therefore, this study investigates whether PAPE effect, as measured by the countermovement jump (CMJ) without arm swing, induced by an maximum voluntary isometric squat as a conditioning activity (ICA) three days after the match, could be replicated over a 4-week training period throughout the season. The study also explores whether the magnitude of acute PAPE responses correlates with match running variables, as monitored by global positioning system (GPS) data. Fifteen national level soccer players participated in the study (mean age: 26.9 ± 4.2 years, body mass: 79.2 ± 6.5 kg, height: 182.1 ± 6.5 cm, experience in soccer training: 11.2 ± 4.2 years, experience in strength training: 10.5 ± 4.6 years, relative maximal strength in squat: 1.84 kg/body mass). Each participant performed 1 repetition of the CMJ approximately 120 s before (pre-ICA) and approximately 60 s after (as post-ICA) 1 set of maximum voluntary isometric squat using a Smith machine as the ICA lasting 5 s. The measurements were repeated across 4 testing sessions performed week apart and each time 3 days after the soccer match. Moreover, running performance variables during matches including total distance, high-speed running distance, sprint distance, player load, total number of accelerations, total number of decelerations were collected via GPS system. A two-way repeated-measures ANOVA showed a significant main effect of time, indicating an increase in CMJ height (mean difference = 1.05 ± 0.3 cm; Cohen’s d = 0.222; p = 0.005) post-ICA compared to pre-ICA. The one-way ANOVA did not reveal significant differences between sessions, which may indicate repeatable acute PAPE responses (F = 0.093, p = 0.963, η2p = 0.006). Additionally, the one-way ANOVAs did not reveal significant differences in all GPS data between particular soccer matches (p > 0.145; for all). The interclass correlation coefficient for the PAPE response was poor to moderate (interclass correlation coefficient = 0.56, 95% confidence interval: 0.06-0.83). The Cochran’s Q test indicated that PAPE response distributions varied across sessions (p = 0.018). However, pairwise McNemar tests did not reveal significant differences (p = 0.549-1.000), suggesting that while response distribution fluctuated, no specific session-to-session differences were detected. Moreover, Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient, did not show significant correlation between the percentage PAPE responses and all of match GPS data variables (p > 0.074; for all). The findings suggest that ICA can consistently elicit a PAPE response of small magnitude in national-level soccer players with a short 60-s rest interval. However, the variability in individual responsiveness and the lack of a relationship with running variables monitored via GPS during soccer matches indicate that other physiological and neuromuscular factors may influence the magnitude of PAPE responses. Given this variability, individually monitoring PAPE responsiveness may be beneficial for optimizing its application.

19 Slipped upper humerus epiphysis in an adolescent child soccer player: a rare case report

Reference: JSES Rev Rep Tech. 2025 Feb 12;5(2):323-327. doi: 10.1016/j.xrrt.2025.01.006. eCollection 2025 May.
Authors: Poloko Calvin Mekgwe, Collen Sandile Nkosi, Philani Ian Ntombela, Mmampapatla Thomas Ramokgopa
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12047597/pdf/main.pdf

20 Acute effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on the flexibility, strength, vertical jump, and dynamic balance performances of the plantar flexor muscle in professional football players

Reference: J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2025 Jun:42:1079-1084. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2025.03.003. Epub 2025 Mar 6.
Authors: Metehan Yana, Borna Farhoomand, Musa Güneş
Summary: This study examined the acute effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) on the flexibility, strength, vertical jump, and dynamic balance performance of the plantar flexor (PF) muscle in professional football players. Forty professional healthy male football players participated in this study. Myofascial release was applied to individuals using the Graston technique (GT). In a session, GT was applied to the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles of the legs for 270 s. Finally, dorsiflexion range of motion (DF ROM, goniometer), jumping (My Jump 2 App), balance (Y balance test), and muscle strength (hand-held dynamometer) were evaluated before and immediately after the intervention. The mean age of the participants was 21.93 ± 3.47. IASTM-GT could significantly improve DF ROM bilaterally (p < 0.001). In addition, vertical jump performance significantly increased from 31.63 ± 4.65 cm to 32.72 ± 4.55 cm (p < 0.05). The Y balance test demonstrated significant improvements in all directions on the right side (p < 0.05) and the posterolateral direction on the left (p = 0.001). Total Y balance scores significantly increased (p < 0.05), while PF muscle strength represented no significant improvement (p > 0.05). Overall, IASTM-GT acutely enhances DF ROM, vertical jump, and balance performance by improving PF muscle flexibility in professional football players. While no significant muscle strength improvement was observed, IASTM-GT may support injury prevention, performance enhancement, and rehabilitation.

21 Hamstring T-Junction Surgical Repair: An Elite Footballer’s Return to Play Journey Through a New Football-Centered Complex Approach

Reference: Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2025 May 2;20(5):727-740. doi: 10.26603/001c.134126. eCollection 2025.
Authors: Massimo Zanovello, Mattia Bianchi, Lasse Lempainen, Marco Marano, Franco Bidoglio, Luis Suarez-Arrones
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12048364/pdf/ijspt_2025_20_5_134126.pdf
Summary: Hamstring strain injuries have a significant impact in football, with a high re-injury rate, particularly when the distal musculotendinous T-junction (DMTJ) is involved. In some cases, surgical repair is necessary to reduce the risk of re-injury and ensure return to play (RTP) at the pre-injury level. A 24-year-old male football (soccer) player, playing in the Swiss first division, with recidivate hamstring injury, who undercame to surgical repair of DMTJ and returned to play through after 19 weeks. This case report introduces a new football-centered model divided into four main phases, showing how it guided the clinical reasoning used through the RTP process, along with MRI evaluations, clinical outcomes, global positioning system (GPS) data, and strength and power (S&P) neuromuscular testing. The subject gradually returned to team training after 12 weeks and successfully returned to play after 19 weeks. The player participated in 26 official matches throughout the season, accumulating 1.323 minutes of play without reporting any symptoms at the injury site. The subject had a successful return to play following the rehab model proposed in this case report, as he was involved in all the matches, and he played without any symptoms or new injuries.