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 Physical Functional Characteristics of Elite Adolescent and Collegiate Male Soccer Athletes: A Comparative Study Using Medical Check-Ups

Reference: J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. 2026 Mar 5;11(1):107. doi: 10.3390/jfmk11010107.
Authors: Tingxu Zhang, Hanyan Yan, Ziwen Mu, Ang Ni, Haoxiang Wang, Zhiqiang Han, Kazuhiro Imai, Xiao Zhou
Summary: Physical functional capacity plays a critical role in sports performance and changes markedly from adolescence to adulthood. This study aimed to compare the physical functional characteristics between adolescent and collegiate soccer athletes. Fifty elite male soccer athletes (30 adolescents, 20 college students) were assessed for joint range of motion, muscle flexibility, dynamic balance, and trunk functional capacity. Adolescent athletes achieved significantly greater general joint laxity score than collegiate athletes (p = 0.01), with significantly greater hip range of motion across all planes (abduction, internal rotation, and external rotation; all p < 0.01). College athletes had significantly lower SLR degree (left: p < 0.01, right: p < 0.05) but significantly greater degrees on passive Ely’s test (p < 0.01) than adolescent athletes. Collegiate athletes delivered significantly superior dynamic balance performance in the Y-balance test, particularly in the posterolateral and posteromedial directions (all p < 0.05). Unexpectedly, trunk functional capacity was significantly lower in collegiate athletes compared with adolescents (p < 0.01). Limb asymmetry was observed in both groups: collegiate athletes showed asymmetry only in the anterior reach direction of the Y-balance test (p = 0.018), whereas adolescents exhibited asymmetry across multiple joints (ankle, hip, hamstrings, and quadriceps; all p < 0.05) and in the posterolateral direction of the Y-balance test (p < 0.01). Adolescent athletes demonstrated significantly superior joint range of motion and lower limb flexibility, whereas collegiate players exhibited better balance performance, indicating distinct functional profiles between the two cohorts, which may be associated with differences in training experience and developmental stages.

2 Vertical Force-Velocity Profiling in Soccer: A Systematic Review of Evidence, Assumptions, and Limitations

Reference: J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. 2026 Feb 27;11(1):99. doi: 10.3390/jfmk11010099.
Authors: Khairi Salim, El Mouahid Khalid, Chmura Paweł, Rfaki Abderrazak
Summary: This systematic review critically examined how vertical force-velocity profiling has been used and interpreted in soccer research, with particular attention to methodological limitations and practical constraints. Following PRISMA guidelines, four databases were searched up to January 2025, and eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Several studies reported statistical associations between vertical F-V variables (particularly Pmax and V0) and jump- and sprint-related outcomes; however, these associations were heterogeneous, task-dependent, and sensitive to modeling assumptions. Age- and maturity-related studies demonstrate progressive increases in F0 and Pmax across developmental stages, explaining much of the inter-individual variability in youth populations. Positional and sex-based analyses reveal distinct neuromuscular profiles, with wide and attacking players displaying more velocity-oriented characteristics, and female players showing lower Pmax values. Indirect links with match-related demands, inferred from positional profiles and external load literature, suggest potential ecological relevance; however, direct evidence linking vertical F-V parameters to match-derived GPS metrics remains limited. Intervention studies show that individualized F-V-based training can modify selected vertical mechanical parameters, but improvements in sprint or match performance are not systematic. Vertical F-V profiling may provide descriptive information under tightly controlled conditions; however, evidence supporting its use for individualized or deficit-based training prescription in soccer remains limited and inconsistent. For this reason, vertical F-V profiling should not be interpreted as a mechanistic model of soccer performance, but rather as a context-dependent descriptive framework with restricted ecological validity.

3 Effects of Combined Nordic Hamstring and Speed Deceleration Training on Measures of Physical Fitness in Male Youth Soccer Players

Reference: J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. 2026 Feb 19;11(1):84. doi: 10.3390/jfmk11010084.
Authors: Yassine Negra, Senda Sammoud, Raja Bouguezzi, Younes Hachana, Helmi Chaabene
Summary: A high level of physical fitness is a critical factor for optimal soccer performance. Therefore, developing key physical components such as sprinting, jumping, and change of direction (CoD) abilities from an early age is essential for both short- and long-term athletic success. While previous research in adolescent male athletes has demonstrated improvements in physical fitness following eccentric training, the effects of such training during the pubertal stage remain unclear. This study examined how an eccentric training program, combining the Nordic hamstring exercise with horizontal speed deceleration training, influenced physical fitness parameters in prepubertal soccer players. Thirty-six players were randomly divided into an ET group (n = 19) or an active control group (CG; n = 17). Both groups maintained their regular soccer training routines, with the ET group replacing 15 to 25 min of low-intensity drills with eccentric exercises twice per week for eight weeks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included 20 m linear sprint speed, change of direction, agility, vertical jump, and standing long jump. Significant group-by-time interactions were observed for all performance measures (p < 0.05), with moderate-to-large improvements in the ET group (d = 0.56 to 1.51; ∆3.83% to 14.95%) and no significant changes in the CG (d = 0.05 to 0.24; ∆0.38% to 1.31%). Individual response analysis indicated that 57 to 100% of players from the ET group and 23-58% from the CG group reached improvements beyond the smallest worthwhile change (SWC0.2). Collectively, these findings support the inclusion of eccentric training interventions, such as the Nordic hamstring exercise and horizontal speed deceleration training, to enhance sprinting, jumping, directional changes, and agility in young soccer players.

4 Prevalence and Levels of Symptoms of Anxiety, Depression and Suicidal Ideation Amongst Elite Male Soccer Players: An Age- and Education-Matched Controlled Study

Reference: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2026 Mar 12;23(3):362. doi: 10.3390/ijerph23030362.
Authors: Gisele Maria Rosa Sobrinho, Heloísa Gonçalves Ferreira, David R McDuff, Alberto Filgueiras
Summary: Mental health among elite athletes has received increasing attention, yet evidence from studies including matched control groups remains limited. This study investigated the prevalence and levels of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among elite male soccer players compared with age- and education-matched controls from the general population. A total of 324 participants were included, comprising 214 elite male soccer players and 110 controls. Participants completed the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Suicidal ideation was assessed using item 9 of the BDI-II. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, and non-parametric inferential statistics. In addition, a neural network classification analysis was conducted to examine whether combined anxiety and depressive symptoms could differentiate elite athletes from controls. No significant differences were found in the prevalence of depression (40.19% in athletes vs. 37.27% in controls) or anxiety (87.38% in athletes vs. 90.00% in controls). Levels of depressive symptoms were similar between groups, whereas anxiety levels were higher among controls. Suicidal ideation was significantly less prevalent in controls (22.73%) compared with elite soccer players (46.73%). Neural network classification achieved above-chance accuracy (68.8%) in differentiating athletes based on combined anxiety and depressive symptoms, but low sensitivity reinforces prior results that athletes and matched controls have similar levels of mental health outcomes. Elite soccer players and controls show similar prevalence of depression and anxiety, although anxiety severity appears lower among athletes. The joint configuration of anxiety and depressive symptoms modestly differentiates group affiliation, while suicidal ideation remains more prevalent among elite players. These findings highlight the complex and distinctive mental health profile of elite athletes and suggest the need for continued psychological support and monitoring in high-performance sport contexts.

5 Effects of Weighted Vest Sprint Training on Mid-Acceleration and Reactive Strength in Post-PHV Soccer Players

Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Mar 23;14(3):124. doi: 10.3390/sports14030124.
Authors: Nikola Stojanović, Branislav Majkić, Jadranka Vlašić, Valentin Barišić, Damir Pekas
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/14/3/124
Summary: This study examined the effects of an individualized weighted vest sprint training program on sprint performance and countermovement jump (CMJ) outcomes in post-peak height velocity (PHV) male youth soccer players while accounting for maturation status. Fifty players (mean age 17.76 ± 0.95 years) were randomly assigned to a weighted vest sprint group (WVG; n = 25) or a traditional unloaded sprint group (TS; n = 25). Sprint performance (5, 10, 20, and 30 m) and CMJ-derived variables (jump height, peak power output, reactive strength index modified (RSI-modified), and eccentric rate of force development) were assessed before and after an 11-week intervention performed twice weekly, with the WVG completing sprint drills while wearing a weighted vest (~11% body mass). Weighted vest sprint training produced greater improvements in 10 m sprint performance and RSI-modified (d = 1.37 and 1.55, respectively). However, after Benjamini-Hochberg adjustment for multiple comparisons, the effects were no longer statistically significant and should therefore be interpreted with caution. Maturity offset did not meaningfully moderate training-induced adaptations. These findings suggest that weighted vest sprint training may provide potential benefits for mid-acceleration performance and reactive strength in post-PHV youth soccer players, although the magnitude of these effects remains uncertain.

6 Effect of Acute Caffeine Intake on Maximal Aerobic Speed in University Soccer Players Assessed by the 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test

Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Mar 23;14(3):123. doi: 10.3390/sports14030123.
Authors: Diego Camilo García-Chaves, Juan Pablo Fernandez Zapata, Tatiana Oyaga Álvarez, Nelson Ortiz Escobar, Alfonso Villegas Mazo, Luisa Fernanda Corredor-Serrano
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/14/3/123
Summary: The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of acute caffeine intake on maximal aerobic speed (MAS) assessed using the 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test (IFT) in university soccer players. An experimental, randomized, double-blind, crossover design was employed, involving 26 male university team players (n = 26). Each participant completed the test under two conditions: caffeine supplementation (220 mg; 2.85 ± 0.27 mg/kg, range 2.60-3.16 mg/kg) and placebo, separated by a 72 h washout period. The final running speed achieved (VIFT) was used as an estimator of MAS. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, normality testing, and paired Student’s t-test, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The results revealed a significant improvement in VIFT under the caffeine condition (19.94 ± 1.67 km/h) compared with placebo (18.72 ± 1.50 km/h), with a mean difference of 1.22 km/h (6.5%) and a large effect size (dz = 1.24; p < 0.001). It is concluded that acute caffeine intake was associated with a significant improvement in intermittent aerobic performance in university soccer players under the conditions of the present study, suggesting that caffeine may represent a potentially useful strategy in similar applied contexts.

7 Effects of Between-Sprint Running Intensity on Repeated-Sprint Performance in Professional Soccer Players

Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Mar 3;14(3):97. doi: 10.3390/sports14030097.
Authors: Gregory Bizas, Ilias Smilios, Pierros Thomakos, Gregory C Bogdanis
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/14/3/97
Summary: This study examined the effects of two different intensities of running between repeated sprints and compared them with passive recovery. Thirteen professional soccer players performed two sets of six 30 m sprints on three randomly assigned occasions. A 5 min passive rest period separated the two sets, while sprints were interspersed with either passive standing, running at 95% of the first lactate threshold (MOD) and running at maximum aerobic speed (HIGH). Performance decrements were greater in HIGH than MOD at the last sprint in both sets (set 1: 5.8 ± 4.2% vs. 2.6 ± 3.2%, p = 0.07; set 2: 9.1 ± 4.5% vs. 4.0 ± 6.1%, p = 0.016). Acceleration (0-15 m) was more affected than maximal-speed running (15-30 m) (condition × sprint interaction: p < 0.001). Mean and peak heart rate were higher in both running conditions than passive (p < 0.05), with no difference between MOD and HIGH. Blood lactate showed a significant set × condition interaction (p < 0.001), peaking at 13.6 ± 2.7 mmol·L-1 in HIGH, while blood lactate responses to passive and MOD were similar and peaked after the second set of sprints (10.7 ± 2.1 and 11.5 ± 2.8 mmol·L-1, respectively). Between-sprint running intensity markedly influenced fatigue development during repeated-sprint exercise. The HIGH condition elicited greater metabolic strain and performance decrements than MOD or passive conditions. Within the present protocol, passive standing was associated with smaller decrements in repeated-sprint performance despite high heart rate and blood lactate responses.

8 Evaluating the Reliability and Validity of Predictive Anthropometric Equations for Estimating Fat Mass, Lean Mass and the Role of Maturity Offset in Lean Mass Prediction Within Professional, Academy Soccer Players from the United Kingdom

Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Mar 2;14(3):91. doi: 10.3390/sports14030091.
Authors: Elena Efstathiou, Laura J Wilson, Brent Dickinson, Christopher Curtis
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/14/3/91
Summary: The reliability and validity of anthropometric equations remain uncertain in young athletes experiencing biological maturation. This study assessed the reliability and validity of anthropometric equations against dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-derived fat mass (FM) and lean mass (LM) values and examined the influence of maturity offset within academy soccer players. Twenty-five male academy soccer players (age: 18.6 ± 0.8 years, height: 182.7 cm ± 5.9 cm, BM: 79.3 kg ± 7.6 kg) completed skinfold and DXA assessments. FM and LM were estimated using commonly adopted anthropometric equations. Reliability and validity were assessed. Linear regression examined the influence of maturity offset. Acceptable agreement for the equations of Wilmore & Behnke and Oliver et al. for LM and FM was observed (FM; ICC: 0.858-0.891, CV%: 8.1-8.8 ± 4.6-6.4, LoA: 2.62-3.06 to -1.33–1.62, ES: 0.27-0.47, Z = -2.257–3.150; LM: ICC: 0.886-0.905, CV%: 2.9-3.3 ± 1.3, LoA: 5.17-5.62 to 0.54-0.78, ES: 0.42-0.48, both p < 0.001). Bland-Altman inspection showed mean bias and wide LoA for all equations. Maturity offset modestly predicted LM for all equations. Observed anthropometric equations have limited validity vs. DXA-derived FM and LM in academy soccer players. Maturity offset warrants consideration for maturity-sensitive, population-specific equations to avoid systematic errors.

9 Fitness Adaptations to a Combined Strength and Aerobic Training Program During the Transition Period in Young Soccer Players

Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Feb 26;14(3):88. doi: 10.3390/sports14030088.
Authors: Yiannis Michailidis, Andreas Stafylidis, Athanasios Mandroukas et al.
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/14/3/88
Summary: The annual soccer training cycle consists of preparatory, competitive, and transition periods. The transition phase is usually characterized by a decrease in training volume, which may lead to detraining and declines in physical fitness. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a structured transitional training program on anthropometric characteristics, aerobic capacity, and jumping performance in young soccer players. Twenty-three under-17 players participated in the study and, following a two-week period of training cessation, completed a three-week program that included aerobic training three times per week (continuous and interval running sessions) and strength progressive resistance training twice per week. Pre- and post-intervention measurements were analyzed using paired-samples t-tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The results revealed significant reductions in body fat percentage (p = 0.016, d = 0.547), body fat mass (p = 0.018, d = 0.535), and resting systolic blood pressure (p = 0.024, d = 0.507). Additionally, time to reach the anaerobic threshold (p = 0.022, d = -0.515) and movement speed at the anaerobic threshold (p = 0.029, d = -0.487) significantly increased. No significant changes were observed in the remaining variables. These findings indicate that a three-week transition-period training program combining structured aerobic running drills with progressive resistance training can induce favorable adaptations in selected anthropometric and physiological parameters in youth soccer players. However, the lack of a control group should be considered when interpreting the magnitude of the program’s effects.

10 Influence of Acute Beetroot Juice Intake on Agility Performance Immediately Post-Repeated Maximal Sprinting in Soccer Players

Reference: Nutrients. 2026 Mar 12;18(6):897. doi: 10.3390/nu18060897.
Authors: Xueheng Yang, Takehira Nakao, Atsushi Saito
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/18/6/897
Summary: Acute beetroot juice (BJ) nitrate supplementation may enhance agility and change of direction performance by increasing nitric oxide bioavailability and improving cognitive and skeletal muscle functions, thereby potentially attenuating post-sprint performance decrements. We investigated whether a single dose of BJ improves agility immediately after repeated maximal sprinting compared with a placebo (PL) in soccer players. Twenty-one male soccer players (competitive players: n = 8; recreational players: n = 13) completed a double-blind randomised crossover trial. Participants ingested 70 mL of BJ or PL; afterwards, they performed three sets of 6 × 20-m all-out sprints. Agility outcomes included simple response time (SRT), choice response time (CRT), and change-of-direction speed (CODS). Non-parametric analyses (Wilcoxon signed-rank test with effect size r) were applied. Compared with PL, BJ improved CRT (BJ: 2.376 ± 0.255; PL: 2.534 ± 0.322; p < 0.001; r = 0.74; Z = -5.881) and CODS (BJ: 13.046 ± 1.512; PL: 13.651 ± 1.811; p < 0.001; r = 0.47; Z = -4.314). SRT was unchanged overall (BJ: 1.671 ± 0.195; PL: 1.707 ± 0.261; p = 0.185; r = 0.05; Z = -1.327).
Conclusions: Under practical field-based conditions, acute BJ intake enhanced post-sprint agility and change-of-direction performance, particularly CRT and CODS.

11 Integrating Focused Shockwave Therapy into Rehabilitation for Groin Pain Syndrome: A Prospective Study in Soccer Players

Reference: Life (Basel). 2026 Mar 19;16(3):509. doi: 10.3390/life16030509.
Authors: Gabriele Santilli, Flavia Santoboni, Elisa Checchi et al.
Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/16/3/509
Summary: Groin pain syndrome (GPS) is a frequent and heterogeneous condition in athletes, often associated with persistent pain and functional limitation. Both focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy (f-ESWT) and exercise-based rehabilitation have been proposed as conservative treatment options, but evidence for their combined use in GPS remains limited. This prospective single-arm pilot study aimed to describe temporal changes in pain and function following a multimodal conservative program combining f-ESWT and structured rehabilitation in athletes with GPS, using validated groin-specific outcome measures. Thirty-one consecutive adult soccer players (mean age 28.4 ± 5.8 years; 77.4% male) with clinically and MRI-confirmed GPS underwent three weekly f-ESWT sessions (Duolith; 2400 pulses/session; 4 Hz; energy flux density 0.20 mJ/mm2) integrated within a supervised 16-week rehabilitation program (progressive adductor strengthening, core stabilization, and stretching). Outcomes were assessed at baseline (T0), 1 month (T1), and 4 months (T2): HAGOS (primary), VAS pain, and Roles and Maudsley (RM). Within-subject changes were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni correction. Statistically significant temporal changes were observed across all outcomes (all p < 0.001). HAGOSs changed from 47.23 ± 7.79 at T0 to 77.94 ± 16.18 at T1 and 90.00 ± 14.26 at T2 (partial η2 = 0.89). VAS decreased from 6.81 ± 1.25 to 3.68 ± 1.11 and 1.90 ± 1.45 (partial η2 = 0.91). RM decreased from 2.39 ± 0.50 to 1.52 ± 0.57 and 1.26 ± 0.63 (partial η2 = 0.72). No adverse events were reported. In this single-arm pilot study, the multimodal program combining f-ESWT and structured rehabilitation was associated with temporal changes in groin-specific function and pain that exceeded established MCID thresholds. However, in the absence of a control group, these findings are purely descriptive and hypothesis-generating. The observed changes cannot be attributed to f-ESWT specifically, as the 16-week rehabilitation program likely contributed substantially to the outcomes. These preliminary observations require confirmation through adequately powered randomized controlled trials comparing the combined intervention to rehabilitation alone.

12 Can We Predict Adductor Strain? A Predictive Analysis of a Major League Soccer (MLS) Cohort Spanning from 2019 to 2022

Reference: J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. 2026 Mar 5;11(1):108. doi: 10.3390/jfmk11010108.
Authors: Rebecca Davis, Benjamin C Brewer, Martha Hall, Jill S Higginson
Summary: Despite the high prevalence of adductor injury in soccer, there is limited injury-specific predictive modeling to identify common risk factors. The objective of this study was to create an adductor strain prediction model utilizing injury, game, and performance data collected from a cohort of professional Major League Soccer (MLS) players. We identified potential risk factors for soft tissue, non-contact adductor strain using a predictive machine learning model framework. Performance and injury data were collected between the 2019 to 2022 seasons of one professional MLS team. We utilized Random Forest (RF) machine learning models with Synthetic Minority Oversampling (SMOTE) to predict soft tissue, non-contact adductor strain injury amongst the cohort. Features chosen to be implemented in the model included injury, game, and performance data. From the four models constructed in this study, the best performing model included Catapult Global Position System (GPS)/Internal Measurement Unit (IMU), strength, injury, and game data using a weekly structure determined by F1 score. Multiple models indicated that not having a previous injury lowers the odds of a future injury in the following week or month. Forwards had greater odds of injury whereas defenders had lower odds of injury. Greater hamstring max force lowered odds of injury whereas a greater amount of change of direction efforts increased the odds of injury in the following week or month. Adductor-to-abductor max strength ratio showed conflicting results regarding the odds of future injury. Through the utilization of RF and SMOTE, we were able to successfully predict adductor injuries in an MLS cohort utilizing injury, game, and performance metrics. Validation in a larger cohort would be highly recommended before utilizing the findings of this study in the design of injury prevention protocols.

13 Mental health symptoms among men and women Australian professional football (soccer) players: a survey-based cross-sectional study

Reference: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2026 Mar 26. doi: 10.1186/s13102-026-01664-2. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Daniela Mifsud, Dina C Janse van Rensburg, Beau Busch et al.
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1186/s13102-026-01664-2_reference.pdf

14 Comparative efficacy of different training modes on physical fitness in soccer (football) players: a systematic review and network meta-analysis incorporating randomized controlled trials

Reference: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2026 Mar 27. doi: 10.1186/s13102-026-01668-y. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Shuhao Li, Liang Tan, Weihua Yan
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1186/s13102-026-01668-y_reference.pdf
Summary: Investigating the effects of different training modes on the physical fitness of soccer players. A comprehensive and systematic search was performed to identify studies that met the inclusion criteria, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), with a cutoff date of November 2025. A random-effects network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed within a frequency-based framework. Results: A total of 52 studies involving 1,320 participants were included. Regarding aerobic capacity, SUCRA rankings indicated that High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) had the highest probability of being the most effective intervention for improving VO ₂ max levels (SUCRA=74.3; SMD=0.53, 95% CI [0.15, 0.91], p = 0.007). Regarding anaerobic capacity, HIIT ranked first for improving 20-m sprint test performance (SUCRA = 90.6; SMD = -0.51, 95% CI [-0.80, -0.22], p = 0.001), Change of direction (COD) (SUCRA = 81.2; SMD = -0.83, 95% CI [-1.22, -0.43], p < 0.001), and Repeated sprint ability (RSA) (SUCRA = 73.2; SMD = -0.94, 95% CI [-1.86, -0.03], p = 0.043). Low-intensity continuous training (LICT) presented the highest probability of effectiveness for the 30-m sprint test (SUCRA = 99.3; SMD = -1.26, 95% CI [-2.03, -0.50], p = 0.001) and Countermovement jump (CMJ) (SUCRA = 90.9; SMD = 0.96, 95% CI [0.16, 1.76], p = 0.019). Small-sided games (SSG) also yielded significant improvements in CMJ (SMD = 0.40, 95% CI [0.03, 0.77], p = 0.033) and COD (SMD = -0.51, 95% CI [-0.94, -0.09], p = 0.018). Notably, the HIIT+SSG group (HSG) was associated with a decrease in 20-m sprint test performance (SMD = 1.84, 95% CI [0.69, 2.99], p = 0.002). No training modality showed significant effects on 10-m sprint test performance. For soccer-specific endurance (SSE), HIIT emerged as the intervention with the highest probability of effectiveness for improving Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 (Yo-Yo IR1) performance (SUCRA=86.2; SMD=0.78, 95% CI [0.33, 1.22], p = 0.001). Current evidence indicates that HIIT presents the highest probability of effectiveness for enhancing soccer players’ aerobic capacity and soccer-specific endurance (SSE). Furthermore, HIIT was associated with significant improvements across most indicators of anaerobic capacity. From a practical perspective, these findings suggest the potential value of integrating diverse training modalities in a personalized manner, tailored to specific objectives, to optimize physical fitness outcomes.

15 Post-match changes in biomarkers and fatigue-related physical performance parameters in adult amateur soccer players: the effects of fasting

Reference: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2026 Mar 27. doi: 10.1186/s13102-026-01642-8. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Yakoub Fenni, Mourad Ikiouane, Khaled Kettab, Hocine Remini, Salim Zaabar
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1186/s13102-026-01642-8_reference.pdf
Summary: Ramadan fasting poses unique physiological challenges for athletes, particularly in hot and arid environments. Understanding its effects on post-match recovery and performance is crucial for optimizing training and competition strategies. Eighteen male amateur soccer players (25.5 ± 3.2 years) from a regional club in southern Algeria were evaluated before, during, and after Ramadan. Blood biomarkers—including creatine kinase (CK), C-reactive protein (CRP), red and white blood cells (RBCs, WBCs), hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), and platelets (PLTs) —were measured. Physical performance was assessed using the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YoYo IR1), countermovement jump (CMJ), and 20 m sprint tests. Repeated-measures ANOVA and Friedman tests were used to detect differences across periods (p < 0.05). Significant reductions in CRP, WBCs, PLTs, HGB, and CK were observed during Ramadan compared with preand post-fasting periods, whereas HCT and RBCs remained stable. Yo-Yo IR1 performance declined significantly during Ramadan, while CMJ and sprint performance showed no significant changes. These findings indicate a selective reduction in aerobic capacity with maintenance of anaerobic and explosive performance. Ramadan fasting induces measurable alterations in inflammatory, hematological, and muscle-damage markers among soccer players in hot desert conditions. Although aerobic performance is compromised, short-duration and power-based efforts remain unaffected. Tailored hydration, nutrition, and training strategies adapted to fasting and hot environmental conditions are recommended to support recovery and performance, while accounting for inter-individual variability among adult amateur players

16 Position-Specific Injury Patterns in Academy-Level Male Youth Soccer Players: A 3-Season, Prospective Cohort Study

Reference: Clin J Sport Med. 2026 Mar 27. doi: 10.1097/JSM.0000000000001453. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Andrew Donaldson, Catharine Kral, Shannon Margherio, McKenna Noe, Brian Lee, Brian Harvey
Summary: The aim was to report position-specific injury patterns in academy-level youth male soccer players. An observational study of injury patterns over three soccer seasons from 2019 to 2022. Data collected from a single Major League Soccer Next Academy in the Midwest in conjunction with a tertiary pediatric referral center. All athletes participating in the developmental academy during any of the three seasons studied. Injury rate, type, location, and severity stratified by position were used as main outcome measures. The injury incidence rates for forwards, midfielders, defenders, and goalkeepers were 1.42, 1.23, 1.30, and 1.08 injuries per person-year, respectively. Most injuries were to the lower extremity. Six injuries of clinical importance were identified by the study team, of these, the most common injury among forwards and midfielders was ankle sprain at 32% and 35%, respectively, while among defenders and goalkeepers, it was hamstring strain (28%) and fracture (41%), respectively. Defenders were 11 times more likely to sustain hamstring strain than midfielders (P = 0.02) and goalkeepers were 26 times more likely to sustain a fracture (P < 0.001). In total, 50% of injuries in goalkeepers were classified as severe, requiring at least 28 days out of play. Among academy-level male youth soccer players in the United States, forwards had the highest injury incidence, although goalkeepers were more likely to have severe injuries. The position-specific injury epidemiology furthers our understanding of injury patterns in soccer that can be used to augment injury prevention strategies for academy-level soccer players.

17 The return to running of female soccer players postpartum: timing, prevalence of pelvic floor disorders and urinary incontinence

Reference: J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2026 Apr;66(4):554-562. doi: 10.23736/S0022-4707.25.17398-2.
Authors: Rosario D’Onofrio, Italo Sannicandro, Cristian Savoia, Gaetano Raiola, Gennaro Esposito, Vincenzo Manzi
Summary: The number of elite female athletes suspending competitive athletics for pregnancy and childbirth is increasing significantly. The objective of this manuscript is to investigate in female soccer players the timing of return to running and its main postpartum complications. For this review, we searched the PubMed indexed bibliographic database and the football-specific literature for studies relevant to answering the merits of 2 research questions: A) time to return to running postpartum; B) main complications related to return to running postpartum? There is an insufficient literature, identified for the criteria for inclusion, in female soccer players, of points A-B preset in the methods. The literature shows how: A) return to running is recommended, in general, between 6 to 12 weeks after clinical and functional evaluation and on the mode of delivery (vaginal or cesarean birth); B) the major complications are related to: 1) pelvic floor dysfunctional pictures; 2) and stress urinary incontinence. The current research found in the indexed literature underscores knowledge gaps related to the research objectives. There is a lack of consistent evidence-based guidelines for a safe return to running after childbirth. Pelvic floor rehabilitation finds indications through guidelines in the pre and postpartum phases. This finds a primary prescription to reduce the incidence of stress urinary incontinence and pelvic girdle dysfunction.

18 Monitoring Seasonal Changes in Body Composition and Physical Performance in Elite Female Soccer Players

Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2026 Apr 1;40(4):e425-e431. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005399. Epub 2026 Mar 5.
Authors: Santiago Zabaloy, Rodrigo Villaseca-Vicuña, Tomás T Freitas, Irineu Loturco
Summary: This study aimed to investigate seasonal changes in body composition and physical performance in elite female soccer players. Thirty-two professional players (age: 26 ± 4 years) from the same club were assessed at 3 time points (TPs): preseason (TP1), early in the season (TP2), and midseason (TP3). For approximately 6 months, players completed anthropometric and body composition assessments, and physical tests including the countermovement jump (CMJ), squat 1 repetition maximum (squat 1RM), 10-m sprint, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIR1). Mean propulsive velocity (MPV) during the squat exercise was assessed at absolute loads of 30 and 40 kg. Significant and gradual improvements were observed in ∑6 skinfolds, fat mass percentage, and muscle mass percentage (p < 0.02). Mean propulsive velocity at 30 and 40 kg increased significantly throughout the season (p < 0.039), while 1RM and relative strength remained stable. Countermovement jump, 10-m sprint, and YYIR1 performance improved significantly from TP1 to TP3 (p < 0.003), with YYIR1 showing very large gains (≈25%). These adaptations occurred despite a congested competition schedule, with players participating in 18 matches across the study period. Overall, the findings indicate that a multicomponent training program combining resistance, power, speed, and endurance sessions can improve body composition, neuromuscular qualities, and endurance performance during the early and midseason stages in professional female soccer players. The results provide novel insights into performance monitoring in female soccer and highlight the importance of integrating diverse physical training strategies throughout the competitive season.

19 The Determinants of Deceleration and Reacceleration Abilities in Pro-Agility Test in Adolescent Soccer Players

Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2026 Apr 1;40(4):439-450. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005333.
Authors: Hayato Nakamura, Daichi Yamashita, Daichi Nishiumi, Naoto Nakaichi, Norikazu Hirose
Summary: This study investigated how deceleration and reacceleration abilities in a Pro-Agility test are influenced by kinematic, physical, and maturation factors in male adolescent soccer players. Seventy-one soccer players performed jump tests (standing long jump, countermovement jump, squat jump) and a Pro-Agility test. Kinetic variables during countermovement and squat jumps were obtained using dual force plates, and 3-dimensional kinematic data from the Pro-Agility test were obtained using a markerless motion capture system. In the Pro-Agility test, the deceleration and acceleration phases were determined from the center-of-mass (COM) velocity and subdivided into early and late halves. The mean COM deceleration (Dec) and acceleration (Acc) were calculated in each phase and event. A linear mixed model was used to identify the variables predicting Dec and Acc. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Both first late Dec and second late Dec were associated with Dec during penultimate foot contact (β = 0.231 and β = 0.197, respectively) and COM height at the final foot contact (β = 5.431 and β = 2.910, respectively). Both second early Acc and third early Acc were associated with peak propulsive force in squat jump (β = 0.050 and β = 0.086, respectively). Second early Acc was associated with body height (β = 0.086), and third early Acc was associated with chronological age (β = 0.086), but not with deceleration abilities. These findings highlight the importance of tailoring training strategies to enhance overall change-of-direction performance.

20 High-speed running and injury risk in soccer: a systematic review

Reference: Front Public Health. 2026 Mar 6:14:1798241. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1798241. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Yongli Xie, Xiaofei Cai
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13002794/pdf/fpubh-14-1798241.pdf
Summary: High-speed running (HSR) and sprint exposure are monitored in soccer, but associations with injury are uncertain. The aim was to synthesis evidence on associations between HSR exposure and injury risk/occurrence, and to explore heterogeneity. PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were searched. No date or language restrictions were applied. Eligibility criteria included observational studies in soccer quantifying training and/or match HSR/sprinting using microtechnology and reporting extractable associations with injury outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed with QUIPS. Narrative synthesis was undertaken without meta-analysis. From 3,824 records, 22 studies were included. Most were professional/elite and used GPS with absolute speed thresholds. Outcomes mainly involved time-loss or non-contact soft-tissue injuries. Across studies using relative change measures (e.g., acute:chronic contrasts or injury-week vs. control comparisons), short-horizon increases or disproportionate HSR/sprint exposure relative to recent history more often aligned with higher injury risk. In contrast, studies analyzing absolute weekly HSR volume more frequently reported negligible or inconsistent associations within typical exposure ranges, with no reproducible dose threshold emerging. Overall risk of bias was high in 20/22 studies. Sudden increases in HSR/sprint-related load may be associated with injury, but heterogeneity and bias limit certainty and preclude definitive thresholds.

21 Weekly Heart Rate Variability and Training Zone Analysis in U-15 Soccer Players: The Predictive Value of Combined Warm-up Protocols for Optimizing Cardiovascular Monitoring

Reference: Adv Biomed Res. 2026 Feb 27:15:20. doi: 10.4103/abr.abr_388_25. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Hamzeh Zarei, Khosro Jalali Dehkordi, Farzaneh Taghian, Filipe Manuel Clemente
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13004313/pdf/ABR-15-20.pdf
Summary: Warm-up protocols play a crucial role in optimizing athletic performance and cardiovascular readiness in youth soccer players. This study aimed to compare the effects of six warm-up strategies on heart rate (HR) parameters and exertion levels in under-15 (U-15) soccer athletes. Seventy-two male participants were randomly (concealed participant allocation) assigned to six groups: Dynamic Warm-up (DWU), Analytical Warm-up (AWU), Analytical + Dynamic Warm-up (ADWU), Small-Sided Games Warm-up (SSGWU), Integrated Warm-up (IWU), and Small-Sided Games + Integrated Warm-up (SIWU). This randomized parallel study lasted 8 weeks, with pre- and post-tests measuring resting HR, maximal HR (MHR), average HR (AHR), RR intervals, HR variability (HRV), session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE), and HR zone distributions. Significant improvements (P < 0.001) were observed in resting, maximum, and average heart rates, RR intervals, HRV, and session RPE in most groups, especially DWU, SSGWU, and SIWU, indicating better cardiovascular function and reduced exertion. HR zone analysis showed significant shifts in all zones for IWU and SIWU (P < 0.001). Mixed repeated measures analysis of variance revealed significant between-group differences in post-test values for maximum HR, RR intervals, HRV, and sRPE change scores (P < 0.05). These findings highlight the differential impact of warm-up protocols on cardiovascular outcomes and perceived exertion. Integrated and small-sided games warm-ups showed superior benefits, suggesting their incorporation into youth soccer training could optimize physiological preparedness and performance.

22 Changes in lower-limb neuromuscular performance from pre-season to the end of the early competitive period in elite male professional soccer players

Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2026 Mar 5:8:1722539. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2026.1722539. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Rodrigo Ferrari, William Borges da Silva, Leandro de Oliveira Carpes, Cíntia Lazzari, Anderson Donelli Silveira
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12999573/pdf/fspor-08-1722539.pdf
Summary: The increasing compression of the pre-season period due to congested calendars may induce significant neuromuscular fatigue, potentially compromising player readiness for competition. This study aimed to investigate the variation in neuromuscular performance in elite professional Brazilian male soccer players throughout the pre-season and at the end of the first competition of the year. Thirteen outfield soccer players (3 defenders, 5 midfielders and 5 forwards) from a single Brazilian first-division team were included in the study. Neuromuscular performance was evaluated using a comprehensive set of countermovement jump (CMJ) variables and isometric hip adduction/abduction strength at three time points: the start of the pre-season (T1), the end of the pre-season (T2), and following the end of first competition of the season (T3). In T2, CMJ values significantly decreased compared to T1 for jump height, RSI modified, take-off peak force, peak power, and concentric peak velocity (p < 0.05). In T3, peak power and concentric peak velocity remained reduced, while eccentric duration increased compared to T1 (p < 0.05). Regarding hip strength, no significant changes were observed for adduction or abduction peak forces across the assessed time points (p > 0.05), indicating a maintenance of isometric strength levels. The findings indicate that an intensive and short pre-season induced a state of neuromuscular fatigue in elite soccer players, and the subsequent competitive period resulted in an incomplete recovery for most of the CMJ neuromuscular variables.