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 Preventative strategies for non-contact lower limb injuries among male football players: A scoping review
Reference: S Afr J Physiother. 2026 May 13;82(1):2281. doi: 10.4102/sajp.v82i1.2281. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Siyabonga H Kunene, Molebogeng B Mmitsi
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13243745/pdf/SAJP-82-2281.pdf
Summary: Football is a complex team sport with high physical, tactical and technical demands, exposing players to a high risk of both contact and non-contact injuries. The aim was to map the range of preventative strategies used to reduce non-contact lower limb injuries among male footballers. Our study was conducted as a scoping review. The review was guided in five stages: (1) defining the research question; (2) identifying relevant studies; (3) selecting the topic; (4) charting and collecting data; and (5) summarising and reporting the results. The research was guided by the population, concept, context framework, focusing on professional and amateur male soccer players across various age groups. It examined a range of preventative strategies targeting non-contact lower limb injuries, recognising their critical role in reducing player exclusion because of injury. The literature search was conducted across eight electronic databases: PUBMED, CINAHL, PEDro, EBSCOhost, Cochrane Library, SPORTDiscus, Scopus and ScienceDirect. Twenty-five (out of 617) studies met the inclusion criteria, and their outcomes have been presented. Outcomes revealed various injury inhibition programmes implemented for non-contact lower limb injuries among male footballers, which were: Nordic hamstring exercises, Copenhagen adduction exercise, muscle strengthening, stretching exercises, ankle taping, FIFA 11, FIFA 11+ warm-up programme, preseason preparation, running mechanics, high chronic training loads, bounding exercises and a multicomponent exercise programme. The study identified a range of preventative strategies commonly employed to reduce the risk of non-contact lower limb injuries among male football players. Considering the varying dynamics across teams and competitive levels, these strategies can serve as a valuable framework for developing injury prevention programmes.
#2 The impact of mental fatigue on drop landing injury risk and lower limb asymmetry in elite collegiate american football players
Reference: Sci Rep. 2026 Jun 9;16(1):17855. doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-50165-2.
Authors: Zilong Wang, Jie Lu, Huizi Cui, Lingyue Meng, Jiawei Zheng, Wensheng Miao, Jinbiao Lin, Xiangdong Wang
Download link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-50165-2.pdf
Summary: This study investigated the impact of mental fatigue on lower limb biomechanics and bilateral asymmetry during drop landings in elite collegiate American football players to assess injury risk implications. Twelve elite male players performed bilateral drop landings before and after a 45-minute Stroop task. Data were analyzed using a 2 × 2 repeated-measures ANOVA. Irrespective of mental fatigue, the dominant limb exhibited significantly smaller hip flexion, larger peak vertical ground reaction force, and longer time to vertical ground reaction force peak compared to the non-dominant limb. Following mental fatigue, knee flexion range of motion and peak vertical ground reaction force increased bilaterally, and the non-dominant limb specifically demonstrated greater knee varus/valgus range of motion compared to baseline. While the symmetry index indicated baseline asymmetry, mental fatigue exerted no significant effect on global symmetry index. We conclude that mental fatigue impairs landing mechanics through limb-specific constraints rather than systemic symmetry collapse. Because localized compensatory mechanisms can preserve the overall symmetry index, relying solely on global symmetry metrics may mask underlying, joint-specific injury risks under mental fatigue. Consequently, athletic screening should prioritize the sensorimotor resilience of the non-dominant limb.
#3 Comparison of visual and electronic assessments of active cervical range of motion in university varsity level American football players: a three-point cohort study
Reference: J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2026 Jul:47:533-541. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2026.05.005. Epub 2026 May 8.
Authors: Alexandra Bergeron, Catherine Daneau, Reka Sivasubramaniyam, Maée Camara, Louis De Beaumont, Mathieu Lanoue, Laurie-Ann Corbin-Berrigan , Isabelle Pagé
Download link: https://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/S1360-8592(26)00085-9/fulltext
Summary: Neck pain is common in contact sports such as football, where rapid and accurate cervical range of motion (ROM) assessment is essential. Electronic goniometers provide reliable measurements but are impractical in field settings, leading clinicians to rely on visual estimation. The accuracy of this method and its improvement with repeated exposure remain unclear. To evaluate the agreement (trueness) between subjective visual assessments of active cervical range of motion and measurements obtained using an electronic goniometer, and to determine whether repeated assessments improve agreement over time. A three-time-point cohort study was conducted between August and December 2023 in male varsity-level American football players. At each time point, participants completed questionnaires on neck pain and disability and performed active cervical ROM (flexion, extension, side bending, rotation) assessed both subjectively and objectively. Agreement between subjective and objective evaluations was generally poor to moderate, with flexion and extension showing the lowest concordance. Repeated-measures ANOVA, assessing improvement due to exposition revealed no significant changes for flexion, extension, or rotations (p > 0.05). Significant improvements occurred for right side bending (p = 0.004) and left side bending (p < 0.001), with preseason-to-postseason differences of -0.44° and -1.64°, respectively, suggesting a limited learning effect for lateral movements. Subjective cervical ROM assessment varies by movement plane. Although repeated exposure improves trueness, subjective measures should be interpreted cautiously, and objective tools remain preferable for precise evaluation.
#4 Determination of the causes of stampedes, deaths and injuries in football stadiums
Reference: Am J Disaster Med. 2026;21(1):43-63. doi: 10.5055/ajdm.0528.
Authors: Fulya Sağ Kara, Gül Özlem Yıldırım
Download link: https://wmpllc.org/ojs/index.php/ajdm/article/view/4013
Summary: This study aims to identify the primary causes of crowd-induced stampedes in football stadiums and the factors underlying the associated fatalities and injuries. A quantitative research design using a semistructured questionnaire was employed. The study population consisted of 2,750 disaster-trained professionals actively working in disaster-related fields, with a final sample of 341 participants. Data on perceptions of stampede causes and related health outcomes were collected online via Google Forms® between September 2023 and July 2024. Digital informed consent was obtained, and safeguards were implemented to prevent duplicate responses. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS 21. Participants identified several key causes of stampedes in football stadiums, including ticket overselling, inadequate physical -infrastructureeg, insufficient emergency exits and locked gatesfanatic and hooligan behaviors, lack of public awareness and training, excessive crowd density, and inappropriate actions by security forces, eg, tear gas use. Primary causes of fatalities and injuries were reported as trauma, eg, falls and crushing; respiratory emergencies, eg, suffocation and asphyxia; substance and alcohol use; cardiac events, eg, heart attacks; psychological distress, eg, panic and aggression; and neurological factors. Stampede incidents in football stadiums arise from a combination of environmental, organizational, and behavioral factors. Prevention and mitigation require a comprehensive risk management strategy integrating infrastructure improvements, effective crowd control, staff training, and public education. These findings underscore the need for multidisciplinary research and evidence-based policies to enhance safety at large sporting events.
#5 From plan to practice: Development, awareness, and implementation of sports injury and illness risk management plans in a professional male football setting
Reference: J Sci Med Sport. 2026 May 13:S1440-2440(26)00193-3. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2026.05.005. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Bahar Hassanmirzaei, Montassar Tabben, Yorck Olaf Schumacher, Alaaeddine Rahali, Hicham Moutaouakkil, Mokhtar Chabbane, Mourad Mokrani, Zied Ellouze, Roald Bahr
Download link: https://www.jsams.org/article/S1440-2440(26)00193-3/fulltext
Summary: The aim was to examine the development, stakeholder involvement, and implementation of risk management plans in professional football clubs in Qatar during the 2022-2023 season, with a focus on creation, team awareness, and completion of mitigation tasks. All 18 professional football clubs were invited to participate. Data were collected during face-to-face meetings with each team’s representatives using a standardized questionnaire addressing stakeholder involvement, awareness of the risk management plan within the team, task assignment, and implementation. A total of 324 mitigation tasks were reviewed. Implementation was rated using a six-point Likert scale. Sixteen clubs participated in the study. Across the clubs, 331 risk management plan tasks were identified, of which 324 were evaluated for implementation. RMP development was primarily undertaken by team doctors, physiotherapists, and fitness coaches, with no involvement from managers or players. Implementation levels were highest when tasks were assigned to medical staff or mixed groups that included at least one medical team member. Team-related tasks had higher implementation levels than season-related tasks (p = 0.024), while risk priority did not had an affect on the implementation levels. In professional football clubs, the presence of medical personnel among the responsible staff was a key determinant of the higher implementation rates for mitigation tasks. Neither the risk category nor the stated priority level predicted implementation. These findings provide empirical insight into how structured risk management is operationalized in elite football and underscore the central role of medical and fitness staff in executing injury and illness prevention.
#6 Unanticipated Visual Stimulus Negatively Affects Change of Direction Performance and Biomechanical Patterns in Female Football Players
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2026 Jun 8. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005557. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Aarón Miralles-Iborra, Thomas Dos’Santos, Jose L L Elvira, Jesús Vera-Cartagena, Juan Del Coso, Víctor Moreno-Pérez
Summary: The aim of this study was to explore the effect of anticipation on performance and kinematic patterns during change of direction (COD) in female football players. Thirty-two female amateur football players (mean ± SD for age: 19.4 ± 1.4 years; height: 1.64 ± 0.10 m; body mass: 58.5 ± 9.0 kg) performed a 90° COD during unanticipated (i.e., reactive light stimulus) and anticipated conditions (i.e., preplanned). A 2-D kinematic analysis and the Cutting Movement Assessment Score (CMAS) were used to assess the movement quality of the players in both conditions. Both conditions were compared through paired t test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test and their respective effect size Cohen’s d (d) and rank biserial correlation coefficient (rb). Players demonstrated longer COD times (p < 0.001; d = 1.16-1.33) and higher CMAS scores (p ≤ 0.002; rb = 0.69-0.85) during the unanticipated condition compared with anticipated condition. Several COD biomechanical patterns were modified in the unanticipated condition, such as increased lateral trunk flexion toward the stance leg (p ≤ 0.011; d = 0.51-0.70), reduced knee frontal plane projection angle at initial contact (p ≤ 0.002; d = -0.72 to -0.62), increased knee flexion at initial (p = 0.008; d = 0.51) and final contact (p = 0.001; d = 0.63), and increased lateral leg plant distance (p ≤ 0.004; rb = 0.67-0.93). Female football players exhibited impaired performance (i.e., test time) and kinematic changes in the unanticipated COD, particularly in the frontal plane of motion, and could indicate high-risk movement patterns.
#7 The Impact of Football Boot Design on Lower Limb Injury Risk: A Systematic Review
Reference: Sports Med Open. 2026 Jun 8;12(1):65. doi: 10.1186/s40798-026-01037-6.
Authors: Fan Yang, Jingxuan Huang, Qiang Wei, Liang Jiang, Dong Liang
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13246976/pdf/40798_2026_Article_1037.pdf
Summary: Football boots-serving as the critical interface between the player and the playing surface-play a decisive role in modulating the risk of noncontact lowerlimb injuries. Although numerous studies have investigated the effects of stud configuration, soleplate stiffness, and boot-foot-surface interaction on lowerlimb biomechanics, an integrated evaluation of their injury implications remains lacking. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a systematic search (2005-2025) was conducted across Elsevier, EBSCO, Web of Science, PubMed Central, and Footwear Science. Thirtytwo studies met the inclusion criteria after dualreviewer screening, and methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. Evidence was triangulated to identify biomechanical mechanisms underpinning injury risk as influenced by boot design. Five principal findings emerged: 1. Stud pattern governs rotational traction. Screw-in (Soft Ground (SG)) and bladed studs generate supra-physiological rotational torque on both natural and artificial turf, producing a „foot-lock“ phenomenon that elevates the incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, ankle sprain, and metatarsal stress fracture. 2. Sole-plate stiffness shows a U-shaped relationship with injury risk. Excessive rigidity restricts first-ray dorsiflexion and precipitates focal plantar pressures, whereas excessive compliance amplifies ankle dorsiflexion/inversion and knee-valgus angles, thereby increasing ACL loading. 3. Boot-foot-surface mismatch (undersized lasts, stud-surface incompatibility, sex-specific traction overload) redistributes plantar pressure and alters joint moment arms, fostering over-use injuries. 4. Collar height augments ankle stability but induces compensatory knee torsion, shifting the failure locus proximally and raising the likelihood of knee-ligament trauma. 5. High-risk mechanical loading often occurs below athletes‘ perceptual thresholds, suggesting that asymptomatic microdamage may accumulate over time. Collectively, footballboot architecture represents a modifiable determinant of noncontact lowerlimb injury. Establishing standardized testing frameworks that calibrate stud geometry, soleplate stiffness, and last morphology-while accounting for surface type, sex, and playing level-will enable optimization of highperformance yet lowinjury boot design.
#8 Effectiveness of sports injury prevention programs for adolescent and children football players: a meta-analysis and systematic review
Reference: PeerJ. 2026 Jun 1:14:e21319. doi: 10.7717/peerj.21319. eCollection 2026.
Authors: HongYu Yang, Xianming Ding, Yue Fan, Xiao Wang, Jia Hui Li
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13235686/pdf/peerj-14-21319.pdf
Summary: Children and adolescent football players are at increased risk of sports-related injuries due to ongoing physical and neuromuscular development. Although various injury prevention programs have been proposed, evidence regarding their effectiveness in these populations remains limited. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of structured injury prevention programs in reducing overall and site-specific injury incidence among youth football players. A systematic search of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted across Cochrane Library, PubMed, EBSCO, Embase, and Web of Science. Eligible studies included football players aged 3-18 years receiving structured injury prevention interventions. The primary outcome was overall injury incidence, and secondary outcomes included lower-limb, knee, ankle, muscle, hip/groin, contact, and non-contact injuries. Pooled estimates were calculated as incidence rate ratios (IRRs) based on exposure hours. Nine RCTs involving 16,636 participants and 1,248,381 exposure hours were included. Injury prevention programs significantly reduced overall injury incidence (IRR = 0.62, 95.0% CI [0.49-0.78]; I 2 = 80.0%). Significant reductions were also observed for lower-limb (IRR = 0.68), knee (IRR = 0.67), and ankle injuries (IRR = 0.72). Muscle (IRR = 0.62) and hip/groin injuries (IRR = 0.51) showed lower incidence rates, although the latter was not statistically significant. Reductions were also observed for contact (IRR = 0.71) and non-contact injuries (IRR = 0.73). Subgroup analysis indicated a stronger effect among children (IRR = 0.54) compared with adolescents (IRR = 0.68). Injury prevention programs are associated with reduced overall and several site-specific injury risks in youth football players. However, evidence for less frequently reported outcomes remains limited and should be interpreted cautiously. Further high-quality, long-term trials are needed to improve the precision of these findings.
#9 Effects of Various Exercise Interventions on Sprint Performance and Jump Height in Soccer Players: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Reference: J Sports Sci Med. 2026 Jun 1;25(2):405-445. doi: 10.52082/jssm.2026.405. eCollection 2026 Jun.
Authors: Yang Wang, Muyan Zhang, Zixuan Luo
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13274447/pdf/jssm-25-405.pdf
Summary: To evaluate and compare the effects of six exercise interventions on sprint performance and vertical jump height in soccer players using a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA). A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published from January 2000 to 30 September 2025. Thirty-one eligible studies were included, covering Traditional Strength Training, Plyometric Jump Training, Speed Training, Endurance Training, Flexibility Training, and Regular Training. A frequentist random-effects network meta-analysis was conducted. Outcomes were pre-specified hierarchically, with sprint performance and vertical jump height as co-primary outcomes and COD and 1RM as secondary outcomes; secondary outcomes were interpreted as supportive rather than primary evidence. Traditional Strength Training was most effective for 5-m sprint performance (SUCRA = 99.8%; MD = -0.09 s, 95% CI: -0.11 to -0.07), 20-m sprint performance (SUCRA = 89.9%; MD = -0.13 s, 95% CI: -0.20 to -0.06), and squat jump height (SUCRA = 86.2%; MD = 4.40 cm, 95% CI: 2.07 to 6.74). For the 30-m sprint, Speed Training ranked highest by SUCRA (74.2%), but the comparison with Regular Training was not statistically significant (MD = -0.16 s, 95% CI: -0.34 to 0.01). For the 40-m sprint, no intervention showed a statistically significant advantage over Regular Training. Among the pre-specified co-primary outcomes, Traditional Strength Training appears to provide the most consistent benefits for short-sprint acceleration (5-20 m) and vertical jump performance in soccer players. Evidence for 30-40 m sprint performance was uncertain, and secondary outcomes (COD and 1RM) should be interpreted as supportive rather than as the primary basis for overall effectiveness claims. These findings support prioritizing strength-oriented training when short-sprint acceleration and vertical jump performance are key goals; however, the implications should be interpreted cautiously because certainty varied across comparisons and residual uncertainty remains. The protocol for this systematic review was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024608868).
#10 Comparative Effects of Sand- and Grass-Based Repeated-Sprint Training on Aerobic and Anaerobic Performance in Soccer Players
Reference: J Sports Sci Med. 2026 Jun 1;25(2):327-338. doi: 10.52082/jssm.2026.327. eCollection 2026 Jun.
Authors: Hao Yan, Haiting Zhai, Tingting Wang, Duchun Wang, Hongwen Wei
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13274441/pdf/jssm-25-327.pdf
Summary: This randomized controlled trial examined whether repeated-sprint training (RST) performed on sand or grass induces different adaptations in collegiate soccer players. Forty-two male players were randomly assigned to a sand-RST group (SAND, n = 14), a grass-RST group (GRASS, n = 14), or a control group (CON, n = 14). SAND and GRASS performed repeated-sprint training during two scheduled training sessions per week for six weeks, whereas CON completed standard technical soccer training of equivalent duration during the same two weekly sessions. All groups continued the same regular team training program, with the intervention delivered within two scheduled weekly sessions. Before and after the intervention, participants completed vertical jump tests including squat jump and countermovement jump, a running based anaerobic sprint test with peak, mean, and minimum power and fatigue index, and a graded treadmill test providing VO2max, anaerobic threshold, and running economy. Baseline-adjusted analyses were conducted to examine between-group differences (ANCOVA for outcomes meeting model assumptions; mixed-design ANOVA when assumptions were violated). These analyses showed significant Group by Time interactions for all jump and running based sprint variables and for VO2max and anaerobic threshold (p < 0.01), whereas the interaction for running economy was not significant (p = 0.15). Compared with GRASS, SAND showed greater improvements in squat jump (p < 0.01), mean power (p = 0.03), minimum power (p < 0.01), and fatigue index (p < 0.01). Aerobic adaptations were comparable between sand and grass, and no clear surface specific advantage was observed for running economy. In conclusion, implementing RST within scheduled team sessions improved jump performance, repeated-sprint performance indices, and aerobic fitness in collegiate soccer players, while sand-based training may provide greater benefits for squat jump and selected outcomes related to repeated-sprint fatigue resistance.
#11 The Effect of Bio-Banding On Talent Identification in Youth Soccer: A Systematic Review
Reference: J Sports Sci Med. 2026 Jun 1;25(2):446-458. doi: 10.52082/jssm.2026.446. eCollection 2026 Jun.
Authors: Chaojie Han, Nan Luo, Zhiwei Zhao, Dui Mou
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13274445/pdf/jssm-25-446.pdf
Summary: Maturity-related selection bias is prevalent in youth soccer, and bio-banding has been proposed as a practical approach to promote fairer competition and support talent identification. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the evidence base and describe the characteristics of bio-banding competition formats used in youth soccer for talent identification and player development. Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, Scopus, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Studies were eligible if they examined bio-banding competition formats and reported outcomes related to talent identification or player development. Study quality was assessed using the QualSyst checklist. Thirteen studies involving 861 youth players met the eligibility criteria. While all studies were rated as having good overall methodological quality (mean QualSyst score = 0.85), common limitations included lack of randomization, blinding, and control for confounding variables. Across studies, bio-banding was associated with a range of reported effects spanning physiological, psychological, technical, and tactical performance outcomes. The included literature was predominantly characterized by small-sided games compared against chronological-age or mixed-maturity groupings. A broad set of implementation characteristics was identified, providing an initial basis to inform future refinement and optimization of bio-banding formats. However, substantial inconsistency was evident in maturation assessment approaches, banding thresholds, competition rules, and outcome reporting, which limited cross-study comparability. Bio-banding can serve as a supplementary method to alter the competitive environment and reveal different player behaviors in youth soccer. However, the current evidence base relies heavily on short-term match responses and proxy outcomes rather than direct evidence of improved selection accuracy or long-term development. Heterogeneity in assessment methods and reporting currently constrains the strength and comparability of the evidence. Further high-quality research using more consistent maturation assessment, banding criteria, competition rules, and standardized outcome reporting is needed to strengthen the evidence base and guide implementation.
#12 Traumatic Brain Injury in an Elite Adolescent Soccer Goalkeeper: A Case Report
Reference: Cureus. 2026 May 18;18(5):e109088. doi: 10.7759/cureus.109088. eCollection 2026 May.
Authors: Adam Drummond, Hiren Patel, Richard Jackson, William Carlos
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13273783/pdf/cureus-0018-00000109088.pdf
Summary: This case describes an 18-year-old English male professional soccer goalkeeper who sustained a significant head injury during training with transient loss of consciousness and seizure-like posturing exhibited on the field of play. Initial CT imaging in the emergency department demonstrated a focal intracranial haemorrhage within the septum pellucidum. Subsequent MRI identified multiple microhaemorrhages, predominantly within the right centrum semiovale, consistent with traumatic microhaemorrhages and possible underlying axonal injury. The player was admitted for hospital observation for four days. On discharge, he underwent an initial management period of prolonged rest for six weeks. A structured graduated return to sport programme was completed, incorporating serial neurocognitive assessment and repeat neuroimaging to guide progression. In the absence of definitive return to play guidance for structural brain injury, a conservative, clinically reasoned, specialist multidisciplinary team approach was adopted. The athlete returned to pre-injury competition level six months after injury without recurrence of symptoms. This case exemplifies the importance of distinguishing concussion from structural traumatic brain injury (TBI) and highlights considerations for safe return-to-play decision-making in the absence of evidence-based guidelines.
#13 Interplay Between Postural Stability and Coordination in Female Soccer Players With Chronic Ankle Instability
Reference: Motor Control. 2026 Jun 18:1-18. doi: 10.1123/mc.2025-0126. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Shiki Takeuchi, Masaya Anan
Summary: This study investigated the effects of chronic ankle instability (CAI) on postural control following landing with an unanticipated task and on shank-rearfoot coordination during side-cutting in female soccer players. The association between postural stability and coordination patterns was investigated to identify shared control characteristics across tasks. Eighteen female soccer players were categorized into CAI (n = 10) and control (n = 8) groups. Participants performed 20-s single-leg stances and side-cutting following landing with an unanticipated task. Postural control during single-leg stance was quantified using the largest Lyapunov exponent of the mediolateral center of pressure. Shank-rearfoot coordination during side-cutting was analyzed using a modified vector-coding technique. The CAI group exhibited a significantly lower largest Lyapunov exponent of mediolateral center of pressure during single-leg stance (p = .043). During side-cutting, the CAI group demonstrated an increased proportion of in-phase with distal dominancy during the deceleration phase (p = .027). Within the CAI group, largest Lyapunov exponent was associated with coordination patterns, where a negative correlation with anti-phase with proximal dominancy and a positive correlation with in-phase with distal dominancy (r = -.680 and .648, respectively; p < .050) were observed. Female soccer players with CAI exhibit reduced adaptability to postural control following landing with an unanticipated task and diminished flexibility in shank-rearfoot coordination during sport-specific cutting. The observed association between static postural instability and altered dynamic coordination may reflect a reduced capacity to flexibly modulate control strategies in patients with CAI, which may be related to the risk of recurrent ankle sprains.
#14 Oral health in professional Slovak soccer players: Assessment of dental risks, subgingival microbiota and genetic influences
Reference: PLoS One. 2026 Jun 18;21(6):e0351544. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0351544. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Silvia Timkova, Veronika Martinska, Andrea Madarasova Geckova, Vladimir Elias, Michal Konecny, Peter Kizek
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13278445/pdf/pone.0351544.pdf
Summary: Recent studies reveal high rates of dental issues among professional soccer players, worsened by poor hygiene, frequent sport drinks consumption and limited preventive care. Busy schedules, frequent relocations and changing clubs further disrupt dental routines, impacting performance and well-being. Therefore, we decided to assess the oral health status of professional Slovak soccer players and address these critical concerns. We assessed the oral health of 51 male soccer players from two elite Slovak soccer clubs during 2023/2024 season. Data collection included two paper-based questionnaires and a clinical oral examination by dentists. Additionally, clinical laboratory data were collected from saliva to test for presence of periopathogenic bacteria and DNA polymorphisms. Although 92.2% had valid health insurance, 36% did not attend dental check-ups in the past year, indicating underutilization of preventive care. While 86.2% brushed their teeth more than twice daily, only 48% practiced interdental cleaning and 35.3% used mouthwash. A significant 83.7% consumed sports drinks high in sugar and acid, influencing oral health risks. Clinical examinations revealed that 86.3% had a moderate to high DMF index (mean decayed teeth: 3.8) and 54.9% exhibited gingivitis. Bacterial analyses showed 25.5-74.5% carried highly periopathogenic bacteria, indicating a high risk for periodontitis. Additionally, 15.7% of players exhibited presence of DNA polymorphisms associated with risk of periodontitis onset. This study reveals a gap in preventive dental care among professional soccer players, emphasizing the urgent need for integrated oral health strategies within sports programs.
#15 When Exploration Does Not Mean Creation: Rethinking the Link Between Movement Variability and Motor Creativity in Soccer
Reference: Percept Mot Skills. 2026 Jun 18:315125261461677. doi: 10.1177/00315125261461677. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Paulo Henrique Borges, Lucas Shoiti Carvalho Ueda, Gustavo Muniz Dos Santos et al.
Summary: This study investigated whether exploratory behavior affords the emergence of creative actions in small-sided games (SSGs) among youth soccer players. Forty-eight male outfield players Under 14, Under-15, and Under-16 from Brazilian club participated in GK4 vs. 4 GK protocol. Exploratory behavior was quantified using Global Positioning System (GPS)-derived metrics, including stretch index, spatial exploration index, and players‘ major range area. Creativity was evaluated through notational analysis, categorizing players‘ actions as fluency, versatility, originality, and attempts according to the Creative Behavior Assessment in Team Sports (CBATS) protocol. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was adopted to select the variables that represented the variance of exploratory behavior dimensions. Additionally, players were clustered into high and low exploratory behavior groups using Cluster Analysis. Afterwards, the effects of exploratory behavior and game position on creative measures were obtained through Generalized Linear Models (p < .05). The results indicated that exploratory behavior did not significantly increase creative actions across game positions (p > .05). However, a significant interaction (p = .04; η2 = 0.13) showed that defenders with higher exploratory behavior performed more unsuccessful non-standardized attempts (mean = 5.2 ± 1.1 vs. 3.4 ± 0.9). No significant effects were found for fluency (mean = 8.1 ± 2.3 actions), versatility (mean = 4.7 ± 1.6 actions), or originality (mean = 2.2 ± 0.9 actions), with all comparisons yielding non-significant results (p > .05). Findings suggest that while exploratory behavior does not universally enhance creative performance in SSGs, encouraging higher exploratory behavior in defenders may increase their engagement in offensive actions.
#16 Repeated small-sided games induce load-dependent changes in strength and neuromuscular indicators in U17 male soccer players
Reference: Res Sports Med. 2026 Jun 17:1-18. doi: 10.1080/15438627.2026.2669905. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Aleksandra Kisilewicz, Małgorzata Smoter, Robert Trybulski
Summary: We quantified set-by-set acceleration – deceleration exposure during repeated 2v2 small-sided games (SSGs), assessed acute pre – post changes in selected neuromuscular and strength markers, and tested load – response associations. Ninety players completed 8 × 2-min 2v2 bouts with 2-min passive recovery. Total and high-intensity accelerations (Acc)/decelerations (Dec) were derived per set; pre – post testing assessed quadriceps concentric and hamstring eccentric peak torque (60°·s-1), functional H/Q (H_ecc/Q_con), relative leg stiffness (RLS), and reactive strength index (RSI). Total Dec varied across sets (F(7,623)=3.58, p < 0.001) and declined (slope = -0.295 counts·set-1, p < 0.001); high-intensity Dec also varied across sets (F(7,623)=3.67, p < 0.001). Post-SSG, hamstring eccentric torque decreased (Δ = -8.637 N·m; dz = -1.74; p < 0.001), functional H/Q decreased (Δ = -0.028; dz = -1.03; p < 0.001), and RLS decreased (Δ = -2.363 kN·m-1; dz = -2.93; p < 0.001), while RSI increased (Δ = 0.032; dz = 2.37; p < 0.001). In simultaneous multivariable models, accumulated high-intensity Dec independently predicted greater RLS reductions (β = -0.416, p < 0.001; adj R2 = 0.252) . In conclusion, repeated 2v2 SSGs induce acute changes in selected neuromuscular and strength measures, and accumulated high-intensity braking and propulsion loads best explain these acute neuromuscular shifts.
#17 In- and Out-of-Possession Running and Technical-Tactical Performance in Soccer
Reference: Res Q Exerc Sport. 2026 Jun 17:1-13. doi: 10.1080/02701367.2026.2674969. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Norbert Banoocy, Daniel López-López, Domingo Jesús Ramos-Campo, Miguel Ángel Saavedra-García, Hadi Nobari
Summary: This study derived composite indices of attacking and defensive team performance, quantified how in-possession (IP) and out-of-possession (OP) running metrics related to these indices, and assessed contextual effects. 1,346 team-match observations from male teams competing in the Danish Superliga, Denmark’s top-tier professional football league, across 3.5 seasons were analyzed using Second Spectrum tracking and Wyscout event data. Principal component analysis generated Attacking and Defensive Performance Indices. Linear mixed-effects models tested associations between phase-specific running metrics and the indices, with team as a random intercept and match result and location as covariates. XGBoost models with SHAP assessed feature importance. Attacking performance was most strongly associated with IP total distance. After adjustment for IP movement volume, IP high-speed running and IP sprint distance showed conditional associations. OP total distance was negatively associated with both indices. Defensive performance was positively associated with OP high-speed running and IP high-intensity run count but negatively associated with IP sprint distance and OP total distance. An OP sprint distance × location interaction indicated that higher OP sprint distance related to lower defensive performance mainly in away matches. Match result showed small independent effects. XGBoost showed strong predictive accuracy for attacking (held-out R2 = 0.765) and moderate predictive accuracy for defensive performance (held-out R2 = 0.399), with SHAP confirming IP and OP total distance as dominant predictors. Team performance is closely linked to phase-specific running behavior. Movement volume during possession was the clearest correlate of attacking output, whereas defensive performance reflected lower OP workload and greater high-speed defensive activity.
#18 Disability Risk for Male Professional Soccer Players: A Question of Age? A New Method Based on Transfermarkt®’s Collaborative Data
Reference: J Insur Med. 2026 Jun 15;53(2):210-216. doi: 10.17849/insm-53-2-1-7.1C.
Authors: Antoine Moll, Denis Charles, Zeynep Kaya, Manuel Plisson, Julien Tomas, Irene Merk, Viet Chi Tran, Thierry Jeantheau, Pierre Sabouret
Download link: https://jim.kglmeridian.com/meridian/jim/published/rest/pdf-watermark/v1/journals/insm/53/2/article-p210.pdf/watermark-pdf/
Summary: The soccer industry generates billions in revenue, largely from matchday sales, commercial activities, and television rights. A significant portion of club revenues are spent on player wages making their availability for games and training economically vital. Any period of injury-related absence functions as a form of temporary disability, creating significant financial exposure for teams, insurers, and reinsurers. Preventing injuries is crucial for soccer clubs to mitigate financial and sports risks associated with player unavailability. Transfermarkt® database has been utilized to develop an accurate method to estimate the incidence of injuries among male soccer players. To propose the most appropriate preventive measures, medical teams of soccer clubs should consider other risk factors than age, such as the history of injuries and the player’s position in the field. This new model offers a practical framework for insurers, reinsurers, and club medical teams to better quantify disability risk, refine prevention strategies, and improve the prediction of injury-related downtime.
#19 Analysis of hip rotation ROM and strength in amateur soccer players: a cross-sectional study
Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2026 Jun 1:8:1837082. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2026.1837082. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Maria Figueroa-Mayordomo, Josep C Benítez-Martínez, Joaquín Mas-Rivas, Javier González-Rosalén
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13267181/pdf/fspor-08-1837082.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to examine variations in hip rotation range of motion (ROM) and strength when measured at 90° or 0° hip flexion in amateur soccer players, and to assess whether a standardized measurement protocol can be established. Additionally, it assessed the impact of normalizing strength values by body mass and lower leg length, and whether playing position affects hip rotator ROM and strength. A total of 56 amateur soccer players from the Valencian region were tested for maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and ROM of hip rotator muscles, measured at both 0° and 90° hip flexion. ROM was measured using a digital inclinometer and strength was assessed using a handheld dynamometer. Statistical analyses included paired samples t-tests, effect size calculations, Pearson’s correlation analysis, and one-way ANOVA to examine variations across playing positions. Significant differences were found in hip internal rotation (IR) ROM at 90° vs. 0° flexion for both right and left hips (p = 0.001 and 0.011, respectively). However, the magnitude of these differences was limited, with higher ROM values at 90°, while external rotation (ER) differences were not significant. Strength measurements showed significant increases at 90° compared with 0° for IR and ER in both right and left hips (IR: p < 0.001; ER: p < 0.001 and 0.005, respectively). Normalized strength values also revealed significant differences for both variables across angles (p < 0.001-0.005). No significant differences were found between ROM and strength values when comparing playing positions. Findings support assessing strength in both positions, whereas ROM differences between positions were of limited magnitude and uncertain clinical relevance. These findings underscore the importance of context-specific assessment protocols. Normalizing strength values may not be necessary in this homogeneous population. No position-dependent differences in hip rotator ROM or strength were detected in this sample, suggesting that screening or normative values may not need to be position-specific for amateur male soccer players.
#20 Preseason Passive Torque Asymmetries in Soccer Players with Hamstring Strain Injury
Reference: Int J Sports Med. 2026 Jun 16. doi: 10.1055/a-2896-9829. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Kosuke Takeuchi, Kazuhiro Sakamoto, Mitsuo Neya, Masatoshi Nakamura, Ryota Fukata, Takeshi Komatsu
Summary: The purpose of this study was to investigate preseason differences in range of motion and passive torque within (injured and non-injured leg) and between (injured and non-injured groups) collegiate soccer players who did and did not sustain hamstring strain injuries. Collegiate male soccer players (n = 108) participated in this study. Range of motion (straight leg raising and passive knee extension) and passive torque were assessed at the beginning of the preseason. Hamstring strain injuries were defined as any acute posterior thigh pain that occurred in non-contact situations, resulting in the immediate cessation of exercise. Eighty-four players were included in the analysis, and 10 players suffered hamstring strain injuries. There were no significant within-group or between-group differences in the range of motion. There was a significant difference in the passive torque between injured and non-injured legs (p = 0.04). Between-group comparisons of asymmetry revealed no significant differences in range of motion, whereas passive torque asymmetry was significantly greater in the injured group (p < 0.01). The results suggested that preseason passive torque asymmetry may be a potential risk factor for hamstring strain injury in collegiate male soccer players.
#21 A scoping review of force plates in female soccer: The utility, existing practice and identification of knowledge Gaps
Reference: PLoS One. 2026 Jun 15;21(6):e0351121. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0351121. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Jack T Fahey, Francisco Javier Robles-Palazón, Paul Comfort, Nichoals Ripley
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13268157/pdf/pone.0351121.pdf
Summary: Female soccer has grown exponentially with increasing funding, participation and competition. Force plates enable high resolution force-time assessment using isometric and dynamic tasks for acute or longitudinal monitoring, and profiling performance and injury risk. However, more research has been conducted in male soccer players compared to females with the utility of force plates in female soccer yet to be reviewed. The purpose of this scoping review is to review existing research using force plates in female soccer describing the utility of force plates, methods used, reported metrics and to identify gaps in our current understanding. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline, and Cinahl using the following search terms: „girl*“ OR „female*“ OR „women*“ AND „football*“ OR „soccer*“ AND „force plat*“ AND “ jump“ OR „isometric“ AND („multi joint*“ OR „single joint*“ OR „plantar flex*“ OR „knee*“ OR „hamstring*“ OR „knee flex*“ OR „hip exten*“ OR „posterior chain*“ OR „drop*“ OR „rebound*“ OR „stiffness*“ „power*“ OR „strength*“ OR „countermovement“ OR „dominant*“ OR „non dominant*“). Sixty-three studies were eligible with most studies investigating senior elite players during dynamic tasks. The bilateral countermovement jump was the most common test followed by pre-planned change of direction and the isometric mid-thigh pull. Force plates were mostly used for performance assessment/ sex comparison research designs, followed by acute monitoring. Peak force was the most reported metric across all studies and jump height was most reported in studies investigating jumping. Most researchers used force plates in laboratory settings relating to change of direction and landing tasks with limited research conducted in applied settings and at youth level. Therefore, future researchers should focus on field-based assessments aiming to provide benchmarks and prospectively track players for injury as to support the health and performance of female soccer players at all levels of competition.