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 Acceleration and deceleration responses to different small-sided game formats in elite youth soccer players: a repeated-measures GPS study
Reference: Front Physiol. 2026 Jul 16:17:1847447. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2026.1847447. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Barış Baydemir, Niyazi Eniseler, Zülbiye Kaçay, Laurentiu-Gabriel Talaghir, Gabriel Marian Manolache, Anamaria Berdila
Download link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2026.1847447/full
Summary: This study investigated the effects of different small-sided game (SSG) formats and pitch sizes on GPS-derived acceleration and deceleration event counts as indicators of external movement demands in elite youth soccer players. Twenty male elite youth soccer players (age: 19 ± 1.24 years) performed 4v1 and 6v2 SSG formats across multiple pitch dimensions (4v1: 5×5, 6×6, 7×7, and 8×8 m; 6v2: 6×6, 7×7, 8×8, 9×9, and 10×10 m). Movement data were collected from players positioned in the middle using 10 Hz GPS devices (MinimaxX v4.0, Catapult Innovations, Melbourne, Australia). Acceleration and deceleration counts were analyzed according to game format, pitch size, and bout duration (15 s and 30 s) using repeated-measures ANOVA and Holm-adjusted post-hoc comparisons. Significant main effects of game format were observed across all acceleration and deceleration event-count variables (p < 0.001), with large effect sizes (partial η² = 0.632-0.837). In common pitch dimensions (6×6-8×8 m), the 4v1 format consistently elicited higher event counts than the 6v2 format. For example, during the 30 s condition at 6×6 m, 4v1 produced higher acceleration Zone 1 event counts than 6v2 (mean difference = 1.80; p < 0.001; Cohen’s dz = 2.24). Within the 4v1 format, the smallest pitch size (5×5 m) generated the highest acceleration and deceleration event counts, whereas in the 6v2 format the largest pitch size (10×10 m) elicited the greatest event counts. These findings suggest that the interaction between player configuration and spatial constraints substantially influences GPS-derived acceleration and deceleration event counts during SSGs. From a practical perspective, 4v1 SSGs performed in reduced spaces may provide an effective training stimulus for increasing acceleration and deceleration event counts. However, these outcomes should be interpreted as external movement-demand indicators and not as direct measures of quickness, agility, or perceptual-cognitive performance.
#2 Whose Side Are You On? Observing the Influence of Perceptual and Motor Experience on Soccer Passes
Reference: Res Q Exerc Sport. 2026 Jul 30:1-10. doi: 10.1080/02701367.2026.2698416. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Fiona Magill, Joseph Baker, Luc Tremblay
Summary: Successful athletes become highly skilled at encoding body movements to predict sport-specific projectile trajectories. Such predictive ability appears to be related to sidedness, arguably exacerbated by the likelihood of interacting with right- versus left-sided kinematic information. Notably, asymmetries in such perceptual biases have not been examined from a temporal perspective, which is critical due to the spatiotemporal nature of many sport skills. We hypothesized that implementing a sport-specific motor task would reveal reduced rightward bias in left-footed soccer players compared to previous studies, as perceptual and motor experience would influence predictive ability. Experienced left- and right-footed soccer players (n = 28) completed a pass-return task, wherein they watched videoed passers (left- or right-footed) kicking a ball toward them at 3 different speeds. Participants passed a soccer ball to one of three possible targets; they were asked to be as accurate as possible regarding the temporal onset and the endpoint spatial accuracy of their kick. Videos of the passer were occluded at ball contact to emphasize the encoding of kicking kinematics. A 3-factor ANOVA first revealed overall shorter response times when watching right- versus left-footed passers F(1, 26) = 13.60, p = .001, η2p = .34. Yet, right-footed participants exhibited more asymmetric timing between the passer’s footedness at slow versus fast speeds (p < .001). Such findings suggest that temporal projectile prediction ability in experienced soccer players is driven by perceptual familiarity as well as motor experience.
#3 Beyond the game: evaluating a soccer-centered approach to physical activity and health education in children
Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2026 Jul 15:8:1765167. doi: 10.3389/fspor.2026.1765167. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Jordan D Foster, Eva Li, Arturo Juarez Jr et al.
Download link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/sports-and-active-living/articles/10.3389/fspor.2026.1765167/full
Summary: Due to only 25% of U.S. children meeting the physical activity guidelines, we aimed to determine feasibility of team sports to engage children in at least 60 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily and increase health knowledge. This 11-week quasi-experimental pre/post intervention study was conducted in two after-school programs around metro Atlanta, GA, USA (C1, n = 18; C2, n = 22). The 11 for Health program is an 11-week active learning model that involves 2 × 45 min per week soccer drills, small-sided games, and health education modules. Assessments included health knowledge and physical fitness metrics such as estimated VO2, standing long jump, balance, agility, and handgrip strength. Non-participants were defined as missing 3 or more sessions and/or not participating in the activities. Descriptive statistics and t-tests were used to compare pre- and post-intervention assessments, stratified by participation level. C1 were on average 9.2 years old, 31% female, and 100% White. C2 were on average 9.8 years, 48% female, and 67% Hispanic and 33% Black. Attendance was 69% (SD 0.26) in average over the 11 weeks for both cohorts, with no difference in attendance between groups. Agility improved significantly [2.7 s(1.5); 95% CI: -3.2,-2.2] overall but no between-group difference was found. C2 participants improved significantly compared to C1 participants (p = 0.006) in left handgrip. C1 performed significantly better on the health knowledge test (p = 0.023; 95% CI: 0.018, 0.225) but neither cohort improved over time. The program is feasible for American children; however, careful consideration of setting and coaching staff is necessary.
#4 Does pretraining napping improve time-motion metrics and psychophysiological responses during small-sided games in Ramadan-fasted professional soccer players?
Reference: J Sports Sci. 2026 Jul 29:1-14. doi: 10.1080/02640414.2026.2702738. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Mohamed Kerkeni, Achraf Ammar, Omar Boukhris et al.
Summary: We examined the effects of a 90-minute nap (N90) during Ramadan fasting (RF) on time-motion and psychophysiological responses during small-sided soccer games (SSGs). Eighteen male professional soccer players (mean ± SD; age: 21.9 ± 1.5 y; estimated VO2max: 55.1 ± 3.2 mL·kg-1 ·min-1) completed four counterbalanced SSGs sessions under N90 and no nap (N0) conditions, one week before and during the third week of RF. Nap duration was monitored via a wrist sleep tracker. Daytime sleepiness was assessed before and after napping. Mood states and hydration status were evaluated before each trial. Time-motion and exercise heart rate (HR) during SSGs were recorded. Blood lactate ([La]) and perceived exertion (RPE) were collected post-sessions. Urine osmolality during RF remained unchanged. The N90 during RF was associated with lower sleepiness (p < 0.001), greater total distance (p = 0.011), and higher running distances at low and moderate-intensity running (p = 0.005 and p = 0.016, respectively). N90 also resulted in lower resting HR (p = 0.021), mean HR (p = 0.006), and relative exercise HR (p = 0.010). N90 was linked to greater vigour (p < 0.001), lower fatigue (p = 0.034), and reduced RPE (p = 0.010). Post-exercise [La] did not differ during RF trials. Pre-SSGs napping may improve time-motion metrics, reduce physiological strain, lower perceived exertion, and enhance mood in Ramadan-fasted professional soccer players.
#5 Structured sport and executive functions in Moroccan children: a seven-indicator analysis comparing soccer, taekwondo, and non-athletes
Reference: Child Neuropsychol. 2026 Jul 28:1-22. doi: 10.1080/09297049.2026.2703820. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Hamid Kaddouri, Salahddine Zerouali, Mohammed Bouayad, Hamza Tkhirfah, Abdelouahed El-Kamia, Abdelaziz ElAlaoui ElAmrani
Summary: This cross-sectional study examined whether structured sport participation is selectively associated with specific executive function (EF) components in preadolescent children. Participants were 120 Moroccan boys aged 8-12 years: soccer players (n = 30), taekwondo practitioners (n = 30), and non-athletes (n = 60). Seven EF indicators were analyzed separately (verbal and spatial updating, inhibitory control speed and accuracy, cognitive flexibility, and verbal and spatial storage) using culturally adapted neuropsychological instruments administered in Moroccan Arabic. ANCOVAs controlling for age revealed significant group differences in inhibition accuracy (η2p = .233), cognitive flexibility (η2p = .114), and both updating indicators (η2p = .074-.081), but not in passive storage (η2p < .03). A speed – accuracy trade-off emerged: athletes responded more slowly but committed significantly fewer Stroop errors. Soccer and taekwondo groups showed equivalent EF profiles on six of seven indicators, challenging the open-versus-closed-skill specificity hypothesis and consistent with a cognitive engagement account. Sport group explained 23.2% unique variance in inhibition accuracy beyond age. These findings indicate selective associations between structured sport and executive-demanding processes, not passive storage, and carry implications for neuropsychological assessment in sport-participating children. The cross-sectional design precludes causal inference; longitudinal and experimental research is needed.
#6 Comparison of 2 Days of Moderate or High Carbohydrate Intake on Physical and Cognitive Performance in Female Team Sport Players During a Simulated Soccer Match Protocol
Reference: Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2026 Jul 28:1-11. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.2026-0098. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Laura McManus, Michael Scriney, Brendan Egan
Summary: High carbohydrate (CHO) intakes are recommended in the 24-48 hr before soccer matches to increase glycogen stores and delay the development of match-related fatigue, but this concept is unexplored in female soccer players. This study compared the effects of 2 days of divergent CHO intake on physical and cognitive performance during a simulated soccer match protocol. Using a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design, 15 female field-based intermittent team sport players consumed either a high CHO diet (6 g·kg body mass [BM]-1·day-1; HIGH) or an isocaloric moderate CHO diet (3 g·kg BM-1·day-1; MOD) for 2 days after completing a standardized (∼35 min) intermittent exercise protocol. For the main experimental trials, participants completed the Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test as 5 × 15-min blocks of intermittent running followed by a shuttle run time to exhaustion, with cognitive performance assessed before and after the test. There was no significant difference (6.9 [-71.1, 84.8] s) in time to exhaustion between conditions (HIGH, 295 ± 137 s; MOD, 288 ± 133 s; p = .852; g = 0.05). Sprint times were faster during HIGH compared with MOD at Block 3 (p = .021; g = 0.33), Block 4 (p = .035; g = 0.31), and Block 5 (p < .001; g = 0.34). Rating of perceived exertion was lower during HIGH compared with MOD after Block 1 (p < .001; g = 0.78) and Block 2 (p = .018; g = 0.49). Reaction time in the Task Switching test was improved from pre- to postexercise in HIGH (p = .017; g = 0.67) but not MOD (p = .913; g = 0.05). These results suggest that female soccer players may benefit from increasing daily CHO intake to at least 6 g/kg BM for the 2 days preceding competitive matches.
#7 Acute and Short-Term Neuromuscular and Perceptual Responses to Isometric vs. Dynamic Strength Training in Youth Soccer Players: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Reference: Res Q Exerc Sport. 2026 Jul 28:1-8. doi: 10.1080/02701367.2026.2709598. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Filipe Maia, Guy Sauce, João Francisco Ferreira et al.
Summary: This study aimed to compare the short-term neuromuscular impairments resulting from a single session of isometric and dynamic strength training in youth soccer players. Twenty-one male youth soccer players (aged 16.8 ± 0.9 years) participated in this counterbalanced crossover trial, and were randomly assigned to a training sequence, starting with either a dynamic (3 sets of 4 repetitions of squats and deadlifts at 75% and 80% of 1RM, respectively) or an isometric training session (3 sets of 4 maximal 4-second repetitions of isometric squats and mid-thigh pulls) with protocols standardized for the number of exercises, sets, repetitions, and recovery intervals. A one-week washout period was allowed before participants switched training conditions. A repeated-measures ANOVA was used to assess the differences in countermovement jump (CMJ) height, bar velocity during half-squats, and perceived soreness and fatigue across different time points (baseline, 30 minutes, and 24 hours post-exercise). CMJ height was significantly greater in the isometric condition 30 minutes post-exercise compared to the dynamic condition (d = 0.71; p < .001). Additionally, the isometric condition exhibited significantly higher bar velocity 24 hours post-exercise (d = 0.69; p < .001). While no significant differences were detected in perceived soreness between groups at any time point, perceived fatigue was significantly reduced in the isometric condition at the 24-hour mark (d = 0.70; p < .05). These findings suggest that dynamic strength training may impair neuromuscular function to a greater extent than isometric training.
#8 Practical Nutritional Strategies to Attenuate Physiological Stress in Adolescent Soccer Players: A Comparative Trial of CoQ10 and Taurine
Reference: Nutrients. 2026 Jul 9;18(14):2229. doi: 10.3390/nu18142229.
Authors: Yousra Alsinani, Majid Al-Busafi, Hossein Shirvani
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13415384/pdf/nutrients-18-02229.pdf
Summary: Intensified training in adolescent soccer players increases oxidative stress, muscle damage, inflammation, and immune suppression, but direct comparisons of nutritional countermeasures are lacking. This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial compared the effects of 14-day coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) versus taurine supplementation on haematological, oxidative, muscle damage, inflammatory, hormonal, and immune biomarkers in under-19 soccer players undergoing three repeated 90 min Soccer Match Simulation (SMS) sessions. Twenty-four male players (age 17.9 ± 0.7 years) received placebo (n = 8), CoQ10 (300 mg/day, n = 8), or taurine (4 g/day plus 4 g pre-session, n = 8). Blood was collected at baseline (T0), post-first session (T1), post-third session (T2), and 24 h post-third session (T3). Biomarkers included creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), interleukins (IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α), cortisol, testosterone, CD4/CD8 ratio, immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG), and plasma volume (Dill-Costill). Data were analysed by two-way repeated-measures ANOVA. CoQ10 was superior in reducing MDA (T2: 0.83 ± 0.02 vs. 1.24 ± 0.03 μmol/L, p < 0.001), LDH (434 ± 9 vs. 684 ± 12 U/L, p < 0.001), and cortisol (20.2 ± 0.6 vs. 30.4 ± 0.8 μg/dL, p < 0.001), and preserved the testosterone:cortisol ratio (24.5 ± 1.1 vs. 13.6 ± 1.0 × 10-3, p < 0.001). CoQ10 was more effective than taurine in lowering IL-6 at T2 (3.5 ± 0.2 vs. 3.9 ± 0.2 pg/mL, p = 0.03), whereas taurine was more effective in increasing IL-10 (7.5 ± 0.2 vs. 5.7 ± 0.2 pg/mL, p = 0.005). Both supplements preserved CD4 counts (CoQ10: 790 ± 13, taurine: 795 ± 14 vs. placebo: 680 ± 15 cells/μL, p < 0.01) and the CD4/CD8 ratio, as well as IgA and IgG levels, with no between-supplement differences for immune outcomes (p > 0.05). No adverse events occurred. For adolescent soccer players undergoing intensified training, CoQ10 may be preferred when the goal is reducing oxidative stress, muscle damage, and catabolic load; taurine may be preferred for targeted anti-inflammatory support (IL-10 elevation). Either supplement effectively attenuated changes in circulating immune biomarkers. These preliminary findings provide evidence-based guidance for targeted sports nutrition, pending confirmation in larger trials.
#9 Associations Between Physiological Characteristics and Physical Performance in Amputee Soccer Players: A Cross-Sectional Study
Reference: Medicina (Kaunas). 2026 Jul 12;62(7):1346. doi: 10.3390/medicina62071346.
Authors: Mert Ilhan, Fatih Erbahceci
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13414375/pdf/medicina-62-01346.pdf
Summary: Amputee soccer places exceptional demands on lumbopelvic stability and upper extremity capacity due to unilateral lower limb amputation and forearm crutch use. This cross-sectional study examined associations between core stabilization, core endurance, respiratory muscle strength, isokinetic knee muscle strength, and dominant handgrip strength with physical performance in amputee soccer players, and examined which physiological variables were most strongly associated with performance. Fifteen male amputee soccer players (age: 27.4 ± 5.6 years; BMI: 20.8 ± 1.4 kg/m2) competing in the Turkish Amputee Football Super League were included. Core stabilization was assessed by the pressure biofeedback unit (PBU), core endurance by the McGill Core Endurance Battery, respiratory muscle strength by maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP and MEP), isokinetic knee muscle strength at 60°/s, 180°/s, and 240°/s using the IsoMed 2000 dynamometer, and dominant handgrip strength by a hydraulic hand dynamometer. Physical performance outcomes were single-leg triple hop test (THT) distance, 10-m sprint time, and Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUEST) score. PBU score was negatively correlated with THT distance (r = -0.928, p < 0.001) and 10-m sprint time (r = -0.580, p = 0.023). McGill total score was correlated with THT distance (r = 0.561, p = 0.030), and dominant handgrip strength with CKCUEST score (r = 0.634, p = 0.011). No significant associations were found for respiratory muscle strength or isokinetic knee muscle strength. Separate regression models showed that PBU score explained variance in THT distance (R2 = 0.861, p < 0.001) and 10-m sprint time (R2 = 0.336, p = 0.023); McGill total score explained variance in THT distance (R2 = 0.315, p = 0.030). Core stabilization and endurance appear to be primary factors associated with physical performance in amputee soccer and warrant targeted assessment and training.
#10 Analysis of the Load-Velocity Relationship in the Full Squat Exercise in Female Soccer Players of Different Ages
Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2026 Jul 27. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005624. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Carmen Serrano-Cañadillas, Manuel Jiménez-Lozano, María Alonso-Escribano, Luis Sánchez-Medina, Juan José González-Badillo, David Rodríguez-Rosell
Summay: The aims of this study were twofold: to compare the load-velocity relationship in the full squat (FS) exercise in young female soccer players, and to examine the effect of chronological age on this relationship. Eighty-five female soccer players from the same club voluntarily participated in this study. Players were recruited from 3 age categories: Senior, Under-18, and Under-16. All subjects had at least 6 months of resistance training experience, including the FS, performed twice per week. The load-velocity relationship was determined using a progressive loading test up to the one-repetition maximum (1RM). Lifting velocity was measured using a linear velocity transducer. For each repetition, 3 velocity variables were obtained during the concentric phase: mean propulsive velocity (MPV), mean velocity (MV), and peak velocity (PV). Significant relationships (p < 0.001) were found between relative load (%1RM) and MPV (R2 = 0.961; SEE = 0.069), MV (R2 = 0.958; SEE = 0.062), and PV (R2 = 0.795; SEE = 0.132). Importantly, no statistically significant between-group differences were observed in MPV, MV, or PV at any relative load across age categories. In addition, mixed-effects polynomial models revealed no consistent effect of age on the overall level of the load-velocity relationship. These findings provide insights for optimizing resistance training load prescription in female soccer players. Based on our results, MPV and MV seem to be more valid than PV and may be preferable for prescribing and monitoring relative load during the FS exercise in female soccer players.
#11 Analysis of Offensive Performance in 5-A-Side Soccer for the Blind: An Exploratory Study
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Jul 22;14(7):312. doi: 10.3390/sports14070312.
Authors: Boryi A Becerra-Patiño, Juan David Paucar-Uribe, Rodrigo Yáñez-Sepúlveda, José Francisco López-Gil, José Pino-Ortega
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13417005/pdf/sports-14-00312.pdf
Summary: Five-a-side soccer for the blind (F5) is a Paralympic sport that has been the subject of research aimed at identifying variables that influence performance. However, despite its growing popularity, there is limited scientific literature on quantitative analyses of offensive performance in this sport. The aim was to analyze 164 offensive plays by the Argentine men’s national team during the 2022 International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) Copa América to determine the spatiotemporal progression and the decline in intra-match offensive performanceEach play was reconstructed with its progression vector, its finishing zone, and its absolute game minute. Multivariate logistic regression models and weighted trend analysis (Cochran-Armitage) were applied to examine the relationship between these variables and the offensive outcome (shot on-target and goal). Plays originating from high-pressure recovery showed a favorable trend toward shooting on-target. The goal rate showed an empirical decline from 26.1% in the 6th-10th minutes to 6.7% in the final minutes, without reaching statistical significance. The results of this study suggest that the magnitude of the offensive progression vector and offensive effectiveness show an asymmetry toward the right side, as well as a pattern consistent with an intra-match decline toward the end of games. These variables appear to influence the offensive performance of the Argentine men’s national blind football (F5) in the 2022 Copa América. These findings provide one of the first integrated vector analyses of offensive performance in F5 and propose metrics applicable to coaching staff, the design of specific training programs, and the functional assessment of athletes with visual impairments; therefore, further studies are needed to analyze these metrics in different official competitions and to account for various competitive levels. It is recommended to design training exercises focused on recovery under high pressure near the right side of the offensive zone and maintain the intensity of play in the final minutes of the game.
#12 Match and Training External Load Ratios in Semi-Professional Male Soccer Players: An Exploratory Study
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Jul 22;14(7):310. doi: 10.3390/sports14070310.
Authors: Sofia Agra, João Barreira, Ricardo Pimenta, Farzad Yousefian, José Afonso, Fábio Yuzo Nakamura
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13416733/pdf/sports-14-00310.pdf
Summary: This study aimed to quantify and compare the absolute daily and weekly external loads and training-to-match ratios of high-speed running distance (HSRD) and sprint distance (SPD) across the microcycle in semi-professional male soccer players. Twenty-four players from a Portuguese fourth-division team were monitored across nine standardized microcycles (7 days; 1 match) during the 2024-2025 competitive season using Global Navigation Satellite System devices. Absolute HSRD and SPD values were calculated for each training day and match, and daily and weekly training-to-match ratios were derived. Linear mixed-effects models assessed the effects of weekday, playing position, and their interaction. Match day elicited the highest absolute HSRD and SPD across all positions (p < 0.001). Within the training week, HSRD peaked on MD-3, whereas SPD peaked on MD-2, with the lowest values observed on MD-1. Significant position-by-day interactions were identified for both HSRD and SPD (p < 0.001). Wide defenders and midfielders accumulated greater absolute HSRD during both training and matches, while central defenders exhibited comparatively higher training-to-match ratios despite lower absolute match demands. Notably, in the analyzed team, all playing positions exceeded 100% of match-derived HSRD and SPD during the training week. In conclusion, the semi-professional soccer players investigated herein accumulated weekly high-speed and sprinting loads that exceeded match demands, although their distribution varied by playing position and training day. Confirmatory studies are necessary to further explore training-to-match load ratios across different competitive levels.
#13 Longitudinal Seasonal Development of Anthropometric and Physical Performance Characteristics in Youth Trained Soccer Players
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Jul 20;14(7):308. doi: 10.3390/sports14070308.
Authors: Mohamed Amin Selmi, Roland van den Tillaar, Radhouane Haj Sassi, Raouf Hammami
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13417309/pdf/sports-14-00308.pdf
Summary: This study investigated seasonal changes in anthropometric characteristics, vertical and horizontal jump performance, 30 m sprint performance, estimated maximal aerobic capacity, and repeated-sprint ability in competitive youth soccer players across the preparation, mid-season, and end-season phases. A longitudinal repeated-measures design was employed over one competitive season. Anthropometric variables, vertical and horizontal jump performance, 30 m sprint performance, estimated VO2max derived from the Vam-Eval field test, and repeated-sprint sets (2 × 5 × 20 m with 15 s recovery between sprints and 1 min between sets) were assessed at three time points. Significant seasonal changes were observed in anthropometric characteristics, with body mass and height increasing progressively and body fat percentage decreasing throughout the competitive season (F ≥ 12.0, p < 0.001, ηp2 ≥ 0.32). Body mass increased from 64.1 ± 6.7 to 66.7 ± 6.8 kg, height from 1.69 ± 0.07 to 1.72 ± 0.07 m, and body fat percentage decreased from 11.3 ± 2.0% to 9.4 ± 1.8%. Peak height velocity (PHV) significantly influenced changes in body mass and height but not body fat percentage. Seasonal improvements were observed in several physical performance measures. Squat jump, standing long jump, 15 s repeated jump performance, 10- and 30 m sprint performance, estimated maximal aerobic speed, estimated VO2max, and repeated-sprint performance changed significantly across the season (F ≥ 3.28, p ≤ 0.046, ηp2 ≥ 0.11), whereas countermovement jump, five-jump test, and flying 20 m sprint performance remained unchanged. Estimated VO2max and maximal aerobic speed improved from preparation to mid-season and were subsequently maintained. Repeated-sprint performance exhibited set-dependent seasonal adaptations, with significant Time × Set interactions indicating progressive improvements during the second repeated-sprint set, whereas the first set showed only transient improvements at mid-season. Significant PHV and Time × PHV effects were also observed for aerobic capacity and repeated-sprint performance. In conclusion, these seasonal variations likely reflect the combined influence of biological maturation, training exposure, and competitive demands rather than training effects alone.
#14 Exploring a Mental Fatigue Signal Hidden in GPS Data: Acute Pre-to-Post-Match Psychomotor Performance and Exploratory Associations with External Load in Professional Soccer
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Jun 24;14(7):261. doi: 10.3390/sports14070261.
Authors: Andreas Stafylidis, Walter Staiano, Athanasios Mandroukas et al.
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13418460/pdf/sports-14-00261.pdf
Summary: This study examined acute pre- to post-match changes in perceived mental fatigue, subjective workload, and psychomotor performance in professional male soccer players, and whether cognitive changes were associated with GPS-derived external-load metrics, match outcome, and playing position. The dataset comprised 101 player-match measurements from 40 elite players, with paired pre-post psychomotor assessments yielding n = 202 total measurements. Pre-post comparisons were analysed using repeated-measures ANOVA, supplemented by linear mixed-effects models with a random intercept for player. Soccer matches produced large increases in perceived exertion, mental fatigue, mental demand, physical demand, and effort (all p < 0.001), and significant deteriorations in reaction time, accuracy, processing speed, and response variability (all p ≤ 0.005), confirmed in the mixed-effects analyses (all p ≤ 0.014). In the initial player-match-level analyses, high-intensity accelerations (>3 m·s-2) were weakly associated with greater Δreaction-time slowing (r = 0.203), increased response variability (r = 0.276), and reduced Rate Correct Score (r = -0.242), while high metabolic load distance was weakly associated with post-match perceived mental fatigue but not with psychomotor-performance changes. One-way ANOVAs indicated greater post-match psychomotor decrements following losses than draws. Once within-player dependence was modelled, the effects of match outcome, playing position, and most external-load metrics were attenuated, except for a residual match-outcome effect on accuracy and a high-intensity deceleration effect on accuracy. These findings indicate that competitive soccer match play is followed by acute psychomotor-performance decrements and increased perceived mental fatigue, whereas the contributions of mechanical load, match outcome, and playing position appear modest and partly reflect stable between-player differences.
#15 Phase-Specific Variations in Lower-Limb Muscle Strength Across the Menstrual Cycle in Female Soccer Players
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Jun 23;14(7):257. doi: 10.3390/sports14070257.
Authors: Christina Sefotha, Simoné Ferreira, Lynn Smith
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13418160/pdf/sports-14-00257.pdf
Summary: Fluctuations in ovarian hormones across the menstrual cycle (MC) have been suggested to influence neuromuscular performance in female athletes. However, phase-specific variations in lower-limb muscle strength remain underexplored, particularly within the soccer population. This study investigated phase-related differences in lower-limb muscle strength across MC phases in female soccer players. A repeated-measures design was employed involving 50 competitive female soccer players. Bilateral lower-limb muscle strength was assessed using a handheld dynamometer (VALD DynaMo Plus) during the three MC phases: menstruation, late follicular, and luteal phase. Estimated menstrual cycle phases were identified using calendar-estimated tracking or an MC monitoring application (FitrWoman). Phase-related differences were analysed using repeated-measures analysis of variance with Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc comparisons, and effect sizes were reported as partial eta squared (ηp2). Significant differences in lower-limb muscle strength were observed across estimated MC phases (p < 0.05, ηp2 = 0.12-0.31). Both the non-dominant and dominant limbs demonstrated higher strength values during the late follicular phase, with hip abductors emerging as the strongest muscle group bilaterally (≈149 ± 37 kg). Most muscle groups exhibited lower strength values during the menstruation phase. Lower-limb muscle strength appears to vary across calendar-estimated MC phases in female soccer players, with higher strength values observed during the late follicular phase and lower values during menstruation. These findings should be interpreted with caution due to the method of phase identification but may have implications for the scheduling of strength assessments and training load management in female athletes.
#16 Incidence of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury and Subgroup Analysis by Age, Sex, Injury Mechanism, and Severity Among Bangladeshi 1853 Soccer Players: A 1-Year Prospective Cohort Study
Reference: Health Sci Rep. 2026 Jul 25;9(8):e72889. doi: 10.1002/hsr2.72889. eCollection 2026 Aug.
Authors: Sohraf Hossain, Kazi Md Azman Hossain, Md Shafiqul Islam, Md Adnan Ibne Reza, Tamzid Hossain, Md Nazmul Haq, Kulsum Akter
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13401720/pdf/HSR2-9-e72889.pdf
Summary: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are a major concern in soccer due to their high incidence and long-term functional impact. Despite this, there is a lack of prospective epidemiological data on ACL injuries among soccer players. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of ACL injuries among Bangladeshi soccer players during a 1-year follow-up period, with subgroup analyses by age, sex, injury mechanism, and severity. A 1-year prospective study was conducted involving 1853 participants during the 2024-2025 session across 12 soccer clubs in Bangladesh. During follow-up, all knee-related injuries were recorded, including associated factors, and the number of ACL injuries was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Incidence of ACL injury was compared by age group (11-14 years; 15-18 years; 19-22 years; and >22 years), sex (male and female), injury mechanism (contact-person; contact-friction; and overuse/non-contact), and severity (Grade I/II/III; pain intensity-Visual Analog Scale: VAS). A total of 110 MRI-confirmed ACL injuries were recorded, with an overall incidence rate of 0.16 per 1000 exposure hours (95% CI: 0.133-0.195) and a cumulative proportion of 5.94% (95% CI: 4.90-7.11). Incidence increased progressively with age, from 0.05 in 11-14 years to 0.23 in > 22 years (p < 0.001). Females showed a higher crude incidence than males (0.20 vs. 0.14 per 1000 h; p = 0.041), though this was not significant after adjustment. Contact mechanisms predominated (0.07 player-to-player, 0.06 surface-related) compared with non-contact injuries (0.03; p = 0.008). By severity, Grade II injuries were most frequent (0.09 per 1000 h). This study indicates a higher incidence of ACL injuries among Bangladeshi soccer players, supported by subgroup analyses. It examines key associated factors, including age, sex, injury mechanism, and severity. These findings should be interpreted with caution and not considered definitive. Overall, they may help guide targeted prevention strategies.
#17 ‚You’ll Never Walk Alone‘: A Qualitative Sequential Multimethod Study of Football-Based Bereavement Support for Men Who Have Experienced Baby Loss
Reference: Nurs Res Pract. 2026 Jul 30:2026:4511827. doi: 10.1155/nrp/4511827. eCollection 2026.
Authors: Paula Carroll, Marie Kelleher, Mark Henderson et al.
Summary: Despite men demonstrating high levels of grief and mental health difficulties after baby loss, support services predominantly focus on women. There is little known about the role of sport, football and targeted peer support for men who have experienced baby loss. The aim was to examine men’s experiences of accessing football-based baby loss bereavement support and the self-reported impact of the sessions on men’s grief and mental health. This project was designed with three men who have experienced baby loss. The study used a sequential QUAL-qual multimethod exploratory design. An online anonymous qualitative survey was distributed to all men who had attended a football session. A group discussion then considered the findings from the survey to add further depth to our understanding. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Consent was obtained from all participants. Staff with mental health training were present during the discussion. Twenty-one survey responses were received, and 11 men participated in the group discussion. Participants reported the limited targeted support available for men after baby loss, and that the football sessions provided a safe space to talk with other men who had a shared journey and experiences and that the football focus helped break down barriers and challenge the myths surrounding men and grief. The football-based sessions were described as life-changing and life-saving. The study highlights the need to dispel myths surrounding men’s grief after baby loss and emphasises the importance of football-based bereavement support in addressing men’s mental health.
#18 Motivational Coaching Cues Can Modulate Prefrontal Cortex Activity and Perceptual Responses of Elite Football Players During High-Intensity Interval Training: A Randomised Crossover fNIRS Study
Reference: Eur J Sport Sci. 2026 Aug;26(8):e70222. doi: 10.1002/ejsc.70222.
Authors: Sanghyuk Han, SoYoung Ahn, Yunho Sung, Ji-Won Seo, Xinxing Li, Seungoh Han, Chaewoon Kim, Wook Song
Download link: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/ejsc.70222
Summary: Football coaches commonly provide verbal encouragement and exercise end-point feedback to sustain players‘ effort by enhancing motivation during fitness training such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT). However, the influence of such cues on the prefrontal cortex (PFC), a region involved in exercise cessation decisions, remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effect of motivational cues on PFC activation during HIIT using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, alongside physiological and perceptual responses. Twenty-two male elite footballers completed two randomised crossover HIIT sessions on a cycle ergometer, with and without motivational cues. Each session consisted of 12 repetitions of 30-s high-intensity bouts, each interspersed with a 30-s active recovery bout. Heart rate, lactate concentration, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), motivation-related questionnaires and oxygenated haemoglobin (HbO2) concentration in the PFC were measured throughout HIIT. Although physiological responses were similar between conditions, perceived difficulty, assessed every three HIIT bouts, was significantly lower under the motivational condition, with lower RPE (p = 0.038) and higher motivation (p = 0.049), engagement (p = 0.038) and mood (p = 0.009) scores, particularly after the 9th repetition. From the 10th to 12th repetition of HIIT, the HbO2 concentrations of the orbitofrontal cortex and frontopolar PFC were significantly lower under the motivational condition (p = 0.040 and p = 0.036, respectively), whereas the dorsolateral and ventrolateral PFC showed no significant difference between conditions. In conclusion, motivational cues reduce central PFC activity during the most fatiguing phases of HIIT, reflecting enhanced neural efficiency under motivation despite equivalent physical workloads.
#19 Incidence of Musculoskeletal Injuries in Natural and Artificial Turfs during the 2024 First Division of Brazilian Football Championship: A Retrospective Study
Reference: Rev Bras Ortop (Sao Paulo). 2026 Jul 28;61(2):s00461822978. doi: 10.1055/s-0046-1822978. eCollection 2026 Apr. [Article in Portuguese]
Authors: Matheus Martins Godoy, Jéssica Chávare, Pedro Lucas Leal Chaves et al.
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13412945/pdf/10-1055-s-0046-1822978.pdf
Summary: The aim was to describe and compare matches played on artificial and natural turfs during the 2024 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A (the championship of the highest level of the professional association football league in Brazil), focusing specifically on the observed incidence and distribution of musculoskeletal injuries. In the current retrospective observational study, we analyzed all 380 matches of the 2024 season. Data regarding turf type, match characteristics, and injuries were obtained exclusively from publicly available secondary sources, including the official website of Confederação Brasileira de Futebol (CBF; https://www.cbf.com.br ) and major national media outlets. Cases with conflicting information were excluded. Exposure during the match was estimated assuming 22 players and 90 minutes, with incidence expressed as injuries per 1 thousand player-hours. Sub-analyses excluded previous reinjuries and direct trauma cases. A total of 88 injuries was recorded, showing 6.6 injuries per 1 thousand player-hours on natural turf versus 9.5 injuries per 1 thousand player-hours on artificial turf. Hamstring strains and ankle sprains were the most frequently observed types. Regarding the turfs, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) turf presented the highest rates among the artificial ones, while perennial ryegrass presented the highest rates among the natural ones. Injury numbers varied by context, with considerable rates observed regarding artificial turf during afternoon or night matches and at lower temperatures. Surgical treatments were frequently observed in association with natural turf, whereas recovery times differed minimally. Notably, one team whose stadium used artificial turf home team and one team whose stadium used natural turf recorded identical injury totals. Differences in injury occurrence between turf types were minimal. Given the retrospective design, secondary data reliance, underreporting potential, and limited control of confounders, the findings represent observational associations. Future prospective studies using standardized surveillance are warranted.
#20 Lifelong football training influences miR-1303 serum expression and human breast cancer MCF-7 cells motility: a pilot study
Reference: Front Sports Act Living. 2026 Jul 14:8:1727357.doi: 10.3389/fspor.2026.1727357.eCollection 2026.
Authors: Annamaria Mancini, Daniela Vitucci, Francesca Maria Orlandella et al.
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13407502/pdf/fspor-08-1727357.pdf
Summary: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key components in the interaction between lifestyle-related risk factors and cancer development. In particular, miR-1303 expression is deregulated in breast cancer tissues, with elevated levels associated with poor prognosis. We have previously shown that regular exercise reduces the expression of this miRNA in skeletal muscle. The present pilot study aimed to evaluate the impact of lifelong football training on circulating miR-1303 expression and miR-1303 modulation on proliferation, migration, and invasion pathways in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells. Blood samples were collected from 17 veteran football players (VPG) and 17 healthy, untrained males (CG) of matching age (74.4 ± 4.3 years). Serum levels of testosterone, estradiol, IGF-1, insulin (ELISA), and miR-1303 (RT-qPCR) were measured. MCF-7 cells were treated with serum collected from VPG, CG or transfected with 25 μM miR-1303 mimic or inhibitor or miRNA mimic negative control. Cell proliferation and invasion were assessed using Wound healing assays and Transwell assay, respectively. Western blotting and RTqPCR were performed to evaluate the expression of key migration and invasion markers. We demonstrated, for the first time, that miR-1303 expression was lower in VPG serum than in CG and paralleled the lower expression previously found in skeletal muscle. Overexpression of miR-1303 increases the proliferation and motility of MCF-7 breast cancer cells and is correlated with increased expression of β-catenin, c-Myc, and MMP2 genes and decreased expression of p21 and p27 proteins, all key markers involved in migration and invasion pathways. These events were reversed by treatment with the miR-1303 inhibitor. Interestingly, treatment of MCF-7 cells with sera from VPG, with low level of c- miR-1303, parallels the effects mediated by miR-1303 inhibition. Our findings suggest that lifelong football training may counteract MCF-7 cell proliferation and invasion activities and that miR-1303 is one of the factors mediating the effects of long-term football training on breast cancer cells.
#21 The optimal dose of strength and conditioning training for enhancing physical performance in football players: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Reference: Front Physiol.2026 Jul 6:17:1791257.doi: 10.3389/fphys.2026.1791257.eCollection 2026.
Authors: Shuyuan Du, Xinyi Li, Sheng-Qiang Wang
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13381195/pdf/fphys-17-1791257.pdf
Summary: This study aims to evaluate the effects of four types of physical training interventions on the athletic performance of soccer players and to determine the optimal training dosage for each modality. A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and OVID databases was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the impact of these four exercise-based interventions on soccer performance. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool, and all extracted data were analyzed using appropriate statistical software. The RCTs included in this review were published from the earliest available records through September 2025. A total of fifty-three RCTs with an aggregated sample of 1,580 participants met the eligibility criteria. The network meta-analysis demonstrated that strength training produced the most substantial improvements in several performance indicators, including Counter Movement Jump (CMJ) (SUCRA: 94%), Squat Jump (SJ) (SUCRA: 87.5%), one-repetition maximum squat (1-RM squat) (SUCRA: 99.9%), five-meter sprint (5m-sprint) (SUCRA: 99.6%), ten-meter sprint (10m-sprint) (SUCRA: 87.4%), thirty-meter sprint (30m-sprint) (SUCRA: 88.8%), and agility measured by the T-test (SUCRA: 69.4%). Additionally, endurance training showed the greatest effect on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) (SUCRA: 84.7%). Based on the ranking plots generated by the network meta-analysis, strength training demonstrates superior overall benefits compared with other exercise interventions for enhancing the performance of football players.
#22 Designing a mentorship programme for women football coaches in South Africa: an expert e-Delphi study
Reference: Front Sports Act Living.2026 Jul 6:8:1821565.doi: 10.3389/fspor.2026.1821565.eCollection 2026.
Authors: Thembisile Mbatha, Heather Morris-Eyton
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13381308/pdf/fspor-08-1821565.pdf
Summary: Despite global recognition of mentorship as a key strategy for advancing women in sport coaching, structured mentorship pathways for women football coaches remain limited within the South African context. While national sport policies emphasise equity and transformation, there is little empirical guidance informing the design of contextually relevant mentorship programmes. This study aimed to establish expert consensus to inform the development of a mentorship programme tailored to women football coaches in South Africa. An expert e-Delphi methodology was employed to systematically gather and refine perspectives from a panel of football experts with experience in coaching, coach education, and football administration. Thirteen experts participated in the initial round, with twelve completing the subsequent consensus rounds. Initial rounds generated statements relating to mentorship structure, objectives, delivery mechanisms, and support systems, which were refined through iterative feedback and consensus-building processes. The findings identified key elements necessary for an effective mentorship programme, including structured matching processes for mentors and mentees, clear role definitions, capacity-building components, organisational support, and monitoring mechanisms. Consensus was achieved on the core components of the mentorship programme, resulting in the development of a proposed mentorship framework. Experts emphasised the importance of embedding mentorship within formal coaching pathways rather than relying solely on informal relationships. This study provides evidence-based, context-specific guidance for the development of structured mentorship initiatives aimed at advancing women football coaches in South Africa. The findings highlight the value of formalised mentorship structures in supporting coach development and contribute to broader efforts to establish equitable, sustainable, and inclusive coach development systems within South African football.
#23 Neural activation patterns underlying football decision-making: evidence for the neural proficiency hypothesis
Reference: Brain Imaging Behav.2026 Jul 28;20(4):113.doi: 10.1007/s11682-026-01184-0.
Authors: Ju Li, Yaping Cao, ZhongCheng Li, Xudong Zhao, Zhe Qin, Minghao Huang, Jian Lang, Xiaopeng Chi
Download link: https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11682-026-01184-0.pdf
Summary: Football decision-making requires the rapid integration of perceptual and cognitive information under complex and dynamic conditions. While elite players consistently outperform novices, the neural mechanisms underlying this expertise remain underexplored. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and a realistic video-based decision-making paradigm, we compared brain activation patterns in 20 elite and 20 novice football players. Experts demonstrated significantly higher decision accuracy and faster reaction times. Both groups showed widespread cortical and subcortical activation, yet experts exhibited greater engagement of frontal and parietal cortices and reduced reliance on occipital visual areas. Conjunction and functional decoding analyses revealed that experts preferentially recruited regions related to working memory, semantic processing, visuospatial attention, and conflict monitoring. Activation intensity in the precuneus, angular gyrus, and middle cingulate cortex positively correlated with decision accuracy within the expert group. These findings provide neuroimaging evidence that superior decision-making in elite athletes is supported by enhanced recruitment and integration of higher-order cognitive networks, consistent with the Neural Proficiency Hypothesis. The results extend current understanding of how domain-specific experience reorganizes neural systems to support expert performance in complex, open-skill sports.
#24 Conservative Treatment Including Focused Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy as a First-Line Treatment for Isolated Peroneus Longus Tendon Tear in a Professional Football Player Shows Excellent Clinical and Radiological Outcomes: A Case Report
Reference: Life (Basel).2026 Jul 7;16(7):1129.doi: 10.3390/life16071129.
Authors: L Alejandro Culebras Almeida, Adrien J-P Schwitzguebel
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13412154/pdf/life-16-01129.pdf
Summary: Isolated peroneus longus (PL) tendon tears are rare injuries and an often-overlooked cause of chronic lateral ankle pain. Evidence regarding optimal conservative management, especially in elite athletes, remains limited. Focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy (F-ESWT) has shown promising results in tendinopathies, yet its application in acute tendon tears is poorly documented. We present the case of a professional football player in his late twenties who sustained an isolated longitudinal PL tear. The player underwent a combined conservative protocol including F-ESWT, physiotherapy, and custom orthotics. Pain (Visual Analog Scale, VAS) and function (AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Score) were assessed at baseline, three months, and in an 18-month follow-up. MRI scans were obtained at diagnosis and after six weeks to evaluate tendon healing. The conservative treatment protocol, including eight sessions of ultrasound-guided F-ESWT (2500-4000 impulses per session, 50-550 µJ/mm2) led to marked pain relief and functional improvement. VAS decreased from 7/10 to 1/10, while AOFAS improved from 57 to 95 points, maintained at 18 months. MRI after six weeks of treatment demonstrated decreased intratendinous hyperintensity, reduced lesion length, and re-establishment of normal tendon architecture. The player returned to training after eight weeks and full competition after 12 weeks, remaining asymptomatic thereafter. A multimodal treatment consisting of F-ESWT, physiotherapy with progressive loading and orthotic correction resulted in rapid and durable healing of an isolated PL tear in a professional athlete. This case supports the potential role of a multimodal conservative treatment strategy including F-ESWT as a first-line, non-invasive option for acute peroneal tendon tears.
#25 Sports nutrition knowledge, beliefs, and dietary practices among African football players: a pan-African cross-sectional study
Reference: J Sci Med Sport. 2026 Jul 16:S1440-2440(26)00287-2. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2026.07.010. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Yousri Elghoul, Ben Mwesigwa, Maurice Douryang et al.
Summary: This study assessed sports nutrition knowledge, nutrition-related beliefs, and dietary practices among African football players across all six Confederation of African Football zones and examined how age, sex, education, and competitive level relate to sports nutrition knowledge. A total of 1310 players (758 men/boys; 552 women/girls) completed a validated questionnaire adapted from previous literature and the Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire. Non-parametric tests (Mann-Whitney U; Kruskal-Wallis with Dunn-Holm correction), Chi-square tests, and Spearman correlations were used to examine group differences and associations. Overall, sports nutrition knowledge was low. Fewer than half of players correctly identified macronutrient content in common foods (carbohydrates 45-53%; protein 23-41%; fat 50-57%). Knowledge of optimal nutrient timing (34-39%) and hydration strategies (<33%) was similarly limited. Belief misconceptions were widespread: 75% endorsed routine supplement use, and nearly half believed iron tablets should be taken for fatigue and pallor. Only 8.5% reported high confidence in their sports nutrition knowledge, most of which originated from internet sources (34%). Although 68% consumed three meals daily, only 26-32% reported daily fruit or vegetable intake, while ∼40% consumed daily fast food, sweetened beverages, and supplements. Sports nutrition knowledge differed significantly by age, education, and competition level (p < 0.001, respectively), with senior players and those with higher education scoring higher. Women/girls had higher sports nutrition knowledge than men/boys (p < 0.001). These findings highlight the need for context-specific, evidence-based nutrition education strategies to support healthy and performance-enhancing dietary behaviours among developing and elite football players across Africa.
#26 Age-Related Characteristics of Lower-Limb Muscular Balance in Bulgarian Male Football Players Aged 13 to over 19 Years
Reference: Sports (Basel).2026 Jul 20;14(7):306.doi: 10.3390/sports14070306.
Authors: Petar Peev, Danail Ivanov, Grigor Gutev
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13418461/pdf/sports-14-00306.pdf
Summary: Muscle strength and bilateral asymmetry of the lower limbs are relevant to injury risk and performance in football, yet their age-related development in adolescent players outside elite Western European cohorts is insufficiently described. This study determined age-related differences in lower-limb strength and muscular balance in Bulgarian male football players. A total of 122 players aged 13 to over 19 years from three clubs were assessed at the end of the competitive season. Maximal concentric knee extension and flexion peak force of both legs was measured at 60°/s using a system with electronically controlled resistance (Kineo); relative strength (force per body mass) was used for the main between-age comparisons to control for growth. Age differences were analysed with ANOVA and Tukey tests (extension) and Kruskal-Wallis with DSCF comparisons (flexion) across seven age groups. Relative strength differed significantly with age (extension η2p = 0.28-0.36; flexion ε2 = 0.43-0.49), rising most up to 16 years and then plateauing. The concentric H/Q balance index ranged from 0.48 to 0.62. The findings provide a descriptive developmental profile relevant to individualised strength programming in youth football.
#27 Intra- and Inter-Rater Reliability of a Systematic Video Analysis of ACL Injuries in Elite Men’s Football
Reference: Sports (Basel).2026 Jul 6;14(7):284.doi: 10.3390/sports14070284.
Authors: Sara F Oliveira, Maria M Castela, Konstantinos Spyrou, António P Veloso, João Brito
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13418163/pdf/sports-14-00284.pdf
Summary: While systematic video analysis is widely used to understand anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury mechanisms and contexts, human observation reliability remains a source of concern. This study evaluates the intra- and inter-rater reliability of a systematic video-analysis checklist for assessing ACL injuries in elite men’s football. Twenty-five match-related injuries from the top six European leagues (2020-2024) were randomly selected. Independent observers assessed contextual and situational (sunny weather, match minute, playing phase, field location, injury side, dominant leg, and situational pattern), biomechanical (player contact and anatomical area of player contact), and neurocognitive (attentional inhibition and motor response inhibition) variables. Reliability was calculated using Cohen’s kappa (κ) and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC). Quantitative variables and macro-contextual factors, including injury side, playing phase, and situational pattern (0.810 < κ < 1.000) revealed near-perfect to perfect agreement. Biomechanical details exhibited substantial agreement (0.601 < κ < 0.784). Neurocognitive variables only reached moderate to substantial agreement (0.503 < κ < 0.752), while visual speed estimations proved highly unreliable (-0.106 < κ < 0.412). The checklist is a highly reliable tool for evaluating the contextual and situational patterns of ACL injuries, but visual speed estimation should be removed or replaced by objective tracking technologies.
#28 Relationship Between Emotional States, Emotion Regulation and Executive Functions in Professional Female Football Players
Reference: Sports (Basel).2026 Jun 28;14(7):268.doi: 10.3390/sports14070268.
Authors: Alan de Jesús Gómez-Rosales, Xóchitl Angélica Ortiz-Jiménez,Javier Sanchez-Lopez
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13417764/pdf/sports-14-00268.pdf
Summary: Football performance depends on multiple interacting factors, including physical, technical, tactical, and psychological components. Among the psychological factors associated with optimal performance are athletes‘ emotional states, their regulation, and executive functions. Although executive functions and emotional states have been widely studied in sport settings, research examining the relationship between these variables in athletes is limited, particularly in female football players. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between emotional states, emotional regulation, and performance on cognitive tasks in female players from the Mexican football league. Twenty-eight players participated in two individual assessment sessions in which anxiety and depression levels, emotional regulation, and executive functions-planning, inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility-were evaluated using psychological and neuropsychological tests. Results indicated a positive correlation between decision-making and emotional attention (rho = 0.36;p< 0.05), as well as between depression levels and onset latency in a working memory task (rho = 0.38;p< 0.04). Finally, a negative correlation was identified between the percentage of risk cards and the TMMS attention score (rho = -0.47;p< 0.01). These findings suggest associations between emotional processes and cognitive functioning in professional female football players and warrant further investigation in sport-performance settings.
#29 Impact of a Hybrid Preventive Program Combining FIFA 11+ and Customized Neuromuscular Interventions on Lower-Limb Function and Performance in Recreational Mini-Football Players
Reference: Sports (Basel). 2026 Jun 23;14(7):259.doi: 10.3390/sports14070259.
Authors: Roxana Mihaela Munteanu, Andrei Marian Feier, Bogdan Voicu, Diana Șandru, Arpad Solyom, Tudor Sorin Pop
Download link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13418104/pdf/sports-14-00259.pdf
Summary: Recreational mini-football is associated with a high incidence of lower-limb injuries, largely driven by neuromuscular deficits and insufficient exposure to structured preventive training. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a hybrid injury-prevention program combining the FIFA 11+ protocol with customized neuromuscular interventions on functional performance and injury-related risk factors. Forty male recreational mini-football players were included in a retrospective analysis of data collected during the routine implementation of a 12-week hybrid preventive training program. Participants were allocated to an intervention group (n = 20) or control group (n = 20) according to routine training practices rather than randomization. The intervention was performed twice weekly. Outcome measures included lower-limb strength (Kineo system), dynamic balance (Y-Balance Test), functional hop performance (Single Hop and Side Hop tests), and agility/change-of-direction ability (Illinois and 505 tests). The intervention group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in lower-limb peak force across all muscle groups (all adjusted p < 0.001), as well as in single-leg hop, side hop, and agility/change-of-direction performance (all adjusted p < 0.001) compared to controls. No significant changes were observed in dynamic balance outcomes. A hybrid neuromuscular training program combining FIFA 11+ with customized exercises was associated with improvements in lower-limb strength, hop performance, and agility/change-of-direction ability in recreational mini-football players. These findings suggest that integrating customized exercises into standardized training programs may enhance functional performance and positively influence modifiable factors associated with injury risk.
#30 Sport-related concussion knowledge and attitudes among football players and coaches in Ghana and medical professionals in Nigeria: a cross-sectional study
Reference: Sci Med Footb. 2026 Jul 27:1-14. doi: 10.1080/24733938.2026.2709136. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Nick Dobbin, Sodiq Ayobami Lawal, Kelvin Ehoma Kwaw, Michael Callaghan
Summary: The purpose of this study was to evaluate sport-related concussion (SRC) knowledge and attitudes of football players and coaches in Ghana, and the experience, management practices, and awareness of guidelines in medical professionals in Nigeria. A cross-sectional questionnaire, incorporating the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey and a questionnaire for medical professionals, was completed by 182 football players, 45 football coaches, and 80 medical professionals. Concussion knowledge was poor to moderate among players (40 ± 10%) and moderate among coaches (49 ± 10%), while attitudes were generally positive (61 ± 7% and 62 ± 7%, respectively). Symptom recognition was low among players, with only 11-42% identifying most symptoms, except headache (91%). Coaches recognised more concussion signs and symptoms (50-98%), although dizziness, light sensitivity, and feeling in a fog were identified by fewer than half. Responses to SRC knowledge statements indicated that many respondents answered incorrectly (16 to 75%). Safe responses to various scenarios ranged from 21% to 62%, while unsafe responses ranged from 19% to 60% across both groups. Among medical professionals, 14% had received formal concussion training and 3% SRC training; 96% believed it should be included in professional education. Most medical professionals (>80%) reported good management practices, although confidence in providing discharge advice was low, and awareness of concussion guidelines was low (<20%). These findings highlight the need to improve concussion knowledge and attitudes among players and coaches in Ghana, and to enhance education, awareness, and management medical professionals in Nigeria through structured education and guideline dissemination.
#31 Lateralization of spatial attention: Evidence from line bisections by football officials
Reference: Laterality. 2026 Jul 26:1-12. doi: 10.1080/1357650X.2026.2709757. Online ahead of print.
Authors: Nicola Bruno, Paolo D’Amico, Stefano Uccelli
Summary: The healthy brain shows a hemispheric lateralization biasing attention to the left hemifield, a phenomenon known as pseudoneglect. It is currently still not clear whether this bias can be modulated by training. Football officials represent an ideal population for investigating training effects on spatial attention, given that referees deploy attention across the field in all directions, whereas assistant referees monitor the guidelines back and forth only and allocate attention mostly to the left direction. Here, we assessed attentional biases from referees and assistants by administering a standard line bisection task. Results documented individual differences in bisection errors, with a prevalence, as expected, of errors signalling left attentional biases (i.e., pseudoneglect). Interestingly, this left bias decreased as a function of months of expertise for the referees group, whilst it remained essentially constant for the assistants group. This finding represents evidence that prolonged training in allocating attention to both visual hemifields can counteract the left attentional bias typical of most individuals.