It is not (all) about running faster, opponent also plays; the effect of opposition team formation on running performance in professional soccer match-play

This study investigated the effect of opponent team formation on physical performance during professional soccer matches. Physical performance was measured from all teams (n = 32) in all UEFA Champions League matches (n = 125) during the 2022/23 season. Metrics included total distance (TD) and running at low- (LIR), moderate (MIR), and high-intensities (HIR). Data were obtained using an optical tracking system and were compared in relation to opponent team formation: 4-2-3-1, 4-3-3, 3-4-3, and 3-5-2. Results indicated that (i) central defenders (CDs) in teams organised in 3-5-2 performed more HIR (d = 0.52) against 4-2-3-1 compared to 3-4-3 system; also, in teams organised in 4-2-3-1, CDs covered more TD (d = 0.57) and HIR (d = 0.58) against 4-2-3-1 compared to 4-3-3; (ii) central midfielders (CMs) in teams organised in 3-4-3 performed more HIR against 3-4-3 compared to 4-2-3-1 (d = 0.82) and 4-3-3 (d = 0.81); also, in teams organised in 4-2-3-1, CMs performed more HIR (d = 0.56) against 3-5-2 compared to 3-4-3; (iii) fullbacks involved in teams organised in 4-2-3-1 covered more HIR (d = 0.84) against 3-5-2 compared to 3-4-3. Physical performance in defensive and midfield players was notably affected by opponent team formation. As such, team selection policy and physical preparation strategies for matches against specific formations should arguably be tailored accordingly.