ArticlePhysical activity and nutrition2026
Position-specific differences in match performance of elite U-17 soccer players using GPS-derived external load data: focus on forwards and defenders.
Article in Physical activity and nutrition, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
purposeThe objective of this study was to investigate differences in match performance characteristics between forwards and defenders among elite U-17 soccer players using Global Positioning System (GPS)-derived data.
methodsThis study included 37 elite U-17 soccer players representing Gyeonggi Province. External load data collected during official matches were analyzed. Variables were classified as measures of aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity, neuromuscular performance, and agility and change-of-direction ability. Between-group differences were assessed using independent samples t-tests.
resultsNo significant positional differences were observed in total distance covered, distance per minute, mean speed, or low- to moderate-intensity activity zones (p > 0.05). Compared with defenders, forwards demonstrated significantly higher values for high-speed running distance, a higher proportion of high-intensity activity, maximum speed, and high-intensity acceleration and change-of-direction performance (p < 0.05).
conclusionThese findings suggest that at the elite youth level, fundamental aerobic capacity is similarly developed across playing positions, whereas high-intensity movement and neuromuscular performance capacities vary according to playing roles and tactical demands. Accordingly, training programs and player development strategies should be designed to account for positional characteristics.
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