Author(s): LUO, J., CUI, D., QU, Y., Institution: CHINA INSTITUTE OF SPORTS SCIENCE, Country: CHINA, Abstract-ID: 1492

INTRODUCTION:
High-intensity running (HIR) is a key performance metric in modern football. However, research on HIR in the FIFA Womens World Cup remains limited[1]. This study analyzes 2019-2023 HIR trends using 2023 FIFA Womens World Cup post-match reports and FIFA research. Findings offer scientific insights to support coaches in optimizing training programs.
METHODS:
Data were sourced from the 2019 FIFA World Cup Physical Report and 2023 FIFA Post-Match Summary Reports (116 matches).The analysis focused on full-match players HIR metrics across positions: goalkeepers (GK), forwards (FW), midfielders (MF), and defenders (DF), including total distance, high-speed running (Zone 4: 19-23 km/h), sprint running (Zone 5: >23 km/h), and HIR (>19 km/h). Statistical analysis utilized IBM SPSS Statistics 27 for 2023 data (Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests, p < 0.05). For 2019 data, only percentage changes were calculated due to missing variance and sample size information.
RESULTS:
GK showed a 10.8% decrease in total distance (2019: 5028m; 2023: 4485m), while Zone 4 running increased by 8.3% (2019: 24m; 2023: 26m). Both Zone 5 (2019:6m; 2023:4m) and HIR (2019:30m; 2023:29m) showed minimal changes.
DF showed a 2.1% decrease in total distance (2019: 9,933m; 2023: 9,725m), while Zone 4 running decreased by 5.9% (2019: 425m; 2023: 400m). Zone 5 distance showed minimal change (2019: 164m; 2023: 161m), and HIR decreased by 4.8% (2019: 589m; 2023: 561m).
MF showed minimal change in total distance (2019: 10,717m; 2023: 10,669m), while Zone 4 running decreased by 11% (2019: 526m; 2023: 468m). Zone 5 distance declined by 24.6% (2019: 183m; 2023: 138m), and HIR decreased by 14.5% (2019: 709m; 2023: 606m).
FW showed a slight increase in total distance (2019: 10,267m; 2023: 10,286m), with Zone 4 running increasing by 2.1% (2019: 530m; 2023: 541m). Zone 5 distance increased by 18.2% (2019: 220m; 2023: 260m), and HIR rose by 6.8% (2019: 750m; 2023: 801m).
Statistical Analysis: A significant difference was observed in the total running distance across positions (H = 420.901, df = 3, p < 0.001). Pairwise comparisons of outfield players revealed that FW and MF had significantly greater total running distances than DF (p < 0.001). Regarding Zone 4 and 5, FW had significantly higher distances than MF and DF (p < 0.001).
CONCLUSION:
The results show that FWs metrics have increased, indicating a need for higher demands for HIR. In contrast, DF and MF slightly declined or remained stable, still above 2015 levels. This trend may result from improved player performance, higher match intensity, and advancements in 2023 tracking technology[1]. As in previous studies, DF covered the shortest distances due to defensive duties, while FW led in HIR, highlighting position-specific physical demands[2]. These trends stress the need for targeted training.
REFERENCES:
1. FIFA. (2020) 2. Bradley PS.(2024)