Establishing reference values for the match running performances of thirteen specific positional roles at UEFA Euro 2024
Shuyao Chen, Piotr Żmijewski, Paul S. Bradley
Abstract
) than centre back subsets, defensive midfielders and lone forwards (P < 0.01; ES: 0.9-2.7 and 1.3-2.1). The peak high-intensity running distance in a 1-min period was greater for wide defender subsets compared to centre backs playing in a four-defender system (P < 0.01; ES: 0.9-1.2). More solo runs into key play areas occurred for attacking midfielders and wide forwards than centre back subsets (P < 0.01; ES: 0.9-2.1). Wide forwards performed more solo runs into the penalty area than other positions (P < 0.05; ES: 0.9-2.0). While centre back subsets recovered the ball more often compared to wide defenders, central and attacking midfielders in addition to forward subsets (P < 0.01; ES: 0.8-2.2). These findings provide contemporary evidence regarding the specific positional demands encountered during international matches. This information could serve as a basic framework for practitioners when developing position-specific training.