Influence of the modalities of soccer, seven-A-side, eight-A-side and eleven-A-side in the technical-Tactical demand in U-12 soccer players

Abstract

The aim of the study was to analyze the influence of the game modalities applied to the soccer competition in U-12 category on the technical-Tactical demand. During the 2016-2017 season, 18 men s soccer matches in Spain were analyzed, 6 by modality (eleven-A-side, n = 6; seven-A-side, n = 6; eight-A-side, n = 6), recording a total of 7.275 technical-Tactical actions. The dependent variables were grouped into offensive variables (start of the attack, progression of the attack, end of the attack and dribbles) and in defensive variables (defensive organization and recovery of possession). To analyze the difference between variables based on the type of game modality, the one-way ANOVA test with Tukey post hoc was used. The main results indicated that eight-a-side is a modality that enhances the execution of the offensive phase, and the build up and end of the attack through nearby passes. On the other hand, F11 encourages the start of the attack made through distant passes and attack moves through individual technical actions. Defensive technical actions are also enhanced in eight-A-side with more situations of withdrawal and high pressure in this modality. The dimensions of the pitch and the number of participating players are decisive in the technical-Tactical actions of the U-12 soccer players.