Collective high-intensity physical load and team performance in the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile: Match-by-match analysis of finalists
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background: This study aimed to compare the physical and technical-tactical performance profiles of the two finalist teams (Argentina and Morocco) at the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 and to examine the relationships between individual physical loads and collective match performance. Materials and Methods: An observational comparative design was applied using official FIFA match reports. Seven matches per team were analyzed. Physical variables included total distance, distances covered in speed zones (Z3–Z5), high-speed running, sprint distance, and maximal speed, while technical-tactical variables described offensive, defensive, and collective behaviors. Between-team comparisons and correlation analyses were conducted using appropriate parametric and non-parametric procedures. Results: Argentina demonstrated higher high-intensity running demands, particularly in moderate- and high-speed zones, and greater offensive effectiveness, including more shots, shots on target, and line-breaking actions. In contrast, Morocco exhibited a higher volume of collective defensive pressures and greater total team running distance. High-intensity running variables were positively associated with offensive precision, whereas no clear associations were observed with goals scored or defensive indicators. Conclusions: Performance differences between the finalist teams were primarily related to high-intensity physical demands rather than to overall running volume. These findings highlight the importance of integrating physical and technical-tactical analyses to better understand performance determinants in elite youth football.
Institution: Université Ibn-Tofail
Language: English
Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7219594530