A Comparison of Physical Abilities and Match Performance Characteristics Among Elite and Subelite Under-14 Soccer Players

This study aimed to identify characteristics of match performance and physical ability that discriminate between elite and subelite under-14 soccer players. Players were assessed for closed performance and movement, physiological responses, and technical actions during matches. Elite players covered more total m.min(-1) (115.7 +/- 6.6 cf 105.4 +/- 7.7 m.min(-1)) and high-intensity m.min(-1) (elite = 14.5 +/- 2.3 cf. 11.5 +/- 3.7 m.min(-1)) compared with subelite players. Elite players also attempted more successful (0.41 +/- 0.11 cf. 0.18 +/- 0.02) and unsuccessful ball retentions.min(-1) (0.14 +/- 0.04 cf. 0.06 +/- 0.02) compared with subelite players. Elite players were faster over 10 m (1.9 +/- 0.1 cf 2.3 +/- 0.2 s) and faster dribblers (16.4 +/- 1.4 cf. 18.2 +/- 1.1 s) compared with subelite players. Speed (10 m) and successful ball retention.min(-1) contributed to a predictive model, explaining 96.8% of the between-group variance. The analysis of match performance provides a more thorough understanding of the factors underlying talent among youth soccer players.