In-Match Physical Requirements and Team Performance in Cerebral Palsy Football Across a Competitive Season

This study aimed to analyze the in-match physical requirements of cerebral palsy football (CP football) players over an entire national league season (56 matches) and their relationship with team performance-related metrics. Key variables examined included total distance, distance at different intensities, acceleration/deceleration patterns, and ball contacts at various intensities. Statistical analyses (one-way ANOVA, <i>t</i>-tests, Pearson's correlations, and multiple linear regressions) were conducted to identify differences and predictive relationships between these physical requirements and team success indicators (ranking position, points, and goal-related outcomes). Higher-ranked teams covered significantly greater total and walking distances (t = 2.73 and 3.09, <i>p</i> < 0.01). Total distance had the strongest relationship with team performance (r = 0.91-0.99, R² = 0.82-0.99), followed by walking and low-intensity distances (r = 0.71-0.92, R² = 0.66-0.88) and certain acceleration/deceleration actions. In contrast, no significant differences were found in high-intensity actions or ball contact patterns between teams with different performance-related outcomes. These findings suggest that success in CP football is closely related to total distance, particularly at low intensities, indicating a strong connection between physical requirements and tactical strategies. These insights are valuable for coaches and sports professionals, helping to optimize match strategies and training approaches to enhance team performance.