Exploring the predictive ability of perceived self-efficacy in futsal implications for player selection and interpretation of competitive performance

Objective: Analyze the predictive value of perceived self-efficacy as a psychological variable affecting the performance of futsal players, and to investigate its feasibility as a practical tool in player selection .This objective stems from the urgent need to develop more comprehensive selection mechanisms that go beyond traditional physical and skill tests to incorporate psychological indicators with a deeper explanatory nature, especially in sports known for their high competitive pressure, such as futsal. Research methodology: The sample included (153) players from Iraqi Premier League futsal clubs. Their self-efficacy levels were measured using a standardized scale, along with an objective assessment of technical and tactical performance. The results of the analysis of variance and regression analysis showed that self-efficacy significantly contributes to distinguishing performance levels, explaining more than 60% of the total variance. Result: The results of the study confirmed the positive impact of perceived self-efficacy on the athletic performance of futsal players, whether through significant differences between different psychological levels (as shown by the ANOVA test), or through the high predictive power demonstrated by multiple regression analysis, where self-efficacy explained 61.1% of the variance in athletic performance. Conclusions: Perceived self-efficacy is a psychological variable with strong significance in explaining athletic performance. The results showed significant differences between players depending on their levels of self-efficacy, favoring those with higher levels.