Match intensity and soccer players' performance based on playing time

This study aimed to compare match intensity between the first and second halves of a season for a high-profile team and to assess player performance based on playing time. Methods: Data from 54 matches were analyzed using 10 Hz GPS (Vector S7, Catapult Innovations). Intensity variables included Maximum Speed, Maximum Acceleration, Total Distance per minute played, High-Intensity Distance per minute played (>19.8 km/h), Sprint Distance per minute played (>25.2 km/h), Multiple Intense Actions per minute played, High-Intensity Accelerations and Decelerations per minute played (>2 m/s²), Explosive Efforts per minute played, Direction Changes per minute played, and Vertical Jumps per minute played. Results: T-test analysis revealed higher Maximum Speed in the second half of the season compared to the first (p=0.034), while Maximum Acceleration was greater in the first half (p=0.026). One-way ANOVA showed that players who played up to 15 minutes had higher intensity per minute played (p<0.05) but exhibited lower peak Maximum Speed and Maximum Acceleration (p<0.05). Conclusion: At the start of the season, Maximum Acceleration was higher without reaching peak speed due to the focus on physical preparation. As the season progressed, Maximum Acceleration decreased, but Maximum Speed increased. Additionally, playing time was a determining factor, as players with less than 15 minutes on the field struggled to reach their maximum speed and acceleration capacities, suggesting that more targeted warm-ups could be beneficial.