Exploring the relationship between physical capacities and match running performance in elite U17 football players

This study investigated positional differences in physical capacities and match running performance, and explored how physical capacities influence match running metrics in elite U17 football players. Data were collected from 212 players across 12 teams and 23 competitive matches, classified into five positions: central defenders (CD), full backs (FB), central midfielders (CM), wingers (W), and central forwards (FW). All the players come from the same league level. Analysis using one-way ANOVA and multiple regression revealed significant positional distinctions. FW and CD showed the highest height and weight, while W were significantly shorter and lighter (p < 0.01). CD achieved the best countermovement jump scores, while W outperformed others in 30 m speed, agility, and the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIR1), indicating superior speed and endurance. Conversely, FW had the lowest YYIR1 performance (p < 0.05). Match data showed CM covered the most total, mid-speed, and quick-speed running distances (p < 0.001), while W recorded the highest maximum speed, high-speed running, and sprint distances (p < 0.001). Regression analysis identified 30 m speed as the main predictor of high-speed running, sprint distance, and maximum speed (p < 0.05), while YYIR1 predicted running performance in worst-case scenarios (p < 0.05). Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of position-specific physical training, focusing on speed and agility for attacking players and endurance development for central midfielders and forwards.