Touch restrictions and player numbers during small-sided games in youth soccer players: Effects on physical and technical parameters

Jäger J, Rumpf M, Barrett S, Meixner B, Lochmann M (2026)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2026

Journal

DOI: 10.1177/17479541261450910

Abstract

This study examined how player numbers and touch restrictions influence physical and technical demands during small-sided games (SSGs) in youth soccer. Sixteen U15 players completed 3v3, 5v5, and 7v7 formats under one-touch (1 T), two-touch (2 T), and free play (FP) conditions on regular goals, with a constant relative pitch size, four 3-min bouts, and 3-min passive recovery between bouts. Physical variables (total distance [TD], high-intensity distance [HID >14.4 km/h], sprint distance [SpD >19.8 km/h], peak speed, sprint counts, number of accelerations [ACC > 2 m/s²] and decelerations [DEC > - 2 m/s²]) and technical actions (ball touches, releases, possessions, one-touch plays) were recorded using inertial measurement units. Generalized linear mixed-effect models, with exponentiated regression coefficients, showed that ball touches increased from 3v3 to 5v5 across all touch conditions (30–39%), whereas ball releases were primarily elevated in larger formats under 2 T conditions (35–37%). Sprint frequency was higher in larger formats across touch conditions, while SpD decreased from 3v3 to 7v7 (−26% to −27%). Increases in DEC in 3v3 were observed only under 2 T (42%) and FP conditions (49%). Isolated increases in 5v5 compared to 7v7 under 2 T (+31%) were shown for HID. Lower player numbers consistently increased DEC and individual ball involvement, especially under 2 T and FP conditions, whereas larger formats promoted sprint frequency and SpD. These findings suggest that adjusting player numbers is generally more effective than modifying touch restrictions, but combining both strategies can optimize specific physical and technical outcomes in youth players when employing SSGs.

Authors with CRIS profile

Involved external institutions

PlayerMaker LTD United Kingdom (GB)

How to cite

APA:

Jäger, J., Rumpf, M., Barrett, S., Meixner, B., & Lochmann, M. (2026). Touch restrictions and player numbers during small-sided games in youth soccer players: Effects on physical and technical parameters. International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching. https://doi.org/10.1177/17479541261450910

MLA:

Jäger, Johannes, et al. "Touch restrictions and player numbers during small-sided games in youth soccer players: Effects on physical and technical parameters." International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching (2026).

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