Profiling of the positional running performance among FIFA confederations – analysis of the FIFA World Cup 2022

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to identify positional differences in running performance among national teams from different FIFA confederations during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Methods: Data were obtained from the official FIFA Training Centre and included players who completed full matches (642 observations from 59 matches without extra time). Players were classified into six positional groups, and nine running performance metrics were analyzed. Teams were grouped according to FIFA confederation (Asian Football Confederation, AFC; Confederation of African Football, CAF; Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football, CONCACAF; South American Football Confederation, CONMEBOL; and Union of European Football Associations, UEFA). Positional differences were assessed using one-way ANOVA with Scheffe post-hoc tests.

Results: Significant differences in running performance were identified across FIFA confederations. CONMEBOL players generally exhibited lower values in several running performance metrics, particularly among central defenders, defensive midfielders, and forwards. In contrast, CONCACAF players, especially defensive midfielders and full-backs, demonstrated greater high-intensity running performance and higher top speeds. Differences were also observed between CAF and CONMEBOL central midfielders, whereas no significant differences were found for wide midfielders.

Conclusion: The findings indicate distinct positional running performance profiles among FIFA confederations. These results may contribute to a better understanding of inter-confederation differences and support future research integrating physical, technical, and tactical aspects of elite football.