Interpersonal interaction during official soccer matches considering the coupling of different playing positions

We analysed the interpersonal interaction between players during official matches considering the coupling of different playing positions. 2D coordinates and technical actions of 204 male professional football players during eight matches were obtained using a video-based tracking system. Dyads were composed of the nearest opponents and the interpersonal distance and frequency were computed. Dyadic distances were used to estimate the pressure index of defensive teams and the relationship with technical performance. Full-backs presented the greatest distances of their opponents. Dyads between defenders and forwards presented the shortest distances and were more frequent. In moments with ball possession the midfielders and forwards have more than one defensive player as the nearest opponent to them. The pressure index of defensive teams was significantly negatively and positively correlated with tackles performed by them, and successful passes of offensive teams, respectively, suggesting that defensive players more distant from the offensive players performed less tackles and provided better conditions for their opponents to perform passes. Interpersonal interaction is influenced by playing positions and maintaining proximity to the opponents can improve defensive technical performance. Information about the interpersonal interactions in real match situations provides the fundamentals for future research and assists coaches in planning tactical training.