Physical Efficiency in Soccer: Relevance, Correlations, and Impacts Using AI Methods

Physical efficiency plays a pivotal role in the success of both individual soccer players and teams. Soccer is a multidimensional sport that demands a harmonious blend of technical, tactical, and physical skills. Essentially, physical efficiency can be defined as a player’s capacity to perform technical and tactical maneuvers at a consistently high level throughout a match while expending the least physiological effort. In essence, physical efficiency in soccer can be viewed as the ability to achieve superior physical performance while minimizing the physiological strain over the course of an entire game. This implies that players must engage in rigorous preparation to ensure their bodies can effectively recuperate post-match. Within this chapter, we aim to provide a more comprehensive elucidation of the concept of physical efficiency, drawing upon findings from pertinent literature. Additionally, we will delve into an evaluation of physical efficiency within the context of a professional soccer team. Leveraging artificial intelligence techniques, we will explore the relationships between different variables, examining how they may correlate with injuries and other game-related factors. This analysis will shed light on the intricate web of connections within soccer’s physical efficiency landscape.