Comparative Analysis of Backcourt Feinting Plays in Women’s Handball: Asia vs. Europe

Abstract

This study examines the characteristics of feinting plays performed by women’s national handball teams from Asia and Europe, emphasizing the contrasting approaches and tactical tendencies between regions. It identifies key factors that provide an advantage in one-on-one situations. The sample comprised feinting plays observed in one-on-one situations from three matches per focal team in each of the 2019 World Championship, 2021 Olympic Games, and 2021 World Championship. After systematically observing and analyzing match footage, descriptive performance analysis was conducted using chi-square tests and residual analyses. The findings revealed distinct regional patterns: (i) European teams most frequently executed feinting plays with slow approaches, moderate distances, frontal positions, and two-leg stops, highlighting their methodical and structural style; (ii) Asian teams most frequently employed rapid approaches, greater distances, dominant arm side positions, and 0–1 stops, reflecting a dynamic and speed-oriented approach; and (iii) for both European and Asian teams, feinting plays at greater distances were more effective. These results elucidate the specific characteristics of feinting plays across regions, generating insights that should guide feinting coaching strategies tailored to the regional strengths and styles.