Coordination pattern in 1-vs-1 situations in women's soccer

Abstract

Research on 1-vs-1 duels in soccer has primarily focused on men's football, leaving coordination dynamics in women's matches largely unexplored. This study aimed to analyze spatiotemporal patterns influencing duel outcomes in women's soccer. Fourteen semiprofessional female soccer players completed 120 1-vs-1 trials under match-realistic conditions. Player and ball trajectories were recorded using a Kinexon^© tracking system (25 Hz) and analyzed for the key coordination variables spatial positioning, acceleration, and speed at two critical time points: the Initiating Moment (attacker's deviation from horizontal axis) and the Last Contact (final attacking action or clearance). Results indicated that greater interpersonal distance and high entry speed favored attacking success, whereas defensive success was linked to shorter distances, effective mirroring, and balanced speed control. Attacker acceleration alone, especially at the early phase, proved insufficient without pre-established speed. Exploratory heatmap analyses suggest spatial tendencies: successful attacks displayed broader lateral movement and exploited left-sided breakthroughs despite players’ right-foot dominance, pointing to potential tactical asymmetries in defensive coverage. These findings underscore the importance of timing, spatial separation, and controlled speed rather than maximal acceleration alone. Practical implications include emphasizing entry speed, weaker-foot finishing, and defensive mirroring in training design. The study provides novel insights into women's 1-vs-1 duel dynamics and highlights gender-specific considerations for tactical and technical development.