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Stay updated with the latest public health research, commentary, and field notes from our editorial team.

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Do Small-Sided Games Actually Improve Game Intelligence?

January 13, 2026 · 5 min read

Small-sided games (SSGs) have become a popular training tool in soccer, with the claim that they not only enhance technical skills but also boost “game intelligence.” But what does the research say about these benefits, and how do SSGs contribute to a better understanding of space and decision-making on the pitch? What Are Small-Sided Games? […]

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Development

Do Small-Sided Games Actually Improve Game Intelligence?

Small-sided games (SSGs) have become a popular training tool in soccer, with the claim that they not only enhance technical skills but also boost “game intelligence.” But what does the research say about these benefits, and how do SSGs contribute to a better understanding of space and decision-making on the pitch? What Are Small-Sided Games? […]

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Health

Understanding Muscle Recovery Times in Soccer

There has been growing interest in understanding muscle recovery times in athletes, particularly in the high-intensity world of soccer. This interest is not unfounded, as the ability to recover swiftly and effectively from strenuous activities can significantly impact a player’s performance on the field. Science Alert provides insights into how muscle recovery mechanisms work, with […]

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Development

Does Early Specialization Actually Help Young Soccer Players?

When it comes to developing talent in soccer, one of the most hotly debated topics is early specialization—whether focusing on soccer at a very young age is the best route to long-term success. Let’s explore what early specialization entails, the potential benefits and drawbacks, and what current research suggests about its role in youth soccer […]

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Strategy

What Makes Goalkeepers Win

Picture a tight match on a Sunday morning. Your keeper hasn’t faced many shots, but every time the ball goes back to them, the whole team exhales. The build-up stays calm. The defense steps higher. The opponent hesitates. Now flip the script. Same number of saves, but shaky distribution, rushed clearances, and poor decisions under […]

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Analytics

AI That Sees the Game Differently

You’ve probably had that moment on the sideline: your team is pressing well… until suddenly it isn’t. A winger stops tracking, a center back steps too early, or the midfield loses shape—and the whole system breaks. You know something went wrong, but rewinding it later never quite captures the full picture. Now imagine if a […]

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History

The Influence of Menstrual Cycles on Soccer Injuries and Recovery

Recent scientific developments have brought to light an intriguing aspect of women’s sports, focusing on how the menstrual cycle may affect athletic performance and injury recovery. Professional football players, in particular, have shown to experience varied recovery times dependent on the phase of their menstrual cycle. Key Findings in Soccer Science According to a study […]

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Strategy

What Tracking Tech Misses in Real Soccer

Every coach has been there: you check your tracking data after training and think, “There’s no way that was just jogging.” A winger hits a stop-start move, explodes down the line, cuts sharply inside—and the GPS report labels half the effort as “moderate running.” A new study helps explain why this happens—and what we can […]

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Health

The Neurological Impact of Heading in Soccer: A Deep Dive into the Latest Research

The is a potential neurological risk associated with one of soccer’s fundamental techniques: heading the ball. Recent studies have highlighted the various impacts of repeated soccer heading on brain structure and function, raising concerns about the long-term health implications for players. The Neurological Effects of Heading: What the Science Says A comprehensive study conducted by […]

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