Analysis of the technical-tactical actions of the goalkeepers at the Women's World Cup 2023

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the technical-tactical actions of the soccer goalkeepers participating in the matches of the Spanish National Team in the Women's World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand. For this purpose, a descriptive study was carried out using observational methodology to record the technical-tactical actions (n=432) performed by nine goalkeepers who played in seven matches of the 2023 Women's World Cup. From each of the technical-tactical actions, the following variables were analyzed: (a) obtaining the mobile; (b) goalkeeper action; c) displacement prior to the offensive action, d) length, e) orientation, f) precision, g) shot completion, h) time, i) type of previous action, j) micro-space of center or pass, k) part of the body with which the player centers or gives the pass, l) micro-space of shot, m) player who finishes, n) part of the body with which the shot at goal is taken, o) jump, p) fall, q) displacement in defensive action, r) stretching, s) technical action of the goalkeeper, t) intensity of the action, u) safety in handling the mobile, v) micro-space of goalkeeper action, w) micro-space of shot and x) goal. The most significant results showed a greater predominance of offensive actions over defensive ones, the most common offensive action was the foot pass (45%), most actions were previous displacement (92.5%) and the most performed defensive action was blocking (45.6%). These results show the importance of the goalkeeper in both the offensive and defensive play of the team. These data can help coaches and soccer professionals to optimize the training processes of goalkeepers and improve their performance in adult stages, as well as to improve the training process of young soccer goalkeepers.