Small-sided games as an integrated training strategy: effects on aerobic endurance and passing performance in adolescent soccer players - a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Small-sided games (SSG) are increasingly used in youth soccer training because they simultaneously expose players to physiological, technical, and perceptual-cognitive demands similar to competitive match play. However, evidence regarding their combined effects on aerobic endurance and passing performance in adolescent players remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effects of an eight-week SSG training program on aerobic endurance and LSPT performance in young male soccer players. METHODS: Eighteen licensed youth male soccer players (mean age: 17 ± 0.4 years) were randomly allocated to an experimental SSG group (n = 9) or a control group (n = 9). The experimental group performed SSG-based training sessions three times per week for eight weeks, using formats that varied in pitch dimensions, player numbers, and tactical constraints to elicit high-intensity and decision-making stimuli. The control group continued their regular technical-tactical training without SSG exposure. Aerobic endurance and LSPT performance were assessed before and after the intervention using the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (Yo-Yo IR1) and the Loughborough Soccer Passing Test (LSPT). Data were analyzed using a mixed two-way ANOVA (group × time), and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Significant group × time interactions were observed for both performance outcomes. The SSG group demonstrated substantial improvements in LSPT performance (F(1,16) = 3844.00, p < 0.001, η²p = 0.996) and Yo-Yo IR1 distance (F(1,16) = 1648.60, p < 0.001, η²p = 0.990), whereas the control group showed only trivial and non-significant changes. These results indicate that SSG training effectively associated with improvements both aerobic capacity and technical passing ability. CONCLUSIONS: An eight-week SSG training program was associated with improvements in aerobic endurance and LSPT performance in youth soccer players. SSG provide an ecologically valid and time-efficient training method by integrating metabolic load with technical and decision-making demands. Incorporating structured SSG formats into periodized training programs may support performance development in youth soccer. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT07755358. Registered on 5 August 2026.