Spatial characteristics of pitch-passing networks under four situational variables in the UEFA Women's euro 2025: a social network analysis

This study utilized social network analysis to explore the spatial characteristics of pitch-passing networks under four situational variables in the UEFA Women's Euro 2025, including match outcome, competition stage, score state, and match period. The pitch was divided into 48 distinct zones, and six network metrics were calculated. The results indicated that winning teams construct more efficient mediating links within pitch-passing networks, with a stronger reliance on flank-area utilization. From the group to the knockout, passing hubs shift from the defensive third toward the middle third and transitional zones, alongside enhanced local stability and circulation in the attacking third. Competitive pressure further reshapes the contribution of spatial regions to ball progression and network accessibility. In different score states, leading teams tend to maintain structured possession corridors in the defensive third to control risk, whereas trailing teams concentrate activity in central areas, exhibiting higher midfield intensity but reduced stable local passing structure. A significant decline in the physical capability of the pitch-passing networks was observed, with the 1st half characterized by broader distribution and stronger structural integration, and the 2nd half showing reduced connectivity and local intensity. Overall, this study provides actionable and targeted practical guidance and performance analysis. Coaches are encouraged to prioritize flank-area utilization through drills incorporating diagonal runs, wide-area link-up play, and rapid passing along the sideline, while promoting efficient ball circulation in the final third via small-sided and constrained training tasks.