The influence of red cards on match-running performance in elite soccer

This study examined the influence of red cards on match-running performance in elite soccer. In total 14,938 individual match observations from 644 professional players who competing in the First Spanish soccer league over 2021/22 season were collected. Soccer players were classified according to their playing position. Total distance (TD), high-speed running (HSR, >21 km h−1), sprinting speed running distance (Sprint, >24 km h−1) and the number of sprints (> 24 km h−1) per minute were analysed. The superiority or inferiority scenarios, the minute of the red card, the match location, and the match status were also considered. The results showed that red cards significantly impacted on match running performance, with teams at a numerical advantage covering less TD (p < .05) and engaging in fewer sprints (p < .05). Home teams with an extra player covered significantly less TD (p < .001). Teams with an extra player experienced diminished performance when teams at a numerical disadvantage improved the scoreline. Finally, the minute of the red cards had a negative effect on teams with a numerical disadvantage, and a positive effect on teams with numerical advantage. Coaches should consider tactical adjustments and recognise the psychological implications of numerical advantages for effective game management.