Comparative analysis of positional running demands in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup: influence of team strength and confederation

This study examines positional differences in running performance during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, focusing on the moderating effects of team strength and confederation. The sample comprised 63 matches. Eight running performance variables were analysed, including total distance (TD), distances at five speed zones (DZ1–DZ5), number of sprints, and maximum speed. One-way and two-way ANOVAs were conducted to examine the effects of player position, confederation, and team strength on running performance. Players position significantly influenced all running performance variables. Significant position and confederation interactions were found in DZ1, DZ2–DZ5 and sprints (p < 0.05). For instance, CONMEBOL players exhibited higher DZ1 values across most positions (p < 0.05), while UEFA players had higher DZ4 in central backs (p < 0.05), but lower sprint frequency in wide midfielders (p < 0.01). Significant position and team strength interactions were observed in DZ3–DZ5 and sprints (p < 0.05). Top-teams had greater sprint distances and frequencies in defensive positions, whereas wide midfielders from low-teams performed more high-speed actions than those from top-teams. Running performance in elite football is shaped not only by positional roles but also by confederation and team strength. Coaches can design targeted training based on the physical characteristics of the opponents to improve the players’ running performance during the game.