Key Performance Indicators in Elite Female Football: Associations Between Sprints, Duels, and Match Results

PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare and analyze the physical, technical, and tactical performance of players according to match results and to examine the associations between these indicators and match outcomes in official FIFA competitions. METHODS: A total of 299 data samples were collected from 27 elite female players (age: 27 [3.4] y) across 34 official matches between 2018 and 2021. Internal load (ie, rate of perceived exertion) and external load metrics were collected via 10-Hz GPS, which included total distance, high-speed running, player load, number of sprints, accelerations, and decelerations. In addition, technical-tactical performance-number of passes, effective passes, duels, successful duels, and goals scored and conceded-was assessed using InStat software. One-way analysis of variance and multinomial logistic regression were applied. RESULTS: Lost matches showed a higher rate of perceived exertion, total distance, player load, and decelerations, whereas won matches presented significantly greater high-speed running, effective passes, and duels (P < .05). Match outcome was significantly associated with high-speed running, duels won, and goals scored/conceded. CONCLUSIONS: Losses are associated with greater physical demands but lower technical-tactical efficiency, whereas wins are characterized by more frequent high-intensity actions and greater technical-tactical effectiveness, particularly in passing and duels. These results suggest that, in female football, performance success depends more on the quality of actions than on overall physical exertion.