Coaching strategies and performance patterns in elite Italian football: a comparative analysis of possession and direct-play styles

The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness 2026 Open access

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Authors: Bruno Ruscello, F. Cantore, Gabriele Morganti, Elvira Padua, Cristoforo Filetti, Marco Porta, Gianluca Briotti, Laura Pantanella
DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.25.17359-3
Cited by: 0
References: 56

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This study examines how coaching strategies influence performance patterns in elite Italian football, comparing the possession-based "building-from-the-back" style with a direct approach. METHODS: Observational data from all 380 matches of the 2022-2023 Serie A season, sourced from a public online platform, were categorized by playing style based on goalkeeper distribution patterns. RESULTS: Teams favoring the "building-from-the-back" strategy (Group 1) achieved superior results compared to those adopting direct play (Group 2). On average, Group 1 earned more points (63.8±14.4 vs. 40.2±14.1, P

Fields of Study & Subjects

Sport Psychology and Performance Sports Analytics and Performance Sports Performance and Training

Publication details

Journal / source
The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness
Volume
66
Issue
1
Pages
47–56
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN