Game-based learning strategies to enhance tactical awareness in youth football: a mixed-methods study - a systematic review

Background and purpose Game-based learning has become an increasingly popular pedagogical approach in physical education, particularly in the context of early childhood football. This strategy is believed to be able to increase the tactical awareness of young players through a contextual, fun, and meaningful gaming experience. This study aims to systematically review various studies that examine the effectiveness of game-based learning strategies in improving the tactical understanding of young football players. A mixed-methods approach is used to integrate quantitative and qualitative findings from a variety of relevant sources. Material and methods This study selected scientific articles from Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases, with inclusion criteria in the form of publications in the last 10 years, focusing on participants aged 10–18 years, and involving a game-based intervention. Results From the results of the initial selection of 74 articles, a total of 21 studies met the criteria and were further analyzed. The results show that methods such as Teaching Games for Understanding, small-sided games, and conditioned games are consistently able to improve tactical understanding, decision-making, and active involvement of young players in training. In addition, this approach also supports the social development and intrinsic motivation of the participants. Conclusions Game-based learning strategies are effective in increasing tactical awareness and should be integrated into the early childhood coaching curriculum. Advanced research is recommended to explore its long-term implementation and adaptation to different cultural contexts.