Impact of training regimens on small-sided soccer games: a scoping review

Abstract

This scoping review aimed to map and summarise the literature examining how different small-sided games (SSG) training regimens affect physical, psychophysiological, technical, and tactical outcomes in soccer players. The methodology followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, where three databases were searched. Eligible studies directly compared at least two SSG regimens (continuous vs intermittent; intermittent formats with differing work durations; or intermittent formats with differing rest durations). In total, 30 studies were included. Across the comparison types assessed, continuous vs intermittent regimens were the most studied, particularly for physiological measures (n = 15), followed by intermittent comparisons manipulating bout duration (n = 15 for physiological, n = 11 for physical outcomes). Studies focusing on rest/density manipulations were fewer, especially for technical outcomes (n = 3). Most studies clustered around mid-sized SSG formats (3v3–5v5), with 4v4 particularly dominant in continuous–intermittent contrasts (n = 9). In contrast, very small-sided formats (1v1, 2v2) and larger-sided formats (6v6, 7v7) were rarely explored under these regimen conditions. Shorter bouts tended to increase external intensity per unit time and total distance, while fractionating continuous play into sets generally raised per-minute intensity and high-speed actions but reduced total volume. In small formats, continuous play tended to elicit higher heart rate, lactate, and enjoyment, though one study suggested females preferred intermittent, whereas males reported greater enjoyment and load with continuous play. Rest duration also appeared to modulate outcomes, with very short recoveries linked to reduced passing success and longer rests enabling better ball actions. In conclusion, current evidence is largely focused on physical and psychophysiological responses, while technical and especially tactical domains remain underexplored. To better inform training design, future research should aim to incorporate objective assessments of technical and tactical outcomes – using objective tools – while also extending to female players, elite levels, and longitudinal designs. These steps would help determine whether the acute responses mapped here translate into consistent adaptations across contexts.