Effects of small-sided games training on physical performance in youth team-sport athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of small-sided games (SSG) on physical performance in youth team-sport athletes. Methods: Four databases (Web of Science Core Collection, PubMed, Scopus and Embase) were searched. Methodological quality and certainty of evidence were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, with the review conducted and reported in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. All statistical analyses and meta-analyses were conducted using STATA 18.0. Results: A total of 15 studies involving 494 participants were included. Compared with control groups, SSG significantly improved maximal aerobic capacity (SMD = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.30 to 1.27, p = 0.001), intermittent high-intensity endurance (SMD = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.70 to 1.40, p< 0.001), sprint acceleration (SMD = -0.55, 95% CI: -1.02 to -0.09, p = 0.019), change-of-direction ability (SMD = -0.85, 95% CI: -1.38 to -0.33, p = 0.001), and lower-limb explosive power (SMD = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.25 to 0.96, p = 0.001), whereas no statistically significant improvement was observed for maximal sprint speed (SMD = -0.30, 95% CI: -0.70 to 0.10, p = 0.142). Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that small-sided games training generally benefits physical performance in youth team-sport athletes. Consistent improvements were observed in intermittent high-intensity endurance, sprint acceleration, lower-limb explosive power, and change-of-direction ability, with additional benefits for maximal aerobic capacity, whereas effects on maximal sprint speed appear limited. Future studies should aim to refine SSG training protocols and clarify how specific training configurations influence maximal sprint speed and other match-related performance outcomes in youth team-sport athletes. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD420261295914.