Small-Sided Games in Youth Football: Advancing Technical–Tactical Performance and Social Inclusion for Sustainable Development

Gheorghe-Dan Paun (), Razvan Sandu Enoiu and Marius Dumitru Dima
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Gheorghe-Dan Paun: Faculty of Physical Education and Sports, University Spiru Haret, 041917 Bucharest, Romania
Razvan Sandu Enoiu: Department of Motor Performance, Faculty of Physical Education and Mountain Sports, University Transilvania of Brasov, 500068 Brasov, Romania
Marius Dumitru Dima: Faculty of Physical Education, Sports and Physiotherapy, Romanian-American University, 012010 Bucharest, Romania

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 21, 1-18

Abstract: Sport has long served as a powerful vehicle for promoting social inclusion, particularly among marginalized youth. Football, due to its global appeal and participatory nature, is uniquely positioned to bridge social divides while fostering technical and tactical development. This study explores the dual function of small-sided games (SSGs) in advancing both performance outcomes and inclusive dynamics within youth football contexts. Utilizing a longitudinal case study of a Romanian U14 team during the 2022–2023 season, we implemented a tailored SSG training program aimed at enhancing offensive play and team cohesion. Performance was assessed using key technical and tactical indicators, with data analyzed via SmartPLS structural equation modeling. Results demonstrated statistically significant improvements in several offensive and defensive metrics, including crosses, collective goal-scoring, and ball recovery actions. Importantly, the format of SSGs facilitated equitable participation, reinforcing inclusionary practices. The findings support the integration of SSGs not only as effective pedagogical tools for football training but also as mechanisms for fostering social development through sport. This study underscores the strategic potential of SSGs in aligning youth athletic training with broader educational and social inclusion objectives.

Keywords: small-sided games; football training; youth development; social inclusion; technical–tactical performance; sustainable development; SmartPLS (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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