Effects of small-sided and conditioned games of passing in sport of football: A systematic review

Abstract

This study conducted a systematic review of research on small-sided and conditioned games (SSCG) of football passing. It comprised four stages: identification of studies, screening, eligibility and inclusion of articles. Eighteen keywords divided into two groups related to the small-sided and conditioned games and the pass were used, totaling 81 combinations between them. The search across six databases was finalized on April 30, 2024. Eighteen articles were included in the systematic review. The main results were: a) SSCG were more effective than decontextualized drills in improving passing performance; b) SSCG from other team sports enabled transfer to football decision-making and passing; c) offensive numerical configurations in SSCG influenced passing differently—superiority enhanced performance, while inferiority reduced it; d) numerical equality improved performance only in specific formats (e.g., GK + 6 vs. 6 + GK); e) fewer players in SSCG led to more passes and better performance; f) passing performance was influenced by SSCG complexity, players’ age, and tactical level—easier tasks and higher tactical performance favored effectiveness, with age groups responding differently to numerical configurations.