Ingesting a 12% Carbohydrate-Electrolyte Beverage Before Each Half of a Soccer Match Simulation Facilitates Retention of Passing Performance and Improves High-Intensity Running Capacity in Academy Players

Ingesting a 12% carbohydrate plus electrolyte solution before each half of a 90-minute soccer match simulation improved high-intensity running capacity by 13% compared to a placebo.

• Passing accuracy for both dominant and nondominant feet was better maintained during the match simulation with the carbohydrate solution.
• The improvement in passing accuracy was 9% for the dominant foot and 13% for the nondominant foot.
• Passing speed was better maintained in the nondominant foot with a 5.3% increase during the match simulation.
• Capillary blood glucose levels were significantly higher at halftime and after the high-intensity running test with the carbohydrate solution compared to placebo.
• No changes were observed in dribbling speed, accuracy, or sprint speed during the match simulation.

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