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Multivariate analysis of ball possessions effectiveness in elite futsal

Abstract The aim of the present study was to identify the importance of ball possessions effectiveness in elite futsal according to space- and task-related indicators and situational variables. The sample was composed of 2327 ball possessions, corresponding to 9 close matches (1 goal of score difference) and selected from the playoff matches of the Spanish Futsal League (2012–2013). The binary logistic regression and classification tree (Exhaustive-Chi-squared Automatic Interaction Detection) multivariate models were used to identify the best predictor variables on the most successful ball possessions. Results from binomial logistic regression emphasised the relationships of ending in the goalkeeper’s area and half-court defensive pressure with effectiveness. The individual defence, set play, and 0–3 passes used were found to be related to unsuccessful ball possessions. The classification tree results identified higher effectiveness during stopped balls or during set play that ended in zones 80, 60, 41, 20 and 10, and used more than 4 passes. Additionally, negative effects were observed in set plays that used less than 4 passes, individual defences and ended in zones 90, 70, 61, 40 and 30. The identified trends allow coaches to improve strategic plans that involve selecting the most appropriate offensive and defensive approaches when performing ball possessions in futsal.