Effects of 8 Week Plyometric Training on Shooting Accuracy and Ball Control in Male Soccer Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Murad Khaleel Hasan Al-Zerkani; Lotfali Bolboli

Authors

Murad Khaleel Hasan Al-Zerkani Department of Sport Physiology, Faculty of Educational Science and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran. Author
Lotfali Bolboli Professor of Sport Physiology, Department of Sport Physiology, Faculty of Educational Science and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran. Corresponding Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7981-4343

Keywords:

Plyometric training, shooting accuracy, ball control, soccer, randomized controlled trial, neuromuscular adaptation

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of an 8-week periodized plyometric training program on shooting accuracy and ball control in male soccer players aged 17–20 years. In this randomized controlled trial with an active control group, 24 male soccer players (age: 18.5 ± 1.0 years) were allocated to either a plyometric training group (PTG, n=12) or an active control group (ACG, n=12), both with matched training volume. Both groups followed identical technical-tactical programs. Shooting accuracy was assessed using the Moore Christian soccer ability test, and ball control was evaluated via a zigzag dribbling test. Data were analyzed using one-way ANCOVA with baseline scores as covariates. After 8 weeks, the plyometric group significantly outperformed the control group in both skills. Shooting accuracy improved by 19.4% (vs. 3.2%), and dribbling speed improved by 5.8% (vs. 1.0%). The effect was larger for shooting (ηp² = 0.33) than dribbling (ηp² = 0.24). Physical improvements (CMJ: +12.9%, 10m sprint: -4.2%) moderately-to-strongly correlated with technical gains (r = 0.58 for shooting, r = 0.71 for dribbling). In conclusion, plyometric training enhances both explosive power and technical skills without increasing total training time. An 8-week periodized plyometric training program, implemented as a replacement for low-intensity tactical drills without increasing total training time, significantly improved both shooting accuracy and dribbling speed in late adolescent male soccer players.

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