Influence of carbohydrate supplementation on skill performance during a soccer match simulation

Objectives This study investigated the influence of carbohydrate supplementation on skill performance throughout exercise that replicates soccer match-play. Design Experimentation was conducted in a randomised, double-blind and cross-over study design. Methods After familiarization, 15 professional academy soccer players completed a soccer match simulation incorporating passing, dribbling and shooting on two separate occasions. Participants received a 6% carbohydrate–electrolyte solution (CHO) or electrolyte solution (PL). Precision, success rate, ball speed and an overall index (speed-precision-success; SPS) were determined for all skills. Blood samples were taken at rest, immediately before exercise, every 15min during exercise (first half: 15, 30 and 45min; second half: 60, 75 and 90min), and 10min into the half time (half-time). Results Carbohydrate supplementation influenced shooting (time×treatment interaction: p<0.05), where CHO attenuated the decline in shot speed and SPS index. Supplementation did not affect passing or dribbling. Blood glucose responses to exercise were influenced by supplementation (time×treatment interaction: p