Comparative Effect of Cognitive-Perceptual Training on Cognitive Performance Across Playing Positions in Football

Abstract

Background: Football performance relies on cognitive-perceptual abilities that vary by playing position, yet evidence on position-specific cognitive-perceptual training is limited.
Aims: This study investigated the comparative effect of cognitive-perceptual training on cognitive performance among university-level football players across different playing positions.
Methods: Sixty male football players (18-25 years) were categorized as forwards (n = 20), midfielders (n = 20) and defenders (n = 20). Participants completed an eight-week cognitive–perceptual training program using the Vienna Test System. Reaction Speed, decision-making (Cognitrone) and Peripheral Perception were assessed using a pre–post design. Data were analyzed using mixed-design ANOVA.
Result: Cognitrone scores showed a significant main effect of playing position (F(2,57) = 5.17, p =.009, η² =.15). Pre-post changes in Cognitrone scores varied among playing positions, according to the significant Time × Position interaction (F(2,57) = 3.41, p =.040, ηp² =.10). Follow-up comparisons are necessary to identify which positional groups differed considerably, even though midfielders displayed the biggest descriptive mean gain. Peripheral perception (p =.308) and reaction speed (p =.192) did not exhibit significant interactions.
Conclusion: Significant pre-post alterations in cognitive-perceptual performance were found, and Cognitrone scores revealed positional variation. Without suitable follow-up comparisons, the results do not demonstrate better improvement among midfielders, despite the fact that midfielders displayed the largest descriptive gain. The observed changes cannot be exclusively attributed to the training program because the study did not include a non-intervention control group.