RESPONSES OF PHYSIOLOGICAL INDICATORS TO A SOCCER MATCH

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

The performance in soccer depends on several factors, including the knowledge of physiological changes during a match.

Objective:

To identify the hematological, immunological, enzymatic, hormonal and inflammatory changes caused by increased plasma concentrations after a soccer match.

Methods:

The sample consisted of 42 male athletes with a mean age of 25.7±4.6 years, all professional soccer players. All athletes participated during at least 90 minutes in an official soccer match. Blood samples were analyzed 2 hours before the match, immediately after the match, and 24, 48 and 72 hours after the match. Changes in hematological, immunological and enzymatic (total creatine kinase - CKt, lactate dehydrogenase - LDH, aspartate aminotransferase - AST), cortisol, testosterone and C-reactive protein (CRP) biomarkers were analyzed.

Results:

There were changes in the levels of erythrocytes, Hb and Hct, although clinically irrelevant and with no physiological significance. The number of leukocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, eosinophils and lymphocytes showed significant changes (p<0.05). Rising peaks were observed 2 hours after the game for LDH and CRP and 24 hours after the game for CKt and AST (p<0.05). The cortisol concentrations increased significantly after the matches, whereas testosterone levels decreased. These patterns were reversed 24 hours after the match (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

The soccer match does not change acutely hematological parameters. Immune function exhibits a marked leukocytosis with simultaneous expression of neutrophilia and lymphopenia. The soccer matches are sufficiently intense to induce muscle damage, generate a catabolic state, and increase inflammatory reactions.

Keywords:
athletic performance; biomarkers; soccer