Comparative analysis of the technical–tactical characteristics and position-specific features of the top four teams and their opponents in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the technical–tactical and performance indicators of the top four teams and their opponents at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, with particular focus on positional differences.
Methods: The analysis included 38 key variables related to passing, attacking, defending, and physical performance. Data processing was conducted using SPSS 29.0, applying a General Linear Model (GLM) and post hoc EMMeans analyses. The main effects and interactions of team (Top 4 vs. opponents) and position were examined.
Results: The team had a significant effect on the number of attempts passes (p<0.001; η²p=0.031), the number of completed passes (p<0.001; η²p=0.043), the completions of passes (p<0.001; η²p=0.042), completed of line breaks (p<0.004; η²p=0.01), the completion of line breaks (p<0.002; η²p=0.012), indirect pressure (p<0.001; η²p =0.017), pushing on (p<0.003; η²p=0.011), and pushing on into (p<0.004; η²p=0.01).
The defenders and midfielders of the Top 4 teams showed higher passing activity, more completed and attempted line break, and better high-intensity running performance in Zone 4 than their opponents playing in these positions.
Conclusions: The findings confirm that the top four teams’ success was based on a structured, possession-oriented playing style characterized by high passing and attacking activity. Performance analysis provides valuable insights not only for scientific under-standing but also for practical football applications, including training design, tactical planning, and youth development. Identifying the indicators that distinguish elite teams helps to better understand the elements leading to success and to apply them effectively in practice.