Scoping review of decision-making measurement tools in soccer

Introduction Several notational analysis tools exist for assessing in-game decision-making of soccer players, but an overview is required to determine best practice. Therefore, this scoping review aimed to assess the tools employed when measuring decision-making in soccer. Methods Following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines (Tricco et al., 2018), we conducted a systematic search. Articles were screened for relevance, and full-text articles meeting inclusion criteria were charted, with relevant data extracted. Results Out of 3,824 articles found, 14 were included, with the majority published in the last decade (n = 10). Most tools addressed decision-making across all game phases (n = 10), whereas some focused solely on the offensive (n = 3) or defensive phase (n = 1). There were 131 technical and tactical decision-making types across studies and game phases, which were classified into 57 groups, such as penetrative pass and creating a passing option. Frequency counts of successful or unsuccessful decisions predominated, with greater success rates in more skilled and older players compared to less skilled or younger. Discussion & Conclusion Variation in phases and categories used highlight difference in measuring decision-making, suggesting the potential for convergence towards a single tool that is applicable to both soccer research and practice.