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Writer's pictureCesar Vidal

How Far Does A Soccer Player Run in A Game?

Updated: Feb 14, 2023

The distance a soccer player runs during a game can vary depending on factors such as the player's position, style of play, and field size. However, on average, a player can run between 3 to 7 miles per game.


Midfielders and forwards tend to cover more ground than defenders since they are responsible for creating and scoring goals. They need to be constantly on the move, making runs, chasing the ball, and making passes. Defenders, on the other hand, have a more stationary role in the team, making fewer sprints and covering less distance than their attacking counterparts.


How Far Do Defenders Run in A Soccer Game


In soccer matches, defenders tend to run less than midfielders and forwards. They have a more stationary role in the team, and their primary responsibility is to stop the opposition from scoring.


As a result, defenders typically cover between 2 to 4 miles per game, depending on factors like their position, the size of the field, and their style of play.


While defenders may run less than other players, they still need to be in good physical condition to keep up with the opposition's attacking players.


How Far Do Midfielders Run in A Soccer Game


Midfielders are known for their high work rate and tireless running in soccer matches. They are responsible for creating chances for the forwards, defending, and linking the defense and attack.


As a result, midfielders usually cover the most ground in a game, running between 5 to 7 miles, depending on their style of play, position, and the size of the field.


They are the engine room of the team, responsible for keeping the ball moving and creating opportunities for their teammates. Their ability to run, control the ball, and make accurate passes makes them a crucial part of any successful soccer team.


How Far Do Forwards Run in A Soccer Game

Forwards in soccer matches run more than defenders, covering around 5 to 7 miles per game. Strikers run the most as they are constantly moving, looking for scoring opportunities and making runs into the channels. They require high fitness levels to maintain their energy throughout the match.

They are also involved in pressing the opposition and making runs into the channels, which means they are always on the move.


They require a high level of fitness to keep up with the demands of the game and need to be able to maintain their energy levels throughout the match.

Soccer Distance Records

Marouane Fellaini: He's Here, He's There, He's the One With the Crazy Hair

According to [2], the Premier League record for the longest distance covered in a single match is held by Marouane Fellaini, who ran an incredible 13.12km during a game between Manchester United and Southampton. This is a testament to Fellaini's incredible stamina and work rate, as well as his ability to cover a lot of ground in midfield.

From Buses in Brazil, To Crossing the Whole of Russia

A group of Brazilian soccer players once traveled over 3,000 kilometers by bus to compete in a match in Brazil's Northeast region, as reported by [3]. Meanwhile, the longest road trip ever taken by a soccer team was completed by FC Baltika Kaliningrad, a Russian team that traveled nearly 6,000 miles across Russia in more than 125 hours to play a match, according to [3].


Longest Soccer Throw: Thankfully, Not Rory Delap

Finally, the farthest distance throw of a soccer ball in a competitive match was achieved by Alireza Beiranvand of Iran, who threw the ball an incredible 61 meters and 26 millimeters (200 feet 1.57 inches) during a match against South Korea in 2016, as recorded by [1].




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