Highlights: What are the main findings? a) International CP football players show superior sprinting, change-of-direction, and dribbling performance in field tests compared to national-level players, particularly in FT1 and FT2 sport classes. b) In FT2 players, high-intensity running during matches, measured by inertial sensors, was the most accurate predictor of international selection status. What is the implication of the main finding? a) Physical performance tests and wearable sensor data can objectively differentiate elite CP football players, providing evidence-based tools for talent identification. b) Integrating these assessments into national selection strategies may enhance the accuracy and fairness of international team recruitment in para-football. Abstract: This study analyzed the physical performance (via field tests) and in-match physical responses (via wearable inertial sensors) of national and international cerebral palsy (CP) football players competing in Spain`s First Division. A total of 80 players (FT1: n = 22; FT2: n = 48; FT3: n = 10) completed sprinting, change of direction, and dribbling tests. In-match data from 74 players were collected across 56 official matches. Players were classified as "international" (candidates for the national team) or "national" (non-candidates). Statistical analyses identified performance differences and predictors of international selection using multiple discriminant analysis. International players outperformed national ones in sprinting, agility, and dribbling, especially in FT1 and FT2 classes (p < 0.05; large effect sizes). In-match data (analyzed for FT2 only) showed that international players covered more distance at all intensities and executed more high-intensity actions (e.g., maximal velocity, ball contacts). High-intensity running was the strongest predictor of international status (74.5%, Wilks` ? = 0.86, p = 0.01). Change of direction and dribbling were key discriminators in FT1 and FT2, while no clear predictor emerged in FT3. These findings support the use of physical tests and wearable technology for evidence-based talent identification and selection in CP football.
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