Home Advantage in futsal

Abstract

In this chapter we will synthesise the main findings on the analysis of home advantage (HA) in futsal. The effects of HA in futsal will be discussed considering three main topics: (i) HA and win-rate; (ii) HA and game dynamics; and (iii) HA and players’ readiness for performance. Regarding HA and win-rate, playing at home is advantageous for the home team when the number of points was considered but not for the final game score. The analysis of HA and game dynamics in futsal revealed that variables such as the quality of the opposition, the ball possession, the number of goals, the first goal scored, or the shooting chances expressed a positive effect of playing at home. Finally, the analysis of HA and players’ readiness for performance through analysis of hormonal response revealed contradictory results between the considered studies. While one suggested that playing away represented more challenging stress demands, the other suggested the opposite. Further research is required in futsal particularly on this topic.