Research Article
Defensive Stability and Performance Profiles Associated with Competitive Success in Elite Men’s Volleyball:
A Comparative Analysis of Top-Ranked Teams in VNL 2025
K. Ravivuth Rangubhet*
,
Pranee Usiri,
Pichet Chailert
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
22-31
Received:
11 May 2026
Accepted:
19 May 2026
Published:
27 May 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijsspe.20261102.11
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Abstract: This study aimed to analyze defensive stability and performance profiles among elite men’s volleyball teams by comparing key performance indicators (KPIs) of the top-ranked teams in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025. The dataset consisted of 32 team-match observations obtained from Brazil, Italy, France, and Japan during the preliminary competition phase. Across all analyzed matches, the dataset included 124 total sets, 3,349 attack actions, 1,490 blocking actions, 2,887 serve actions, 3,341 setting actions, 2,081 dig actions, and 2,124 reception actions. Match performance data were collected from official Volleyball World statistics and verified using video-based observational analysis through the VBTV platform and Focus X2 performance analysis software. Descriptive statistics (Mean ± S.D.), one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), effect size analysis (η²), and radar chart performance profiling were used to examine differences among teams. Significant differences were observed in successful blocking (F = 5.531, p = 0.004, η² = 0.372), dig efficiency (F = 3.916, p = 0.019, η² = 0.295), dig success (F = 3.586, p = 0.026, η² = 0.278), net ratio (F = 3.435, p = 0.030, η² = 0.268), and dig error (F = 2.965, p = 0.049, η² = 0.241). All significant variables demonstrated large practical effect sizes. Brazil demonstrated the highest attack efficiency (0.407) and performance index values (111.375), whereas Japan and France demonstrated superior defensive-related indicators, particularly in reception and dig efficiency. The findings indicate that elite men’s volleyball performance in VNL 2025 was differentiated more strongly by defensive stability, blocking effectiveness, and transition control than by offensive variables alone. The results further suggest that successful elite teams maintain distinct tactical and performance profiles characterized by balanced defensive structures and reduced performance instability during competition. These findings provide an evidence-based framework for tactical preparation, performance evaluation, and strategic decision-making in elite volleyball competition. Furthermore, the identified defensive-related indicators may serve as potential performance indicators associated with competitive success for future tactical forecasting and match outcome prediction models in elite volleyball competition.
Abstract: This study aimed to analyze defensive stability and performance profiles among elite men’s volleyball teams by comparing key performance indicators (KPIs) of the top-ranked teams in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025. The dataset consisted of 32 team-match observations obtained from Brazil, Italy, France, and Japan during the preliminary comp...
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