Conclusion

In conclusion, imposing a touch restriction during 4v4 SSG was associated with greater acute increases in serum BDNF and faster completion time in the incongruent color‐word interference condition of the Stroop test compared with free‐play SSG. Moreover, the cognitively constrained format was associated with greater technical effectiveness, particularly in successful passing and shooting actions. These findings suggest that task design may be important for creating cognitively stimulating soccer training environments. Accordingly, coaches may consider strategically increasing cognitive demands within SSG by limiting ball touches to support acute neurotrophic responses, executive function performance, and technical effectiveness. This approach may be particularly relevant in youth or skill‐development settings, where cognitively stimulating practice environments could contribute to technically and cognitively engaging practice conditions.