A new double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study examined whether acute coffeeberry extract ingestion could enhance soccer performance in trained male academy players. Twenty athletes completed two trials 300 mg coffeeberry extract versus a matched placebo before participating in a 45-minute half-match simulation with dribbling, passing, and sprinting tasks, followed by a high-intensity run-to-fatigue test. Results showed that coffeeberry improved maintenance of short-passing speed and accuracy compared to placebo, while sprinting, dribbling, and overall running capacity remained unaffected. Subjective fatigue and energy levels, as well as blood glucose and lactate responses, were similar across trials. Interestingly, no chlorogenic acid or caffeine was detected in plasma post-ingestion, suggesting the benefits may stem from cognitive or neuromuscular effects rather than direct metabolic action. These findings highlight coffeeberry extract as a potential acute ergogenic aid for soccer-specific skill performance, warranting further exploration of its mechanistic role in neuromuscular function.
Source : https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1440244025004153
