Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the differences in the dynamics of the action of the game in numerical inequality in water polo according to the state/fitness? of the team at the end of the match (win or lose). We analysed 1230 micro situations drawn from the 96 games played in the World Championships in Barcelona-03 Water polo. We used a synchronous, nomothetic and timely design. The unit of analysis was the simple temporary numerical inequality with Possession. An inductive deductive process was followed in order to develop the system of categories from which an observation instrument for measuring the outcomes. Differences were statistically significant (p < .05) on variables related to rules (forms completed), space (launch position, origin of the last pass and introduction of the ball in goal), gestures (launch preparation, type of launching and receiving pre release) and driving strategy (tactical game systems and repossession after launch). These differences in the dynamics of the game’s action could explain the superior performance of the winning teams of the games.