This study examined Extremely Demanding Passages (EDP) in professional football, which statistically extend the Most Demanding Passage (MDP) framework by applying an extreme threshold to capture peak physical demands. Additionally, it analysed the differences in technical, tactical, and conditional performance between the MDP and EDP phases. A total of 3,679 observations (3,463 MDP,216 EDP) from 176 matches of the 2021 Chinese Super League were analysed. The results revealed significant differences, specifically in the number of clearances (p<.05), number and success of lateral passes (p<.05), number (p<.001) and success (p <.001) of long passes, number (p<.05) and success (p<.005) of short passes, and average forward pass length (p<.005). The SHAP results reinforced these findings, EDP segments, showed an increased reliance on long and lateral passes, with higher frequencies and success rates, longer forward pass length, and prolonged individual ball possession duration. In contrast, MDP was related to a higher number and success of short passes, indicating an ordered, possession-oriented playing style. The results highlight that EDP, derived from MDP through a statistical threshold, provides a stricter approach to quantifying peak physical demand, involving increased physical effort and tactical changes, underlining the necessity of including both physical and technical factors in training strategies.
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