What can cause a player to feel exhausted during a game?

Feeling exhausted during a game is often the result of insufficient rest. When players do not get enough recovery time, whether it's between games or from their overall training regimen, their bodies are not able to recharge fully. This lack of rest can lead to physical and mental fatigue, making it difficult for athletes to perform at their best. Sufficient rest allows the body to repair itself, replenish energy stores, and maintain cognitive function, all of which are crucial during physically demanding activities like football.

In contrast, overhydration can lead to complications but does not directly cause exhaustion. High energy intake can provide the necessary fuel for a game, while cold weather, while uncomfortable, typically doesn't result in exhaustion unless it severely affects the player's health or performance. Thus, the relationship between insufficient rest and exhaustion is more direct, as it fundamentally impacts an athlete's physical condition and readiness.