The Data-“Eye-Test” Spectrum in Football Analysis

The data-vs-eyes debate in football is not a dichotomy but a spectrum. Without any videos, you miss out on precious information. Without any data, you miss out on precious information. If you really want to answer (or begin to answer) a specific question, you’ll need to ensure you place yourself as close to the optimal location on the spectrum as possible… Read More The Data-“Eye-Test” Spectrum in Football Analysis

Defensive Transition: Shifting My Lens From Attack to Defense

If you were to look at almost any event from an attacking/in possession lens, you will likely come to a different answer to the question “why did that happen?” than if you viewed that event through a defensive lens. I’ve been trying to change my perspective recently, and this article documents some of my thoughts.… Read More Defensive Transition: Shifting My Lens From Attack to Defense

Moving Towards Better Data Analysis of Defensive Play: One Proof of Concept – Pressures

This is a first step towards trying to get a better view of defenders and defensive skills using event data. I examine ball receipts under pressure and subsequent actions to see if attackinng-player-focused event data can be used as a proxy for defensive actions… Read More Moving Towards Better Data Analysis of Defensive Play: One Proof of Concept – Pressures

Shogi And Football: The Japanese Version of Chess And Its Copious Parallels to The Beautiful Game

Article by Ben Griffis We widely use chess as a metaphor for soccer tactics, and the mere idea of a person playing chess invokes a romantic air of strategy and wisdom. Recently, Louis Vuitton ran an ad featuring Messi and Ronaldo playing chess—likening their careers to that of a chess match, where each player is… Read More Shogi And Football: The Japanese Version of Chess And Its Copious Parallels to The Beautiful Game

Dissecting the USA’s Defensive Block & Pulisic’s Free Defensive Position: How the US Defended England’s Buildup

England and the USA played to an energetic and exciting 0-0 draw in the 2nd Group Stage match of the 2022 World Cup. This article examines the USA’s effective defensive block tactics that stifled England’s buildup, diving deeper into Christian Pulisic’s asymmetrical positioning.… Read More Dissecting the USA’s Defensive Block & Pulisic’s Free Defensive Position: How the US Defended England’s Buildup