Investigating metrics and performance behaviours that significantly differentiated winning and losing teams during the 2022 FIFA World Cup
Keywords:
FIFA World Cup, KPIs, performance metrics, winning losing teamsAbstract
The FIFA World Cup has been widely studied using different methodologies and objectives. This study investigated metrics that statistically distinguished winning from losing teams in the knockout stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, aiming to highlight tactical trends of modern football. Data was sourced from “Wyscout” match-reports regarding the 16 knockout matches, but five were excluded for being decided by penalties, leaving 11 games (n=11). A total of 270 metrics were analysed using One-Way ANOVA and Cohen’s D Effect Size (ES) to identify key differences. Winning teams showed significant indicators such as counterattacks (ES 3.60), goals in the 1st half (ES 2.43), total goals (ES 2.17), goals-minus-expected-goals ratio (ES 2.13), key passes (ES 2.12), and expected-goals created from the left-flank (ES 2.04). Losing teams conceded more goals (ES -2.43), had higher possession late in the game (ES -2.03), and more right-flank attacks (ES -1.34). Results suggest winners scored early thanks to their efficiency creating chances and effectiveness in scoring, then defended compactly in a low block, forcing opponents into high possession and right-flank play, which winners exploited through same-side counterattacks with accurate and longer passes. These findings can guide coaches in training design, tactical planning, and match preparation.
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