24 Jul Analysis of Substitute Efficiency in LaLiga EA Sports 2023/24 Season: A Goal-per-Minute Approach
Abstract
This study examines the goal-scoring efficiency of substitute players in LaLiga EA Sports teams during the 2023/24 season. The goal-per-minute metric is used to assess the effectiveness of substitutes, comparing it with that of starting players. The implications of substitution timing, the number of changes made, and the distribution of playing time between starters and substitutes are also explored. The results reveal superior efficiency from substitutes in several teams, providing a strategic perspective on resource management.
Introduction
In professional football, effective use of substitutes can significantly influence a match’s outcome. Coaches must decide not only who should come off the bench but also when and under what circumstances. This study aims to analyze the efficiency of substitute players in terms of goals per minute played in LaLiga EA Sports 2023/24. The goal is to better understand how and when substitutes can positively impact team performance.
Methodology
Data from each team were used, including the percentage of playing time by starters and substitutes, the percentage of goals scored by each group, and the specific minutes of substitutions. The goal-scoring efficiency of substitutes was calculated by dividing the number of goals scored by substitutes by the percentage of playing time they received. Normalization was performed to provide a fair comparison between starters and substitutes.
Results
1. Efficiency Comparison Between Starters and Substitutes
The initial comparison showed that, on average, substitutes had an efficiency of 2.67 goals per minute, compared to 1.74 goals per minute for starters. This indicates that, despite playing fewer minutes, substitutes are more effective in terms of goals per minute played.
2. Analysis by Match Outcome
A positive correlation was observed between substitute efficiency and match results. In won matches, substitutes’ efficiency was 3.72 goals per minute, significantly higher than in drawn (1.52 goals/minute) and lost matches (1.81 goals/minute).
3. Effect of the First Substitution
The analysis of the first substitution showed that later substitutions (after 61 minutes) were associated with higher goal-scoring efficiency (2.87 goals per minute) compared to earlier substitutions (2.52 goals per minute).
4. Use of Substitutes by Teams
The ranking of teams by the percentage of time given to substitutes revealed that Atlético de Madrid leads with 14% of total playing time allocated to substitutes, followed by Athletic Club and RCD Mallorca, both with approximately 12%. This analysis highlights the teams that make the most use of their benches.
Limitations of the Study
This analysis presents certain limitations that must be considered when interpreting the results. First, the goal-scoring efficiency of substitutes may be influenced by the specific context in which the substitutions are made, such as the need to recover from a deficit or maintain a lead. Additionally, data on the scoreline at the time of each substitution were not available, limiting a complete understanding of tactical decisions. Lastly, the variability in the quality and role of substitutes across different teams can affect direct comparability between teams.
Discussion
The results indicate that substitutes can be a valuable resource, especially in terms of goal-scoring efficiency. The higher efficiency observed in substitutes suggests that coaches could benefit from greater rotation or introducing substitutes at strategic moments. However, it is essential to consider the context of the match and the nature of the substitutions, as not all minutes played by substitutes occur under equal conditions.
Conclusion
This study provides a detailed view of substitute efficiency in LaLiga EA Sports, highlighting the importance of substitution strategies. Coaches can use these findings to optimize the use of their players and maximize the impact on match results.