08 Jul Analysis of the Influence of Spatial Dispersion on Football Team Performance
Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between the spatial dispersion of football teams on the field and their performance in terms of match results. We introduce a new concept called the «dispersion area,» which measures a team’s spatial organization during offensive and defensive phases. Using data from LaLiga EA Sports for the 2023/24 season, we analyze the differences in spatial dispersion among teams in European spots, relegated teams, and the rest. The findings reveal that a compact defense is associated with better results for high-performing teams, while an expansive attack benefits relegated teams.
Introduction
Spatial analysis in team sports has gained relevance in sports research, especially in football, where tactical positioning and team organization on the field can significantly influence match outcomes. This study introduces the «dispersion area» metric to evaluate how a team’s spread around their center of mass (centroid) relates to their performance.
Methods
Data
The data used in this study come from LaLiga EA Sports matches for the 2023/24 season. Each record includes information on the team, the match, the stretch index (in attack and defense), the collective centroid (offensive and defensive), and goals scored and conceded.
Calculation of the Dispersion Area
The dispersion area was calculated using the formula for the area of a circle, where the stretch index acts as the radius:
This calculation was performed for both offensive and defensive phases.
Team Grouping
Teams were grouped into three categories based on their performance during the season:
- European Spots: Teams that qualified for European competitions.
- Relegated: Teams that were relegated to a lower division.
- Rest: All other teams.
Statistical Analysis
ANOVA tests were conducted to determine if there were significant differences in offensive and defensive dispersion areas among different match results (win, draw, lose) within each performance group.
Results
European Spots
Defensive Dispersion:
- ANOVA: F(2,263)=4.353,p=0.014
- Interpretation: Teams that qualified for European competitions show significantly lower defensive dispersion in matches they win. This suggests that a more compact and organized defense is associated with better results.
Relegated
Offensive Dispersion:
- ANOVA: F(2,111)=3.687,p=0.028
- Interpretation: Relegated teams present significantly higher offensive dispersion in matches they win. A more expansive and spread-out attacking style seems to be related to better results for these teams.
Rest
No significant differences were found in offensive or defensive dispersion areas based on match results.
Discussion
The results indicate that a team’s spatial organization on the field has a considerable impact on their performance. For high-performing teams, a compact defense is crucial for securing victories. In contrast, relegated teams benefit from a more open and expansive attacking approach.
These findings can have practical implications for coaches and performance analysts. For instance, coaches of high-performing teams could focus on maintaining a compact defense throughout the match, while coaches of relegated teams might implement tactics that promote a more open and expansive attacking style.
Conclusion
This study introduces the concept of «dispersion area» as a useful metric for analyzing the spatial organization of football teams. The findings highlight the importance of adjusting dispersion strategies according to the phase of the game and the team’s context to optimize results. Future research could explore how these dynamics vary in different leagues and levels of competition.