06 Ago Unveiling the Secrets of Crosses in LALIGA: What Sets Champions Apart from Relegated Teams?
Introduction
In the thrilling 2023/24 season of LALIGA EA Sports, teams fought fiercely for glory. Some triumphed, securing their spot in the Champions League, while others faced the bitter descent to relegation. But what metrics in the game, specifically in crosses into the box, differentiate the winners from the losers? Through detailed data analysis and the use of advanced machine learning techniques, we unravel the keys to this difference.
Contextualization of Data
This analysis focuses exclusively on crosses into the box originating from open play, meaning we exclude set-piece situations such as free kicks and corners. By isolating these dynamic plays, we aim to provide a clearer picture of the strategies and player actions that contribute to successful crossing opportunities during the fluid phases of the game.
Analysis of Crosses into the Box
Key Metrics
Statistical analysis and machine learning have revealed that certain metrics are crucial for the success of crosses into the box. The main metrics are:
- Probability of Scoring a Goal
- Distance of the Cross
- Number of Teammates in the Box
- Number of Opponents in the Box
Scientific Findings
Importance of Metrics
Probability of Scoring a Goal: This metric is the most significant. Teams that qualified for the Champions League had a higher probability of scoring from each cross. This suggests greater precision and effectiveness in their attacks.
Distance of the Cross: Crosses from shorter distances tend to be more effective. Teams that played in Europe made crosses from closer ranges compared to relegated teams.
Number of Teammates in the Box: Champions League teams usually have more players in the box during crosses, increasing the chances of success.
Number of Opponents in the Box: Interestingly, relegated teams faced fewer defenders in the box during crosses, which might indicate issues in other areas of the game, such as the ability to create effective plays.
Ranking of Players and Teams
Top 5 Players with Highest Percentage of Completed Crosses (more than 20 crosses attempted):
- J. ARAUJO (UD Las Palmas) – 47.83%
- I. RAKITIC (Sevilla FC) – 44.74%
- BRAHIM (Real Madrid) – 42.31%
- AIHEN (Real Sociedad) – 37.93%
- F. DE JONG (FC Barcelona) – 34.78%
Top 5 Teams in Probability of Scoring a Goal
- REAL MADRID – 0.1812
- FC BARCELONA – 0.1800
- GIRONA FC – 0.1795
- ATLETICO DE MADRID – 0.1789
- ATHLETIC CLUB – 0.1785
Significant Differences Between Groups
Champions vs. Relegation
Distance of the Cross: Champions League teams made crosses at an average distance of 24.05 meters, while relegated teams did so at 24.65 meters.
Number of Teammates in the Box: Champions League teams had an average of 2.63 teammates in the box compared to 2.33 for relegated teams.
Number of Opponents in the Box: Relegated teams faced an average of 3.99 opponents in the box, compared to 4.67 for Champions League teams.
Advanced Analysis: Machine Learning
Using Random Forest models, the importance of these metrics was validated, highlighting the Probability of Scoring a Goal as the strongest predictor. This approach allowed for the identification of non-linear patterns and complex interactions between variables, providing a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to success in crosses.
Conclusion
This analysis not only illuminates the crucial metrics that differentiate successful teams from those struggling to survive but also offers a roadmap for coaches. By optimizing these key areas, teams can improve their effectiveness in crosses and, ultimately, their league standings.