2nd Research Article: “Game Intelligence” Applied to Football
Sevilla FC Innovation Center and SkillCorner join forces to drive research in advanced football metrics.
Both organisations will work together on the analysis of Game Intelligence, an automated system for collecting and analysing dynamic in-game event data. This technology provides insights into player performance, including pass selection and execution, off-the-ball movement and defensive contribution, all supported by key physical attributes. Game Intelligence enables the extraction of accurate and actionable data, enriched with the real context of the game.
This study analyses the different behavioural patterns of central defenders in relation to their physical performance profile and the defensive efforts they perform during competition. The main objective is to understand how the physical and defensive demands placed on centre backs vary depending on their team’s tactical context.
Additionally, the study examines the potential relationship between the time teams spend in possession and out of possession of the ball and the predominant defensive block they adopt. To this end, the analysis focuses on the total distance covered by players, as well as the speed and intensity at which these movements are performed, according to the defensive block used. Complementarily, the study explores the relationship between the different types of defensive efforts and the defensive block employed by the team, allowing for the identification of defensive behavioural patterns associated with different tactical styles.
Keywords: Defenders, centre backs, defensive blocks, in possession, out of possession, tactical styles, physical performance, defensive efforts, types of pressing.
The main purpose of this article is to demonstrate the tangible impact of data analysis in professional football, showing how it can transform strategic and operational decision-making within clubs. Furthermore, the study aims to highlight the value of data as an essential tool in the construction of player profiles, thereby optimising scouting processes and talent development. Finally, it seeks to share valuable knowledge with new professionals in the sector, fostering a data-driven culture that can contribute to the advancement of football through innovative analytical methodologies.
Among the objectives of the collaboration, we highlight the following:
-Demonstrating the value of data usage in professional football: Through real case studies drawn from the specific needs and challenges faced by clubs, the aim is to show how data integration can transform strategic and operational decision-making in professional football.
-Highlighting the relevance of the results obtained: The outcomes derived from data analysis provide key insights for the accurate construction of player profiles, enabling a more detailed and objective approach to scouting, talent evaluation and performance optimisation.
-Generating and sharing knowledge with new generations of professionals: Through this collaboration, we seek to contribute to the development of future sports leaders and data analysts by offering valuable insights that enhance their education and bring an analytical perspective to future sporting directions and analysis departments within clubs.
This article is aimed at football professionals, including sporting directors, coaches, data analysts, scouts, and other members of the technical staff of sports clubs. It is also targeted at new generations of professionals entering the football industry, such as students of sport and data analysis programmes, as well as decision-makers within club organisational structures. In addition, it is relevant for technology companies and consultancies specialising in sports data analysis.
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