A data-driven framing of player and team performance in U.S. Women's soccer
A summary of the research:
The article "A Data-Driven Framing of Player and Team Performance in U.S. Women’s Soccer" examines key performance metrics of the U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT) and compares them to other women's and men's national teams. Using data from over 500 matches, the study identifies areas where the USWNT excels, such as shot-taking, goal-scoring, and dribbling. The analysis reveals that the USWNT takes more shots from high-quality areas, scores at a higher rate, and presses opponents more intensely compared to other teams. These performance advantages are attributed to their tactical and technical skills, making them a leading force in international women's football. Additionally, the study highlights the differences between the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) and the English FA Women's Super League (FAWSL), showing that FAWSL teams outperform NWSL in passing accuracy and dribbling.
The study concludes that the USWNT's success is rooted in its technical superiority, with tactical emphasis on offensive pressure and shot selection. However, at the club level, the NWSL has room for improvement, particularly in goal-scoring efficiency and passing accuracy. The findings suggest that as European nations invest more in women's football, the gap between U.S. teams and their competitors is narrowing.
Key Takeaways:
USWNT excels in shot-taking and goal-scoring: The USWNT takes more shots from optimal areas and scores at a higher rate compared to other teams.
FAWSL outperforms NWSL in passing: English teams have better passing accuracy and dribbling performance compared to their U.S. counterparts.
USWNT's pressing strategy is key: The USWNT applies intense defensive pressure higher up the pitch, disrupting opponents' ball control
Authors: Sachin Narayanan & N. David Pifer
You can read the whole article here.
