National teams in Women’s Soccer World Cup from 1991 to 2015: participation, performance and competitiveness
A summary of the research:
The article "National Teams in Women's Soccer World Cup from 1991 to 2015: Participation, Performance, and Competitiveness" examines the evolution of national teams' performance in the FIFA Women's World Cup over its first seven editions. The study analyzes data such as the number of participating teams, total goals scored, and goal differences across matches. It highlights how the tournament expanded from 12 teams in 1991 to 24 teams in 2015, indicating the growing global interest in women's soccer. The findings show that teams from North America, Europe, and Asia—specifically the USA, Germany, and Norway—dominated in terms of performance and frequent appearances in quarterfinals. Furthermore, there was a noticeable decline in goals scored per game and goal differences over time, reflecting increased competitiveness among teams.
The research suggests that the enhanced competitiveness is due to technical and tactical improvements in women’s soccer worldwide, leading to more balanced matches. The study also identifies that nations with the highest levels of participation and success in the tournament are those that invest the most in women’s soccer, both in terms of youth development and infrastructure. This underscores the importance of institutional support in driving success on the international stage.
Key Takeaways:
Growing global participation: The Women's World Cup expanded from 12 to 24 teams between 1991 and 2015, showing the sport's increasing global appeal.
Increased competitiveness: A decline in goals per game and goal differences reflects a more competitive and balanced playing field as the sport has developed.
Investment correlates with success: Countries like the USA, Germany, and Norway, which have invested heavily in women’s soccer, consistently perform well in the tournament
Authors: Julia Barreira & Carlos Eduardo Da Silva
You can read the whole article here.
