Analysis of goal scoring and performance indicators in the 2020-2021 Greek soccer league

• Published in: Journal of Physical Education and Sport 2022-01, Vol.22 (1), p.91-99
• Main Authors: Stafylidis, Andreas, Michailidis, Yiannis, Mandroukas, Athanasios, Gissis, Ioannis, Metaxas, Thomas
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Business metrics; Scoring; Soccer; Software; Statistical Analysis; Success; Team Sports; Tournaments & championships
• ISSN: 2247-8051; 2247-806X
• DOI: 10.7752/jpes.2022.01011

Problem Statement: Goals scored from open play or set play and performance indicators in soccer have been mostly investigated separately. Purpose: The present study aimed to analyze game-related performance indicators and goals scored from set play and open play, in the 2020-2021 Greek soccer league. Methods: In total, 140 goals scored from open play and 82 from set play (222 goals) were analyzed. The analysis of performance indicators and goals has been conducted using data from all 91 matches of the first round in the 2020-2021 Greek Soccer League. Results: Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in goal scoring from open play (63.06%) and set play. During the 2nd half of the game 61.71% of goals were achieved. The fewest goals (9.01%) were scored during the first 15 minutes of the game, whereas most goals (30.63%) were scored during the last 15 minutes (75-90+'). Statistically significant (p < 0.05) lower averages were found in the game-related performance indicators of the winning teams in the defensive game and higher in the offensive compared to drawing teams and losing ones. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were also observed in the performance indicators in the offensive game (ball possession%, corners, total shots and shots on target) and in the defensive game (red cards, total shots and shots on target received). Furthermore, home advantage had an impact on game-related statistics, while achieving the first goal is essential for the teams' success. Conclusions: It is crucial for the teams' success to score the first goal in the match, while players should be prepared by the coaching staff to cope better with fatigue in the last minutes of the game, as well as to be more effective in set play.