Comparative Analysis of Ball Possessions in Women's Football World Cups
Author Information
Author(s): Iván-Baragaño Iyán, Maneiro Rubén, Losada José L., Ardá Antonio
Primary Institution: Universidad Europea de Madrid
Hypothesis
The study aims to analyze and compare the technical-tactical similarities and differences in ball possession between the FIFA Women's World Cup France 2019 and Australia & New Zealand 2023.
Conclusion
The study found that elite women's football has improved in terms of ball possession and game control over the last four years.
Supporting Evidence
- Statistically significant differences were found in match outcomes and statuses between the two World Cups.
- Possession time and the number of passes increased significantly in the 2023 edition compared to 2019.
- The study utilized a decision tree model to analyze the predictors of match outcomes.
- Teams showed greater technical and tactical efficiency in the 2023 World Cup.
- More teams participated in the 2023 edition, leading to greater parity among matches.
- Defensive intentions showed a significant increase in pressure during the 2023 tournament.
- Match status influenced offensive and defensive strategies in both tournaments.
- The average passing accuracy improved significantly from 2019 to 2023.
Takeaway
This study looked at how women's football has changed over the years by comparing how teams kept the ball in two World Cups.
Methodology
An observational follow-up design was used to analyze 4,669 ball possessions from both tournaments.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the observational methodology and the selection of matches analyzed.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable beyond the analyzed World Cups due to the specific context of each tournament.
Participant Demographics
The analysis included teams from the FIFA Women's World Cup, with a focus on the knockout phases of the 2019 and 2023 tournaments.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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