The pacing and styles of play between Euro 2024 and Copa America 2024 have shown significant differences. An X sports data analyst looked at how the two tournaments differed in terms of passing as well. This can be attributed to several factors. For example, play styles, physicality, officiating, environmental conditions and even the dimensions of the pitches play a role.
While ball-in-play time would ideally quantify the pacing of matches, pass volume provides a reasonable heuristic. However, the relationship between pass volume and match pacing can be counterintuitive. For instance, high pass volumes, as seen in Euro 2024, often reflect slow, possession-based play. Nonetheless, lower pass volumes in Copa America 2024 may indicate a more direct and physical style of play.
For instance, in the 2024 European Championship match between Italy and Albania, the passing frequency was 12.2 per minute. Whereas, in the match between Ecuador and Jamaica, it was 6.1 per minute, which is twice as low. Also, Italy completed 809 passes against Albania’s 372, while Ecuador completed 275 passes compared to Jamaica’s 332.
Compared to the Euro, the Copa does not have much more extra time; mainly because of fewer fouls and dead-ball situations. Added time in both tournaments offers insights into match intensity and interruptions:
The first period of added time in Euro 2024 is 1.58 minutes, while in Copa America, it is 2.75 minutes. On the other hand, the second period added time in Euro is 4.62 minutes, and in Copa America, it’s 4.71 minutes. Despite slight differences in added time, this does not fully explain the observed pacing variations.
Euro 2024 and Copa America differ in quality for several reasons
However, the distinct play styles between the tournaments significantly influence the pacing. Passing at Euro 2024 is short, deliberate, and focused on maintaining possession. Teams often prioritize ball control and tactical positioning, leading to higher…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/euro-vs-copa-america-why-is-there-big-difference-in-quality/
Author : Martina Alcheva
Publish date : 2024-07-11 16:43:38
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