How to win a football match

This episode explores the metrics beyond goals and assists that contribute to winning football matches. The discussion begins with an analysis of "second balls," highlighting how winning possession after aerial duels, even if seemingly archaic, is crucial for top teams like Everton and Brentford. More significantly, the panelists delve into the importance of physical profiles in winning second balls, citing Brighton's strategy against Manchester City as a prime example. As the discussion pivots to on-ball metrics, the use of expected goals (XG) and expected assists (xA) is debated, with the panelists acknowledging their limitations and suggesting focusing on first-time assists as a more reliable indicator of creativity. In contrast, field tilt, a measure of territorial dominance, is discussed, with Nottingham Forest's success despite low field tilt presented as a counterpoint to the general correlation between territory and wins. Finally, the episode touches upon the role of progressive passes and carries, successful take-ons, and set pieces, concluding that while some metrics like progressive passes are generally associated with successful teams, others like set-piece proficiency are not always essential for victory.