Are you not being entertained? The decline of the open-play goal
In the current football season, the trend of scoring goals from open play has seen a notable decline, raising questions among analysts and fans alike. According to a recent report by BBC Sport, the statistics reveal that teams are increasingly relying on set pieces, penalties, and defensive errors to find the back of the net, rather than creating opportunities through fluid attacking play. This shift could be attributed to several factors, including tactical changes by managers, a greater emphasis on defensive solidity, and the impact of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) technology, which has altered the dynamics of goal-scoring chances.
For context, the report highlights that in previous seasons, teams often showcased their attacking prowess with a high number of open-play goals, contributing to a more dynamic and entertaining style of football. However, this season’s data indicates a significant drop, with many clubs struggling to break down well-organized defenses. For instance, clubs that once thrived on fast-paced counter-attacks or intricate passing movements have found it increasingly difficult to score from open play. The article notes that this trend may also be influenced by the rise of teams prioritizing defensive strategies, often leading to a more cautious approach to games. As a result, the average number of open-play goals per match has decreased, prompting discussions about the overall entertainment value of the sport and the tactical evolution of teams.
Moreover, the decline in open-play goals has led to a growing reliance on set pieces, as teams look to capitalize on free kicks and corner situations to secure victories. This shift has sparked debates among fans and pundits about the future of attacking football and whether teams will adapt their strategies to encourage more open play. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see if teams can find innovative ways to break down defenses and restore the excitement of open-play scoring, or if the current trend will continue to dominate the landscape of football.
Open-play goals have been on the decline this season and BBC Sport takes a closer look at the trend.
