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Data Visualizations

The objective of this project was to visually compare the playing styles of two different football teams using polar area graphs (also known as radar charts). Normalization of the data was performed to accommodate variations in statistical values and emphasize proportional comparisons.

Steps Taken

1. Data Collection and Preprocessing

  • Comprehensive statistics of both teams were gathered, covering various metrics such as goals scored, possession percentage, total passes, shots on target, tackles won, etc.
  • Data normalization: The statistics were normalized to a common scale (usually between 0 and 1) to ensure fair comparison despite differences in the magnitude of values. Ratios, like accurate passes/total passes, were used to standardize the data.

2. Polar Area Graph Construction

  • Selected pertinent statistics that reflect the playing style of the teams.
  • Developed polar area graphs: Each axis of the polar area graph represents a statistical metric (e.g., goals scored, possession, passing accuracy, shots on target, tackles won). The values on the axes were normalized to maintain consistency.

3. Interpretation and Analysis

  • Polar area graphs enable a comprehensive visual comparison between the playing styles of the two teams. Similarities and discrepancies in their statistical profiles can be easily identified.
  • Analyzed the patterns: Focused on sectors where the shapes of the polar area graphs intersect or diverge significantly. Areas with similar shapes indicate analogous playing styles, while variations highlight differences in their strategies.

4. Observations and Insights

  • Identified similarities: Similar shapes or closely aligned areas in the polar area graphs suggest comparable playing styles in certain aspects, such as possession, passing accuracy, or defensive strategies.
  • Noted differences: Distinct shapes or significant gaps in the polar area graphs indicate divergent strategies or strengths in specific areas, such as offensive tactics, defensive prowess, or ball possession strategies.

5. Conclusion and Recommendations

  • Concluded by summarizing the comparison: Highlighted key findings regarding similarities and differences in playing styles between the two teams.
  • Offered insights into potential implications: Provided recommendations or insights for coaches, analysts, or scouts based on the observed playing style comparisons.

6. EXAMPLES

  • Concluded by summarizing the comparison: Highlighted key findings regarding similarities and differences in playing styles between the two teams.
  • Offered insights into potential implications: Provided recommendations or insights for coaches, analysts, or scouts based on the observed playing style comparisons.