Analysis of pressing in soccer

Abstract

This paper considers the tactic of pressing in soccer. The investigation defines the conditions that constitute a traditional press, which then permits the identification of pressing situations using tracking data. The data consist of matches from the 2019 season of the Chinese Super League. Descriptive analyses suggest that traditional pressing is associated with more turnovers when the pressed player is given less time on the ball and as the intensity of the press increases (i.e. more pressers). It is also observed that counter-pressing is associated with better outcomes than a traditional press. Statistical modeling provides further insights with respect to pressing. For example, it is observed that pressing is associated with better outcomes when it is initiated deep and central in the opponent’s end of the field.