Average goals scored per game played at the World Cups — there used to be more goals in the past; since 1962 no World Cup averaged at more than 3 goals per game [OC]
Submitted by ikashnitsky t3_zbsn4m in dataisbeautiful
What was it that dropped it from 4 to 3 starting in the 1960s? A rule change or an innovation in defense strategy?
The early 60s was when the back 4 became prevalent as a tactic, rather than the wm or variations thereof, so my suspicion is that's driven the change, but I might be forgetting another factor
Agreed, if you read the book “inverting the pyramid: history of soccer tactics” Brazil’s 4-2-4 in 58 WC inspired most to play 4 back, and Soviets started to play 4-4-2 as early as mid 60’s
Is it good? I’ve been thinking about gifting it my dad for christmas, he’s very into tactics
It’s good but it focuses more on pre 2000’s tactics. If you want to read more about modern tactics I recommend Zonal marking.
Thank you very much!
It's very good - I've only read the first edition that stops around 2008 with Spallettis striker less Roma side, so can't comment on the newer editions and how they handle the rise of tiki taka etc, but the historic stuff is excellent
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It would have been very satisfying if the offside rule had been implemented at that time - would explain the graph. But no, that was already in place.
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