One of the best parts of sports is hidden in its complex diversity. Whether you enjoy its competitive aspects or perhaps you prefer focusing on its entertainment value, every person has their own motivation to participate in sports. And as time goes by and societal preferences change, the sporting landscape changes accordingly. 

Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing former professional footballer, Filippo Galli, whose progressive thinking and dedication to perfecting his craft has led him on an exciting journey of discovery and innovation. Known as someone who is not afraid to take risks, Filippo has never shied away from a challenge – a quality that has shaped him into the person he is today. As we sit down for our interview, Filippo opens up about his football journey and shares the importance of keeping up with technology in football. 

## A boyhood dream

Arguably one of the best defenders of his generation, Filippo Galli's story begins at his boyhood team, AC Milan. He spent 14 seasons with the “Rossoneri”, earning 5 Serie A titles, 3 European Cups, and a special place in football history. His career journey then took him to several different clubs before finally ending up at third-division side Pro Sesto which would also be the last chapter in his professional playing career. 
Despite his success, Filippo remains humble when describing the start of his career. “I grew up in the youth sector of AC Milan. I was actually quite lucky because I played during a fantastic period with great ownership and innovative coaches like Arrigo Sacchi and Fabio Capello, with whom we won almost every domestic and international trophy”.

![Filippo Galli as a young player in AC Milan.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Galli_young_5f8087dc43.jpg)

With over 450 professional games and a stacked trophy cabinet, Filippo’s time as a player was lengthy and certainly memorable. And whereas most professional players would simply hang up their boots and enjoy retirement, the former defender had other, more ambitious plans. 

## A new beginning

Following his departure from professional play, the former Serie A winner decided to open a new chapter in his life – this time, on the other side of the sideline. Filippo became the coach and was shortly after appointed as the Director of AC Milan’s youth sector, a position of vast importance for the future development of the organization. 

At the time of his appointment, emerging technologies such as data analytics and tracking started getting introduced to the world of football. Although some people might be intimidated by change, Filippo was already aware of the potential of such innovations. “When I was a player, we didn’t really use data or technology in our training processes. At the time, we only had VHS tapes that helped us analyse games but that’s about it. The first time I truly saw the potential of data and analytics was in 1994 when we played against PSG in the Semifinal of the UEFA Champions League. I wasn’t in the starting eleven, but I studied a lot of film to be prepared in case I had to play. Just 15 minutes into the game, I was subbed in for Tassotti and I immediately knew how to counteract their attackers. This experience truly showed me how important it is to study and analyse your opponents”.

![Filippo Galli wearing the classing, white AC MIlan shirt in game. ](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Galli_young_2_2338c7b757.jpg)

## Finding your style

Filippo quickly adapted his own style of coaching, one that integrates the usage of data and statistics to complement the style of play and vision of the team. “I believe that the use of data is strategic. It is instrumental not only in match analysis but also in scouting. When selecting new players, some people consider only their physical data – how fast they can run, how high they can jump, etc. However, I believe that we should use data to choose players who best fit the style of play of the team and complement the overall project in general.”

![Filippo laughs as he reminisces about his playing days.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/P1000182_1a205ac7c8.JPG)

Although important, Filippo believes that it is essential for players to be compatible with their teammates and complement the development of those around them. When talking about his data-driven philosophy, the former pundit also stresses the importance of using technical data to delve deeper into the quality of a player. “I always look for players that fit the system. Once you find a player who suits the game model, we can utilize data to track their development and based on the results, we can analyze if the player’s progression is going in the right direction”.

## More than just data

After a long and successful tenure in the coaching sector, Filippo continued his professional journey as a pundit before becoming an ambassador for [Kama.Sport](https://blog.kama.sport/the-kama-platform-the-power-of-performance-intelligence). When asked about why he chose Kama, he shares that it was about choosing a partner that understands and supports his football philosophy. “I quickly realized that the world of comparing and connecting data is evolving really quickly. From technical data to physical data there is a lot of information out there but at the end of the day, data without context is just numbers. Kama understands how to process data in a way that coaches can use it. Kama allows you to simplify the complexity of the game”.

![Blending sport and data has been a major factor in Filippo’s football journey.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Galli3_d93e25acf9.JPG)

When further elaborating on his partnership with Kama, he shares what he thinks is one of the most powerful tools that Kama’s platform possesses. “What I like about Kama is that they do not only provide you with simple statistics. Their software can chain together different [game scenarios](https://blog.kama.sport/reimagine-the-game-kama-game-sense) to show you the true impact a player has on a game. This can really help you analyze complex in-game situations such as building up from the back and other performance indicators.”

>“It’s about helping you stay into the complexity; we cannot escape the complex, but we can be better equipped to experiment and simplify it. This is what data is all about” – Filippo Galli, Former Professional Footballer and Ambassador at Kama.Sport

As we approach the end of the interview, I ask Filippo how he manages to keep up with all the changes around him and stay on top of the newest trends. He looks at me wholeheartedly and shares that competence is dynamic and that one should always look to improve themselves and develop their skills.

large_galli 4.JPG

medium_galli 4.JPG

small_galli 4.JPG

thumbnail_galli 4.JPG

galli 4.JPG

Adapting to changes is one of the most important aspects in ensuring sustainable professional development. Learn how football legend, Filippo Galli, leveraged his innovative thinking and growth mindset to fuel his exciting football journey.

How Filippo Galli Embraced Innovation to Advance His Football Journey 

Football is often referred to as the beautiful game, and rightfully so. Its intricate strategies, lightning-fast plays, and moments of sheer brilliance can captivate fans worldwide. But beyond the surface spectacle lies a world of data, statistics, and insights that add a new layer of depth to the sport. This is where match analysis comes into play. 

Match analysis is the art and science of breaking down every aspect of a match to uncover patterns, trends, and insights that might not be immediately apparent to the naked eye. Using a combination of data and video analysis, match analysts are capable of extracting valuable information that can then be transformed into insights and contribute to the overall performance and success of a team. 

At Kama, we understand the importance of data and video analysis in modern day football, which is why we are constantly striving to find innovative ways to support sport professionals to extract the absolute maximum value from their resources. Our strive to revolutionize the way match analysts observe has culminated in the creation of the world's fastest, most comprehensive match analysis tool, Kama Game Sense. 

![Kama Game Sense is part of Kama’s Video module.](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Video_Module_visual_a12ef2dd7e.png)

## What is Kama Game Sense?

Kama Game Sense is a proprietary feature which is an instrumental part of the [Kama Platform](https://blog.kama.sport/the-kama-platform-the-power-of-performance-intelligence). It is specifically designed to enhance the video analysis experience by automating the video generation process, providing more extensive parameter options and visualizing intricate game scenarios based on specific inputs. In essence, Kama Game Sense excels at identifying and classifying concatenated successions of events during a football match. It  breaks down complex game situations, making them more digestible, actionable and overall easier to extrapolate value from.

Kama Game Sense main contributions come in terms of elevated video analysis and match analysis performance. 

Whereas you would need to watch an entire match and manually segment parts based on the actions in the video, our technology allows users to access segmented video clips of matches showcasing intricate game scenarios based on customizable inputs; these scenarios are automatically grouped based on similar features. For example, let's say that you would like to see all instances over the last 10 games where your team regains possession in their own three-quarters of the field and subsequently attempts a shot on goal. WIth Kama Game Sense, you simply need to choose what game scenario you would like to see and designate a time frame. The result is an instantaneous, automated visualization of all situations that match the search criteria. 

![Kama Game Sense automatically segments videos based on your inputs ](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Screenshot_2023_09_15_105607_9ffea709e0.png)

Furthermore, Kama Game Sense’s capabilities go even further.  Instead of focusing solely on single events, it delves into successions of events or complete ball possessions. For instance, you can compare how many times a team successfully took a shot on goal following a long throw from the goalkeeper or a defensive build-up. Consequently, it allows you to magnify complex game situations to discover patterns, trends or simply evaluate the effectiveness of your strategic decisions.

## How does it work?

So, how does Kama Game Sense actually work? For end users, finding your desired game events is as easy as selecting a team you want to analyze, inputting the specific scenario you are looking for and choosing a time span, the software does the rest. To truly understand its functionality however, this is a short overview of the methodology used when creating a game scenario. 

- Kama Game Sense starts with basic event data from a football match.
- From the succession of events, it identifies actions that signify the beginning and end of a ball possession.
- Rigorous checks are performed on the events within a ball possession to ensure that possession can be accurately attributed to a specific team.
- Each possession is meticulously evaluated on various parameters. Amongst others, these include the position of individual events, total possession duration, types of actions occurring before, during, and after possession, player roles, and the pitch macro-areas covered during actions.
- Lastly, a set of attributes and qualifiers are associated with individual ball possessions. This classification allows us to extract precise moments in the game to create video clips, focusing on the most intriguing events.

## A quick tutorial

1. Select the team you would like to analyze or, alternatively, you can also select to examine the opponents of a given team. 

![Game Scenario Real 1.png](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Game_Scenario_Real_1_eed42436cd.png)

2. Choose the game scenarios that you would like to observe by selecting from the extensive list of options. 

![Game Scenario 2.png](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Game_Scenario_2_6ea054566c.png)

3. After your input, Kama Game Sense will automatically generate all the games in which the specific game scenario has occured. Select which games you would like to analyze.

![Game Scenarios 3.png](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Game_Scenarios_3_9d9050df45.png)

4. Depending on how many different game scenarios you want to observe, the system will segment it based on relevancy. You can also see the different camera angles, number of events, and number of players involved in the scenarios. 

![Gae Scenarios 4.png](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Gae_Scenarios_4_05abe983dd.png)

5. You can dynamically customize your selection to ensure that it caters to your exact search criteria.  

![Game Scenarios 5.png](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Game_Scenarios_5_52e60b65f6.png)

6. Following the customization stage, you can analyze the video segments and build your project.

![Game Scenarios 6.png](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Game_Scenarios_6_3a76f5fed9.png)

7. Each project can then easily be shared among members of staff, players, and other collaborators.

![Game Scenario 7.png](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Game_Scenario_7_d89dc90bd0.png)

Kama Game Sense is not just a tool; it's a game-changer for football analysis. It empowers coaches, analysts, and enthusiasts to dissect the beautiful game in unprecedented detail. Whether you're seeking to improve your team's performance or simply want to enjoy a deeper understanding of football, Kama Game Sense is your key to unlocking the game's secrets.


## About Kama.Sport

Kama.Sport is a cutting-edge software and data science company specializing in sports data, digital transformation, web services, and the 4.0 industry. Kama provides high-tech solutions that enhance the outcomes of both tactical and strategic decisions, support a team’s competitive development, and aid in their digital transition.

Kama’s all-in-one platform integrates the world’s most advanced sports data and technology to help coaches, teams, leagues and federations structure their work and operate more efficiently. Kama’s tailored solutions allow teams to simultaneously analyze both proprietary and third-party inputs, streamlining operations and providing football teams with an edge in a highly competitive industry. 

Learn more about Kama [here](https://kama.sport/en/home/).



large_Kama Game Sense Cover.png

medium_Kama Game Sense Cover.png

small_Kama Game Sense Cover.png

thumbnail_Kama Game Sense Cover.png

Kama Game Sense Cover.png

Introducing Kama Game Sense, Kama's revolutionary video analysis tool that completely reshapes the way you approach the game of football.

Reimagine the Game: Kama Game Sense

Welcome to the world of Kama.Sport, where innovation meets performance. We are on a quest to reimagine the frontier of performance and society’s integration in sports through the use of innovative technologies and powerful insights. Our cutting-edge, all-in-one platform is more than just a tool; it's a game-changer, a digital companion that empowers coaches, teams, and analysts to unlock the full potential of performance intelligence. In this blog, we will take you through the five essential modules that make up the Kama platform, each designed to revolutionize how you manage and analyze your team's performance.

![Kama's all-in-one platform.](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Our_P_Latform_a8bc85ae3c.png)

## 1. Manager Module

![Kama's Manager module.](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Manager_Module_visual_790bd38f64.png)

Kama's “Manager” section is an elaborate, integrated module, designed to streamline the efficiency of the workflowsworking processes of teams, coaching staffs, leagues, and federations. At its core, the module digitalizes and consolidates all training methodologies and processes into a single working space, allowing users to easily manage their day-to-day activities. Moreover, the module allows for the seamless integration and correlation of any data parameters associated with a team’s training processes and match performance, providing a holistic overview for decision-makers.

Kama's Manager module seamlessly integrates the functions of various departments, including medical, physical, and video analysis, into a single, cohesive platform. This integration not only promotes efficient collaboration among staff but also ensures that everyone is working on the same page, using the same software for a unified approach to player development.

Users can also benefit from the module's unparalleled customization options that provide flexibility for the modifications and adjustments of individual work flows. The intuitive interface makes it easy for users to create tailored training sessions and exercises that adhere to their individual training philosophy. In addition, users can also generate extensive reports related to player and team performance; this feature facilitates the instant visualization of selected performance metrics in various formats, making it easier to assess and compare outputs.

Kama's Manager module also enables the storage of vital medical records and the tracking of the rehabilitation progress of athletes. This feature includes rehabilitation footage and facilitates seamless interaction between players and medical staff, ensuring that athletes receive the best possible care and support throughout their recovery journey. The innovative solution allows teams to monitor the status and progress of their assets in a single working space, reducing operative and communication inefficiencies while promoting transperency and cohesiveness. 

## 2. Analysis

![Kama's Analysis module.](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Analysis_Module_visual_f0c5c6791c.png)

The “Analysis” module is a staple in Kama’s service portfolio. Leveraging over 2000 individual parameters from over 120 competitions, the analysis section allows users to evaluate and compare the performance of teams and players from around the world, while following the natural progression of designated targets, creating reports promptly, and drawing conclusions based on objective data parameters. 

Kama’s analysis section provides users with the most advanced statistical analysis to compare teams, players, and leagues against custom statistical benchmarks and parameters, including Kama’s custom indexes; clients have the opportunity to modify indexes and data outputs to evaluate specific performance indicators and get an in-depth view of given assets. Thanks to the data aggregation capabilities of Kama, teams, and coaches can easily follow the time evolution of their assets, access the geographical positions of recorded statistics, transparency, and visualize them through our advanced video-linked heatmap. In a recent update, we also introduced statistical correlation graphs as a new feature in the module; the innovative enhancement depicts the relationship between two distinct parameters on a single graph, seamlessly identifying patterns, trends, and tendencies.

Overall, the advanced functionalities of the “Analysis” section unlock unparalleled insights and performance intelligence that redefines the predictive power of your game scenarios and supports you in making informed data-driven decisions.

## 3. Video

![Kama's Video module.](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Video_Module_visual_2e689893d8.png)

Kama's Video Module offers a game-changing solution that addresses the shortcomings of traditional video analysis methods. Gone are the days of sifting through hours of footage to find key moments. With Kama’s AI-powered video tools, you can effortlessly create highlights of every single game event, providing an in-depth perspective on team performance in an efficient and timely manner. This not only saves valuable time but also reduces the likelihood of human errors in identifying critical moments, trends, and patterns.

Our seamless integration into your pre- and post-match analysis workflow ensures that you have access to the most relevant video content at your fingertips. Kama's Video Module goes beyond just compiling footage; it automatically generates tailored match and player highlights by integrating footage from tactical, training, and media broadcast feeds, giving you the ability to pinpoint and analyze specific match events instantly.

Kama's unique video analysis feature takes your understanding of the game to a whole new level. With Kama Game Sense, you can select specific game scenarios (ex. if you want to see all instances in the last 10 games of your goalkeeper passing the ball to the wing, resulting in a shot on goal) and the software will automatically generate an instant visualization of the exact moments when the selected scenario occurred. This level of precision and efficiency is a game-changer for football professionals looking to gain a competitive edge and gain a deeper understanding of their team’s capabilities. With Kama's Video Module, you can analyze, strategize, and elevate your team's performance like never before.

## 4. Scouting

![Kama's Scouting module.](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Scouting_module_visual_043bab0bf0.png)

In the ever-evolving world of football, finding and recruiting the best talents has become essential for a team’s growth and is a mission every club takes seriously. Kama's groundbreaking “Scouting” module is designed to serve a dual purpose: enhancing the quality of your team and ensuring the sustainable development of your club.

Kama’s Scouting module empowers you to identify and bring in the brightest prospects in world football. Identify your target requirements, evaluate players based on hundreds of characteristics, and receive tailored recommendations that align with your specific needs. In addition, Kama’s fully integrated feeds from data providers such as Stats Perform, StatsBomb, and Wyscout, provide you with a comprehensive, quantitative assessment of prospects to give you a complete picture of their abilities and potential. 

The second part of our scouting solution, known as Skout, offers clubs an all-encompassing platform designed for clubs to oversee and manage their entire scouting network from a single place. Our technology seamlessly integrates inputs from both internal and external contributors, augmenting your scouting operation with a global reach. Scouting professionals can utilize Kama’s "Shadow Team" feature to efficiently manage, grade, and segment prospective targets based on custom characteristics and requirements, ensuring you don't miss out on the next football sensation. Skout allows you to centralize all scouting outputs into a single digital space, effortlessly integrating all insights and data collected from your scouting network. Consolidating information ensures that your club remains at the forefront of talent discovery and recruitment.

Incorporating Kama's Scouting Module into your club's strategy will allow you to discover, recruit, and develop top talents, giving your team the competitive edge it deserves. 

## 5. Tagging

![Kama's Tagging module.](https://blog-staging.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Tagging_Module_visual_f267cb5e56.png)

Kama's Tagging Module is an indispensable tool for coaches, teams, and analysts to gain a better understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. With the ability to manually tag game events in both training sessions and matches, you can unlock a treasure trove of insights to elevate your performance; it is the go-to solution for match analysts, coaches, and performance specialists looking to craft winning strategies and formulas. Its intuitive and powerful tagging capabilities provide the precision needed to dissect and improve every aspect of your team's performance. With Kama, you're not just analyzing the game; you're shaping its outcome and pushing the frontier of performance excellence.

Our tagging solution allows you to manually assess and segment training sessions and game situations, providing a deep dive into player performance and team strategy. By isolating and magnifying key moments in the game, you can evaluate tactical scenarios and outcomes with absolute precision. This immersive approach doesn't just benefit coaches; it also engages athletes in the performance-enhancement process, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Kama's Tagging Module goes beyond simple data entry as it empowers you to tolerate intuitive and rich visualizations for post-game assessment. Users can customize their inputs on the screen, improving your analysis with dynamic, interactive graphics that make complex strategies and tactics easy to understand.

## About Kama.Sport

Kama.Sport is a cutting-edge software and data science company specializing in sports data, digital transformation, web services, and the 4.0 industry. Kama provides high-tech solutions that enhance the outcomes of both tactical and strategic decisions, support a team’s competitive development, and aid in their digital transition.

Kama’s all-in-one platform integrates the world’s most advanced sports data and technology to help coaches, teams, leagues and federations structure their work and operate more efficiently. Kama’s tailored solutions allow teams to simultaneously analyze both proprietary and third-party inputs, streamlining operations and providing football teams with an edge in a highly competitive industry. 


Learn more about Kama [here.](https://kama.sport/en/home/)


large_COVER Kama.png

medium_COVER Kama.png

small_COVER Kama.png

thumbnail_COVER Kama.png

COVER Kama.png

Discover Kama's revolutionary solution - the Kama Platform. More than just a tool, the Kama Platform is the future of performance intelligence.

Kama Platform: The Power of Performance Intelligence

Football has come a long way from the days when dusty chalkboards and gut instincts were the main drivers of strategic brilliance. In the modern era of football, data has completely reshaped the competitive landscape and has become the reliable sidekick of most coaches across the highest levels of competitive play.

Not too long ago, you had to purchase a newspaper or a sports magazine just to see how your favorite team was performing during the season. Nowadays, we can extrapolate thousands of unique data parameters that can give light to even the smallest of details connected to player and team performance. 

With football becoming more dynamic and competitive by the year, the usage of [data analysis](https://kama.sport/en/home/) has become integral to every aspect of the game, from scouting and player recruitment to tactics and strategic approach. 

## Why is Data in Football Important?

In the current state of football, where strategic prowess and structured team play are the foundations of nurturing a winning culture, understanding the capabilities of your assets and the best ways to utilize them is critical to performing at the highest level of play. And similarly to other new technologies, it might be difficult for some to grasp the value of big data technologies in football and even harder to appreciate its impact.

In the most basic of terms, however, data provides teams, coaches, and technical staff with much-needed answers to their utmost burning questions. “Which formation would be most effective against this team?”, “Who should I start at midfield today?”, “Could this player become the next Messi?”. And although we do not have a magic ball that predicts the future (yet), the conclusions we can derive from data explore a much deeper level of football, one which is imperceptible to the human eye.

## The Power of Data

Nowadays, cutting-edge AI technologies and custom indexes allow for the instantaneous generation of game scenarios and events that provide custom insights and metrics that go far beyond the common offensive and defensive parameters we often see in the media. Although one might view data as just a bunch of random numbers, it is those details that separate the good teams from the great ones.

A critical area where data has helped clubs improve their performance is in tracking high-ball recoveries. The highball recoveries index refers to the number of times a team can regain possession of the ball in the opponent's first third of the pitch. 

This is a crucial metric for teams to measure, as it allows teams to regain possession in areas where they can quickly transition into the attack and create scoring opportunities. Kama.Sports data science team has developed an algorithm that automatically calculates the number of high recoveries for each team, providing valuable insights into each team's tactics and strategies. We applied the highball philosophy to the 2022/2023 TIM Serie A season and the results are quite interesting. 

## High Ball Recoveries per 90 Minutes

ACF Fiorentina is currently the leader in highball recoveries, maintaining a season-high average of 3.8 high recoveries per 90 minutes. The Florence-based team is followed by SSC Napoli and Atalanta B.C. who average 3.6 and 3.5 respectively. However, the data goes even more in-depth to provide us insights into the effectiveness of teams at converting high recovery situations into scoring opportunities.

![High Ball Recoveries per 90 Minutes in the Serie A.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Screenshot_2023_05_12_164009_c5134a84d5.png)

## High Ball Recoveries Resulting in a Shot on Goal

AC Milan is the most effective team in this regard, with 35.4% of high recovery situations resulting in a shot on goal (HR > 70m + fin), five of which directly resulted in a goal. These statistics highlight AC Milan's ability to quickly and effectively transition from defense to offense and take advantage of their opponents’ turnovers to create scoring opportunities.

![High Ball Recovery Situations Resulting in a Shot on Goal.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/HR_recoveries_shot_on_goal_2f162c06ad.png)

## High Ball Recoveries From Goal Kicks

On the other hand, Lecce records the highest number of high ball recoveries from opponents' goal kicks, followed by SSC Napoli and FC Internazionale Milano. This indicates that Lecce has a tendency to press high up the pitch and force opponents into attempting long balls or clearances, which allows them to win the ball back and use their number’s advantage to quickly transition into the offensive zone.

![High Ball Recoveries from Goal Kicks.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/HR_from_Goal_kick_201eb411b3.png)

The above-described parameters are just the tip of the iceberg and provide a mere glimpse into the impact and vitality of data in modern football. For a team to achieve its goals, avoid failure, and establish itself as industry leader in performance and technical capacity, it needs to stay in touch with the newest technologies and take full advantage of their capabilities. This is where Kama.Sports come into play. 

![High Balls total.jpg](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/High_Balls_total_2cf32834cb.jpg)

## About Kama.Sport

Kama.Sport is a cutting-edge software and data science company specializing in sports data, digital transformation, web services, and the 4.0 industry. Kama provides high-tech solutions that enhance the outcomes of both tactical and strategic decisions, support a team’s competitive development, and aid in their digital transition.

Kama’s all-in-one platform integrates the world’s most advanced sports data and technology to help coaches, teams, leagues, and federations structure their work and operate more efficiently. Kama’s tailored solutions allow teams to simultaneously analyze both proprietary and third-party inputs, streamlining operations and providing football teams with an edge in a highly competitive industry. 

Learn more about Kama [here](https://kama.sport/en/home/).

High Ball Recovery statistic writen on a football pitch

large_Banner 360x175 (1).png

medium_Banner 360x175 (1).png

small_Banner 360x175 (1).png

thumbnail_Banner 360x175 (1).png

Banner 360x175 (1).png

Data is absolutely crucial in football nowadays and the "High ball recovery" statistic can help a team improve its performance and realize its full potential. 

How the “High Ball Recovery” Statistic is Helping Football Teams Win

Over the last couple of decades, "the beautiful game" has undergone a transformative journey that has elevated both the competitive and entertainment value of the sport. The tempo of the game has increased significantly, with players performing almost impossible feats to secure the win for their team. Moreover, new technologies such as VAR (Video Assistant Referee) and Goal-line technology have been introduced to further bolster fairness and engagement in the sport. But beyond the high-level athleticism and new technologies on (and off) the field, football has embraced a new unlikely companion - data.

Data analysis has become a fundamental aspect of football, completely reshaping the way teams, coaches, and players approach the preparation, execution, and strategic planning for a match. In this blog, we delve into how data is transforming football, shedding light on how this evolution has and continues to shape the game we love.

## The Rise of Data in Football

Until recent years, coaches relied heavily on their experience, intuition, and observation to choose their squad, strategize, and make dynamic adjustments during matches. There were still people who relied on some form of statistical argumentation for the selection of talent, but decisions were mostly subjective. The advent of technology and the rise of data analytics completely reshaped this approach, with statistical information becoming one of the prime factors in team selection, scouting, and training.

Thanks to advanced data collection solutions,  teams now have access to an abundance of data, including player performance statistics, match data, and even real-time tracking of player movements on the field. So how has data transformed the way we approach football? Here are five ways in which data has transformed the beautiful game. 

## 1. Player Performance Analysis

Besides the common “eye test”, coaches and analysts can now delve deep into a player's performance breakdown thanks to data analytics. Metrics such as pass completion rates, shots on target, distance covered and positional data provide valuable insights into a player's capabilities, as well as his potential improvement points. This data-driven approach enables coaches to tailor training regimens, and strategies to optimize player performance and make informed decisions on the fly - all backed by objective parameters and performance metrics.

## 2. Team Strategy and Game Approach

The inclusion of data analysis into the daily workflow of teams could also have a positive impact on preparation and strategy. Teams can evaluate and compare the performance of teams and players from around the world,  determining the most effective formations and strategies based on historical performance data. From optimal line-ups to formation and tactical approaches, analytics help coaches enhance their chances of success on the field while optimizing the output of the assets at their disposal. 

## 3. Injury Prevention and Recovery Management

With player schedules becoming increasingly busier, it has become more important than ever for teams to ensure that their athletes maintain a peak physical condition. This is where medical data comes into play. Data analysis can help predict and prevent injuries through the identification of patterns in player workload and fatigue levels. Each player’s body composition and physical capabilities are different, often making it difficult for trainers to find the right work/rest balance for each individual without the proper information. Through data utilization, however, teams can now optimize training schedules and rest periods to reduce the risk of injuries, ensuring their key players are fit and ready to perform at the highest level when it matters most.

## 4. Scouting and Recruitment

WIth football being the most popular sport in the world, there is no shortage of talented players looking to make a name for themselves in the industry. The plethora of exciting talent has nurtured a very competitive landscape, making player scouting and recruitment an essential part of a team’s growth and development. Through data, scouts can now evaluate players based on specific requirements and compare them to identify the most suitable candidates to bring to the team. Advanced metrics allow teams to optimize their talent search based on the specific needs of the team, ensuring that each new acquisition is a strategic fit for the team.

## 5. Fan Engagement

Data and technology are also transforming the way sports brands engage with their audience, and adapt to the ever-evolving fans and consumers' behaviors. The involvement of data in [fan engagement ](https://kama.sport/en/media/)has become crucial since developing a deep understanding of each consumer provides a solid foundation for effectively engaging with and marketing to them. Clubs and leagues utilize data to engage fans in various ways, from personalized communications to interactive apps that provide real-time statistics during matches. All of these initiatives contribute to the overall fan experience and foster a deeper connection between fans and the sport they love.

## Unlock the Power of Sports Data

At [Kama.Sport](http://kama.sport/), we fully understand the difference data can make in terms of performance, productivity, and fan engagement for football organizations. This is why we created the [Kama platform](https://kama.sport/en/tools/), an innovative solution designed to support football players, coaches, teams, leagues, and federations in unlocking their true potential. The Kama Platform is an innovative product that integrates the world’s most advanced data and technology in one place, making it easy for football professionals and organizations to structure their workflows and enhance the outcomes of both on and off-the-pitch decision-making. 

Through the integration of the world’s most advanced sports data and technology Kama enables clubs to build, maintain and evolve their winning strategies and competitive edges. Our customizable dashboards and widgets, combined with powerful cutting-edge functionalities allow for the instant creation of automated match highlights, post-match reports and, performance insights, delivered to the decision-makers when it matters most.

![Kama's all-in-one platform.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Our_P_Latform_7f7c33394e.png)

## About Kama.Sport

Kama. Sport is a cutting-edge software and data science company specializing in sports data, digital transformation, web services, and the 4.0 industry. Kama provides high-tech solutions that enhance the outcomes of both tactical and strategic decisions, support a team’s competitive development, and aid in their digital transition.

Kama’s all-in-one platform integrates the world’s most advanced sports data and technology to help coaches, teams, leagues, and federations structure their work and operate more efficiently. Kama’s tailored solutions allow teams to simultaneously analyze both proprietary and third-party inputs, streamlining operations and providing football teams with an edge in a highly competitive industry. 


Learn more about Kama [here](https://kama.sport/en/home/).

Football pitch with players and a text about data transformation in football.

large_Banner 600x400 (2).png

medium_Banner 600x400 (2).png

small_Banner 600x400 (2).png

thumbnail_Banner 600x400 (2).png

Banner 600x400 (2).png

From new innovations such as VAR to advanced data-based strategy models, football has dramatically evolved over the last couple of decades. Discover how data and technology are transforming the world of football right before our eyes.

How Data is Transforming Football

In the heartland of Naples, where passion runs deeper than the Tyrrhenian Sea and the spirit of football reverberates through the ancient streets, a glorious feeling of resurgence was brewing among the local people. Fueled by the passion of their supporters and the burning desire to return the Scudetto to Naples, the 2022/2023 Napoli team produced one of the most legendary football seasons in modern Italian history.

## The Thrill of Victory

To truly appreciate Napoli's remarkable season, one must delve into the annals of the club's storied past. Prior to their ascend to cultural notoriety, Napoli was a mid-table team that could not break the performance barrier and compete with the “giants” of Italian football at the time. This all changed in 1984 with the arrival of what would become Napoli’s most prominent historical figure - Diego Armando Maradona. The Argentinian was the spark of creativity that the Neapolitans needed to ignite the Serie A and win the club's first ever Scudetto during the 1987 campaign. Having tasted the feeling of glorious success, the city of Naples was anxious to replicate their triumph. And so they did. In 1990, lightning struck twice and Napoli was once again crowned champions of Italy. 

For the last 33 years, the city of Naples has been patiently waiting to return the scudetto back to the “Città del Sole” and experience the thrill of carrying the Scudetto across its historic streets. For the city of Naples, Società Sportiva Calcio Napoli is so much more than just a football team. It is a modern-day legend whose significance transcends the physical realm of rationality and meshes with the primal passion and dedication of its supporters. 

The echoes of Diego Maradona's magic still resound within the walls of the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, as his unforgettable reign as a Neapolitan deity left an indelible mark on the club's identity. The current generation of players donned the azure blue jersey with reverence, driven by a burning desire to restore Napoli to its former glory.

During the 2022/2023 season, under the leadership of coach Luciano Spalletti, Napoli finally managed to put the pieces of the puzzle together and embark on a remarkable journey that would culminate in their triumphant return to the pinnacle of the Serie A.  Reminiscent of their legendary team of yesteryears, Giovanni Di Lorenzo and company managed to rekindle the flames of greatness and dominate the league with their mesmerizing play.

## A Season for the Ages

The 2022/2023 season proved to be the canvas on which Napoli painted their masterpiece. As if touched by the spirit of Maradona himself, they dazzled both fans and pundits alike with their impressive play and mental resilience. In a league brimming with talent, Napoli stood head and shoulders above the rest and finished the season 16 points above the second team in the standings. 

![Napoli’s historic Serie A 2022/2023 season by the numbers.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Napoli_s_historic_season_95991b03d1.png)

Napoli’s ascend to the top of Italian football can be accredited to two main factors: Spalletti’s attacking coaching philosophy and come outstanding individual performances.

Since taking over the team in 2021, Luciano Spalletti has used a brilliant transfer strategy that favors the acquisition of young, up-and-coming players, which resulted in the assembling of one of Europe’s most dynamic and versatile squads. What makes this Napoli team so special is their versatility. More specifically, aside from a well-constructed defensive line, the team also possesses an agile arsenal of offensive “weapons”. 

From Victor Osimhen to Stanislav Lobotka, every player is adept at dismantling stubborn defenses, utilizing precision passion to get in between defensive lines, suffocating their opponents through pressing intensity and torching opponents on lightning-quick counterattacks. Napoli’s versatility often left their opponents in awe and allowed the Naples-based team to exploit even the slightest of missteps from the opposition. Their multifaceted approach made them a force to be reckoned with, leaving the rest of the Serie A teams in a constant state of unease.

## A Game of Possession

>"If you play on possession, you don’t have to defend, because there’s only one ball" - Johan Cruijff, Football Legend

Despite the many standout qualities of the squad, one of the main contributors to their success was Napoli’s exceptional possession game. Spalletti's coaching philosophy relies heavily on keeping the ball for the majority of the game and “hypnotizing” opponents with their own, refurbished “tiki-taka'' interpretation. When looking into their season averages, Napoli averages an impressive 61,8% possession per game. They also lead the league in total passes with 22,804 (just over 600 per game), successful forward passes with 76.90% per game, successful horizontal passes with a total of 8405 and passes in the final third with a staggering number of 4776 (almost a thousand more than the second in that metric, Inter). 

![Napoli’s passing excellence during the 2022/2023 Serie A season.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Napoli_Passing_cafd1e5389.png)

However, it is important to note that Napoli relies heavily on short passes to methodically construct their attack rather than utilizing long balls to stretch out the play; the Neapolitans rank dead last in Total Long Passes made with only 1757 completed throughout the 38 games played. These statistics showcase just how much Spalletti-ball has influenced the team’s football methodology as just a few years prior, during the 2018/2019 season, Napoli ranked in the top 6 in Long Passes made. 

## Clinical Finishing

One of the beautiful things about football is how complex, yet simple the game is. From data analysis to medical treatments and strict diets, there are hundreds of steps that football clubs take to ensure the success of the club and achieve the highest level of perceived performance. Despite all of these processes, however, at the end of the day everything can be boiled down to a single, timeless principle “The team that scores more goals, wins the game”. Regardless of how much possession a team has had over the duration of a game or how many times they have managed to test the keeper, these [statistics](https://kama.sport/en/tools/) would all be in vain if the team does not manage to convert their chances.

![Napoli’s offensive performance during the 2022/2023 Serie A season.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Napoli_Offensive_4061e8946b.png)

To the delight of Napoli’s supporters, their favorite team was among the top 10 highest-scoring squads in Europe, amassing a total of 77 goals (in the Serie A) during their triumphant campaign. The sky-blues managed to create a total of 674 goal-scoring opportunities (2nd most in Lega Serie A), converting 11.13% of their opportunities into goals.

>"Systems no longer exist in football, it’s all about the spaces left by the opposition" - Luciano Spalletti, Football Coach

A heatmap of their goals shows us that Neapolitans did the majority of their damage from up-close with 72 out their 77 goals coming from inside the box. This is a direct result of their free-flowing style of play, allowing players to roam freely, find open spaces, and attack the box aggressively rather than sticking to a pre-assigned system that restricts their in-game movement. Moreover, when analyzing their shot selection, it is evident that Spelletti’s men do not like to settle as nearly 70% of their total shots have come from within the 18-yard box (423 out of 615). 

![Heatmap Goals Napoli.png](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Heatmap_Goals_Napoli_d3cfd8f6ba.png)

## Discipline and Defense

Napoli are undoubtedly one of the most talented and attacking-minded teams not only in the Serie A but in the entirety of Europe. In many cases what separates teams at the top are not only their physical capabilities, but also their mental fortitude and discipline on the field. When further analyzing Napoli’s Serie A season, we can see that they have received the least amount of yellow cards (47), collected a singular red card (rank 2nd in the league) and have committed the least amount of fouls (389) throughout the course of the campaign. 

Instead of utilizing tactical fouls, Neapolitans continuously increase the ball-sided overload with ball-far players dynamically occupying near spaces and forcing opposing players into making mistakes. This principle becomes increasingly significant when Napoli is forced to defend deep in their own end as they have conceded only 2038 passes in their defensive final third throughout the season, which ranks second best in the league behind only Fiorentina, who have conceded as little as 1660.

Thanks to their off-the-ball rotations, in combination with their high playing intensity, Napoli are able to put a stop to most offensive threats in their early stages of development. This has resulted in Napoli conceding a season-low 28 goals, which amounts to just 0,74 per game - an impressive stat showcasing their dominance during the title-winning run.

![Napoli’s defensive statistics compared to Serie A 2022/2023.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Napoli_Defensive_a28ab56802.png)

## The Stars of Napoli

It is undeniable that Spalletti’s tactical genius is the fuel that powered Napoli’s historic ascend to notoriety. However, it was the consistent performances and brilliant ottings by a few key players that served as the spark that ignited Napoli’s resurgence and fired them to the top of the Italian football hierarchy. These athletes didn’t just exceed expectations - they set a new golden standard for what peak performance should look like. 

### The Rise of Kvaratskhelia

One of these outstanding players is none other than the Georgian superstar, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.The talented winger arrived at the club in the summer of 2022 and quickly became the symbol of Napoli’s Scudetto-winning journey. Kvaratskhelia's scintillating performances quickly earned him recognition beyond his club's borders. Football aficionados from around the world witnessed the emergence of a true superstar in the making. Scouts, analysts, pundits and fans alike lauded his abilities, hailing him as one of the most promising talents on the global stage. 

During his extraordinary first season donning the sky-blue jersey, the 22-year-old phenomenon had a total of 25 goal contributions and was the only player in the Serie A to reach double digits in both goals and assists (12 goals, 13 assists). As impressive as his statistics are, they are only the tip of the iceberg. The true value that the Georgian international brings to the table comes from his ability to create space, get past his defender and attack the space behind the opposition’s defensive line.

The young talent does not shy away from a challenge and anxiously takes on his defender whenever he is given the opportunity. He averages a monster 7.39 attempted dribbles per game, and although his conversion rate is quite low in comparison to his overall attempts, he still managed to accumulate 2.53 successful dribbles per game (SDPG), a number that comes second only to Rafael Leao’s league-leading 2.57 SDPG. 

![Kvaratskhelia’s “1v1” statistics compared to the Serie A 2022/2023.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Kvara_1v1_8fd444fe34.png)

Once he gets in behind the defense, Kvicha’s creativity becomes too much to handle for any opposition. Aside from his physical and technical abilities, Kvicha’s ability to control, pass, and shoot equally with both feet keeps defenders on their toes and unlock a plethunlocksora of diverse, chance-creating possibilities for the Georgian. A further examinatiofon into his offensive impact shows us just how efficient and persistent the attacker is once he has the ball at his feet. He averages 16.54 Successful Passes in the Final Third of play per game, which is almost double the league’s average (8.43). Kvicha also manages just under 1.5 key passes per game, showcasing just how relevant his chance-creating skills are to the success of Napoli. 

![Kvaratskhelia’s offensive parameters compared to the Serie A 2022/2023.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Kvicha_Offensive_a7f892b2f2.png)

### The Excellence of Osimhen

And although every team is capable of producing goal-scoring opportunities, they wouldn’t account for much if there wasn’t someone to capitalize on these chances. During the 2022/2023 season, this someone for Napoli was no other than the 100 million dollar man, Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian-born player has been with the team since the 2020/2021 season, and although his performances leading to this season were solid, nobody expected the output that he produced during Napoli’s title-winning run. The 24-year-old demonstrated his unparalleled potential remarkably and has emerged as one of the brightest number 9s in world football. 

Similarly to superstars such as Erling Haaland and Dusan Vlahovic, Osimhen’s play style resembles that of a classic number 9; he isn’t necessarily the most skilled or technically gifted player, but his superior offensive positioning and elite finishing make him one of the most dangerous strikers on the planet. His 26 goals this season (including 5 assists) earned him Serie A’s Paulo Rossi award and helped Napoli secure the Scudetto a full 5 game weeks before the end of the season. From tap-ins to headed goals and absolute screamers, Osimhen is a ruthless finisher who can score from any position on the field. Aside from his goal-scoring prowess, the striker is also capable of creating chances for his teammates and served as a main pillar in developing Napoli’s attacks through the center field. Furthermore, his ability to win aerial duels (54,55% aerial duels won) and offensive duels (4.98 per game) positions him as the ideal recipient of goal kicks and high crosses. 

Osimhen’s value as a target man, finisher and provider for his team is undeniable. His exceptional positional awareness, attacking vision and ability to finish chances provided Napoli’s attack with an extra layer of versatility and helped propel them to their 3rd Scudetto title. 

![Victor Osimhen’s offensive stats compared to the Serie A 2022/2023.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Osimhen_Offensive_64991b67ab.png)

### The Stability of Kim Min-Jae

After the departure of Kalidou Koulibaly in the summer of 2022, Napoli was in desperate need of finding a replacement. The Senegalese international was, arguably, Serie A’s best defender, making the search for his successor even more crucial. Out of all the players in the market, Napoli decided to place their trust in the hands of Kim Min-Jae. And despite all the pressure - Kim took little to no time to prove that he is the man for the job. The South Korean international made an immediate impact on the team and gave his team the confidence to play the aggressive football that won them the title. Strong, agile and witty on the pitch, Kim’s ability to read the play translated into the South Korean recovering an average of 5.76 possessions per game for his team. The defender also managed 1.11 interceptions per game, further amplifying the effectiveness of his movement and ability to, almost, predict the actions of his opponents. 

![Kim Min-Jae’s defensive statistics compared to Serie A 2022/2023.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Kim_defensive_stats_4e27924896.png)

Throughout the duration of the season, Kim also solidified himself as one of the best 1-on-1 defenders in the Serie A; relying on his aggressive tackling approach, Kim’s colossal presence echoed stability across the whole defensive half and beyond. Kim conceded just 0.11 dribbles per game, had a total of 36 blocked shots and won 2.88 defensive duels per game. This kind of defensive dominance provides his teammates with a sense of stability and allows them to play a more free, attacking football, knowing that they can always rely on their superstar defender to bail them out of any difficult situations. 

What separates Kim from other defenders in the league is his remarkable ability to dictate the tempo of the game and play with the ball at his feet. He averages 34.60 successful forward passes and 33.17 successful horizontal passes per game, both stats leading the league in the two respective categories. Kim has an excellent vision of the game and can provide pinpoint passes to his teammates, regardless of their positioning on the field. Moreover, Kim is also able to push the pace of play from the back by carrying the ball from his end, all the way to the opponent’s defensive box in a matter of seconds. When asked about his adventurous runs, Spalletti said that Kim is simply “The best center-back in the world”. 

![Kim Min-Jae’s passing statistics compared to Serie A 2022/2023.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Kim_Passing_3b334d15a0.png)

And although this statement might be controversial, there is no denying that the South Korean prodigy has surpassed all expectations and is without a doubt one of the brightest defensive talents in Europe. 

## A Bright Future

Napoli’s 2022/2023 campaign was nothing short of spectacular. Led by Spalletti’s free-flow coaching style, the team dominated the Lega Serie A from start to finish and brought the Scudetto back to the city of Naples. Their squad’s success is one of unity, consistency and flair, a combination of attributes that transformed Napoli into one of Europe’s most dangerous teams on the planet. From the brilliant wing-play of Kvicha Kvaratskhelia to the goalscoring prowess of Victor Osimhen, every player on Napoli’s team contributed to their incredible triumph and their dominance is clearly reflected in their sensational statistical superiority. Following their historic season, we are already looking forward to the next campaign and are excited to see the new champions of Italy in action once again.

## About Kama.Sport

Kama.Sport is a cutting-edge software and data science company specializing in sports data, digital transformation, web services, and the 4.0 industry. Kama provides high-tech solutions that enhance the outcomes of both tactical and strategic decisions, support a team’s competitive development, and aid in their digital transition.

Kama’s all-in-one platform integrates the world’s most advanced sports data and technology to help coaches, teams, leagues and federations structure their work and operate more efficiently. Kama’s tailored solutions allow teams to simultaneously analyze both proprietary and third-party inputs, streamlining operations and providing football teams with an edge in a highly competitive industry. 

Learn more about Kama [here.](https://kama.sport/en/home/)

large_Divisor - Demo.png

medium_Divisor - Demo.png

small_Divisor - Demo.png

thumbnail_Divisor - Demo.png

Divisor - Demo.png

Learn more about the rise of Napoli and explore their title winning season by the numbers.

The Rise of Napoli: The Champions’ Season by the Numbers