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

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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.

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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/)

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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

A story like no other. An achievement  too improbable even for the world of fairytales and fables. This is the enchanting of a team that rose from the cindered ashes of relegation  to reclaim their spot among Italy’s elite. This is the extraordinary journey of Cagliari Calcio's triumphant return to the Serie A.

## 1. A Glimpse of Despair

To understand the significance of Cagliari’s accomplishment, we must first go back in time to the 2021/2022 season. Coming into the season, the Sardinia based team was realistically targeting to a mid-to-high table finish in the Scudetto. But what started off as an ambitious target, quickly faded into a fierce fight for survival as Cagliari quickly found themselves struggling to keep up with the competitiveness of the league. 

As the curtains fell on the 2021/2022 season, Cagliari found themselves relegated to the Serie B, leaving the team and fans left to lick their wounds and face a new reality of Serie B. The feeling of failure continued to linger, but instead of putting the players down, it fueled a burning desire to reclaim their rightful place among Italy's footballing elite and continue their hunt for the coveted second Scudetto title.

![Cagliari conceding a goal to Ascoli during the 2022/2023 campaign.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Cagliari_shot_on_goal_f30dde72f4.jpg)

## 2. A Rocky Start

Cagliari started the 2022/2023 season with a renewed sense of ambition. From their training facilities to the mentality of the staff and the quality of their players, the team was constructed with the singular purpose of competing against Italy’s very best.  So when the team only won 3 out of their first 10 games of the season, both the fans and the club's leadership could sense that the team’s competitive spirit was slowly evaporating. 

Cagliari was floundering. Struggling to find their rhythm and chemistry, it appeared their promotion aspirations were as short-lived as the 90 minutes they spent on the pitch each week. The team's performances were lackluster, and their position in the wrong part of the table was a far cry from where they planned to be. 

![The squad embracing their supporters after a loss.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Calgiari_Claping_at_fans_39ed541259.JPG)

As doubt started to take hold, the team had a choice - to either interpret their poor performances for what they were - a temporary lapse in form and a chance to improve or to accept their failures as the norm, write off their aspirations and settle into the second tier for the long haul. Thankfully, the resilience within the squad refused to waver and little did they know, the boost that they were waiting for was just around the corner. 

## 3. A Ray of Hope: The Arrival of Ranieri

At the midpoint of the 2022/2023 season, Cagliari had managed to accumulate a mere 12 points and was sitting in 14th position in the Serie B standings. And although they showed some glimpses of brilliance during the first 20 games, it was evident that something needed to change. And change it did. 

At the end of December 2022, Cagliari appointed Claudio Ranieri as the team’s new manager. Returning to the club after 31 years, the Italian specialist was tasked with turning the tide and rejuvenating Cagliar’s competitive spirit. Expectations were high as Ranieri had a reputation for nurturing a winning mentality at every club and notoriously managed to win the Premier League with Leicester City - the odds of which werewas over 5000/1 before the start of that historic 2015/2016 season. 

Ranieri’s first official game in charge of the Sardinia-based team came on January 14th and as the world celebrated the beginning of the new year, Cagliari’s renewed focus was aimed solely at achieving their prized goal - return to the Serie A. And within just a couple of games, it was evident that Casteddu’s mentality, as well as their performance on the field, had received the proverbial new coach ‘bounce’. The experienced manager instilled a renewed sense of belief and unity within the team, with the confidence of each player growing by the day.

![Lapadula and company celebrating after a goal.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Caglairi_celebrate_3_41707e746e.jpg)

Under Ranieri's guidance, Cagliari’s performance improved significantly and their exciting style of play started to catch the eye of football experts and fans alike. Their defense tightened and the team started playing more aggressively off the ball, resulting in less chances conceded and ultimately, and most importantly, fewer goals conceded. 

Moreover, Ranieri completely reshaped the structure of Cagliari’s offense, which translated to a higher volume of chances created, chances converted and ultimately - goals scored. Cagliari’s transformation was reflected not only in their on-field performances, but also in their statistical averages. 

### Offensive Output Before vs After Ranieri

During the first half of the season (13.08.2022 - 14.01.2023), the team was predominately playing in the 4-4-2 formation, relying on a large volume of crosses, long passes and horizontal passes to build up their offense. They averaged 26.7 crosses per game, just over 171 successful horizontal passes and attempted a bit over 67 long passes per game, only 40.45 of which managed to find their target. And although it might seem like the team was applying a lot of pressure on the attacking end, they managed to convert on a mere 7.62% of their chances, which resulted in just 1.15 goals per game, a statistic that summarizes their struggles in front of goal. 

In comparison, the first adjustment Ranieri made was to transition to the 3-5-2 formation, which provided more depth to their build-up play and positioned more players on the attacking end. Cagliari regained their hunger for goals and that was reflected in their increased goal conversion rate of 11.11%, translating to an average of 1.45 goals per game - a significant increase from the first half of the season. Moreover, it is notable to mention that the majority of their goals came from inside the box (1.32 per game), showcasing how the increased number of attacking players translated to Cagliari outmanning their opponents in the offensive box. 

Additionally, the team displayed a more direct style of football, focusing on moving the ball forward rather than stretching the play along the flanks; out of all their passes during a given game, 48.25% were forward passes, meaning that the team tried to make forward progress with approximately every second pass. Tactical changes made Cagliari a dangerous team to face. 

![Cagliari’s offensive statistical comparison. (Black=before Ranieri, Green=after Ranieri)](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Caglairi_offensive_460bc454c3.png)

### Defensive Output Before vs After Ranieri

Despite their solid defensive foundation, the team was also struggling with keeping their opponents away from the 18-yard box. Despite conceding only 209.25 passes in their defensive half per game, the players struggled to win their individual assignments, leading to the team winning only 25.4 defensive duels per game (SPAL leads the league with 31,7 defensive duels won per game).  Their inability to keep up with the opposing players and their struggle to retrieve possession of the ball in a timely manner (only 7.7 interceptions per game) led to the concession of a large number of changes and the team conceding an average of 1.15 goals per gamer, which was on par with their offensive output. 

Arguably Ranieri’s biggest contribution was his ability to solidify Cagliari’s defense and turn it into a brick wall that opponents could rarely (and barely) penetrate.t. By the second half of the season the team had conceded just 0.64 goals per game, which ranked in the top 5 of least goals conceded in the Serie B. Central to Cagliari’s improved defensive cohesiveness was and their ability to win a larger percentage of defensive duels; the Casteddu managed 10.05 interceptions during the second half of the season and won an impressive 51.41 duels per game (with 30.55 of which on the defensive end). They also recovered 57 possessions per game, leading to an upsurge of attacks per game, goals, and ultimately - wins. 

![Cagliari’s defensive statistical comparison. (Black=before Ranieri, Green=after Ranieri)](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Caglairi_defensive_3440197aa3.png)

## 4. Climbing the Ladder

With the progression of the season, Cagliari’s impressive form propelled them from 14th, to a coveted playoff spot. The tide was turning and both the team and their fans could feel that Ranieri was creating something truly special during his second spell in Sardinia. 

At the end of the regular season, Cagliari placed 5th in the rankings with a total of 60 points - a feat that seemed highly unlikely after the first half of the season. However, for anyone who watched the team’s ascend to the top of the Serie B rankings, it was easy to see the heightened collective determination of the players and the undeniable tactical brilliance of Ranieri. The team looked rejuvenated and their improved form didn’t seem like a fad but rather the new performance standard for the squad. And as Cagliari managed to clinch their spot in the playoffs, there was only one thing left to do - finish the job.  

![Cagliari returns to winning form after the signing of Claudio Ranieri.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Cagliari_celebrate_1_8fc2f5748f.jpg)

## 5. Playoff Heroics

Entering the playoffs in 5th position meant that Cagliari were at an immediate disadvantage to their future opponents. They had to win all of their games/series on aggregate to advance to the next round as even a draw would mean that the team that placed higher during the regular season would advance forward. They knew that returning to the top flight was preconditioned to being at their very best, for the full 90 mins of each game.  Prepared they needed to be and prepared they were. 

As the playoffs arrived, the stage was set for Serie B’s most important stretch of games. a crucible where dreams were either shattered or realized, the playoffs were the last obstacle in Cagliari’s way and their draw was by no means favorable. Cagliari's first foe was a hungry Parma team, which came out firing from the get-go, leading 0-2 after just 45 minutes of play during the teams’ first clash. However, Cagliari did not give up, and similarly to how they clawed their way back into playoff contention. Scoring a last-minute goal to win 3-2, courtesy of Zito Luvumbo’s ballet likeballet-like poise in the box and hammering right-footed finish.) t The team then went on to draw 0-0 in the second leg, ensuring their spot in the final. 

In the final series of the season, an inspired Cagliari had to jump over one final hurdle - Bari. A team known for their tenacity and intense pressing style of play. After a hard-fought draw during the first game, Cagliari needed a win in the second game to book their spot in the Serie A for the next campaign. After a hard-fought game, it seemed like Bari would be able to hold off Cagliari’s advances and hold them to a 0-0 draw…however, Leonardo Pavoletti had other ideas. One of the team’s most experienced players managed to score the club’s biggest goal of the season in the 94th minute of stoppage time, ensuring a deserved fairytale ending to Cagliari's incredible season. 

![The team never gave up on their goal and defeated both Parma and Bari in the playoffs.](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Caglairi_celebrate_2_c71962b10c.jpg)

## 6. A Return to the Elite

As the final whistle blew, Cagliari's journey from relegation to elevation was complete. Ranieri and his men secured one of the most dramatic turnarounds in Italian football history and gained the admiration of sports fans around the world. The triumph of the “underdog” became a symbol of hope and inspiration for supporters across Sardinia and beyond and demonstrated the power of grit, determination, and most importantly - belief in one’s own abilities. The team had rekindled the fire that once burned within them and had proven all the doubters wrong to reclaim their rightful place in the Serie A.

As Cagliari returns to the top flight of Italian football, they open a new chapter in their already rich history. From next season, they will once again be competing against the top teams in the county for the chance to secure their second Scudetto title. And although the challenges that lie ahead will be formidable, their indomitable spirit and newfound confidence will serve as their guiding light on their thrilling journey. Forza Casteddu! 

![Forza Casteddu!](https://blog-production.s3.eu-central-1.wasabisys.com/Cagliari_group_photo_ac3d2e666d.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/).


Cagliari football team celebrating their promotion. 

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Against all odds, Cagliari Calcio secured their promotion back to Lega Serie A.  From their difficult start of the season, to their playoff heroics, we delve into the team's 2022/2023 season and depict their journey from relegation to elevation.

From Relegation to Elevation: Cagliari’s Epic Journey Back to the Serie A

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From Relegation to Elevation: Cagliari’s Epic Journey Back to the Serie A