Like the technology sector, the football industry is undergoing a significant revolution. Historically, player creativity was the key to breaking down defenses. Today, however, the extensive use of advanced metrics is reshaping the game, requiring new player profiles.

During this competition, many top coaches and players expressed frustration over the lack of space and flair on the field. In modern football, having more data analysts on any team has become essential.

Identifying patterns and areas to exploit is increasingly crucial, and it goes beyond just the system of play or player movements. The Copa America 2024 final showcased two different styles of play that reflect the evolution of modern football.

On the Colombian side, players like Ríos Montoya, Rodríguez, and Arias exhibited a high dribbling rate in the offensive half throughout the tournament. However, the effectiveness of their dribbles was diminished by frequent ball losses. Addressing this issue could significantly enhance Colombia’s threat in future tournaments.

Additionally, James Rodríguez excelled in providing passes into the box, while Montoya demonstrated an impressive shot quality, indicating a high scoring probability regardless of his position. If Colombia’s staff can fine-tune these aspects, the team could become a formidable contender in upcoming competitions.

Argentina efficiency in the box

Lautaro Martínez is Argentina’s most frequent shooter inside the box, with Lionel Messi closely following. However, Julián Álvarez truly stands out due to his exceptional shooting quality. Despite often being in less favorable positions, Álvarez’s shots maintain a high level of accuracy and effectiveness. This indicates not only his remarkable skill in taking advantage of challenging situations but also his ability to deliver precise and powerful shots, making him a critical asset in Argentina’s offensive strategy.

Lionel Messi is crucial for the team due to his ability to deliver the most successful passes into the box and the most decisive passes to his teammates. His impact is highlighted by leading the expected assists (xA) metrics, alongside Di Maria and Mac Allister. This trio excels at improving ball possession and converting passes into goal-scoring opportunities. Messi’s vision and precision in passing significantly enhance Argentina’s offensive play, making him indispensable to the team’s success.

Was high pressing a solution for beating Argentina?

In order to respond to that style of coaching we will analyze the PPDA (Passes Per Defensive Action) of both teams:

PPDA of Colombia: 5.46

PPDA of Argentina: 6.30

Colombia’s lower PPDA (Passes Per Defensive Action) reflects their higher pressing intensity, applying more defensive pressure compared to Argentina. This trend was consistent throughout the competition. Despite Colombia’s aggressive pressing, Argentina’s balanced approach, with moderate pressing intensity, proved effective in maintaining their defensive strategy.

Colombia maintained an intense high-press strategy throughout the competition, as evidenced by their PPDA (Passes Per Defensive Action) value of 5.46, compared to Argentina’s 6.30. This high pressing intensity enabled Colombia to recover the most balls in the tournament, totaling 131, with an impressive tackle success rate of over 68% and averaging 15.8 successful tackles per match.

Unfortunately, we all know that high pressure style could lead to a lot ball losses since it required a lot of effort from the team mate during the tournament

Argentina’s Tactical Mastery

Argentina showcased exceptional defensive strength throughout the tournament. Despite Colombia averaging an xG of 1,58 per match and adopting a proactive style, Argentina’s defense remained resolute. The final against the teammates of James Rodriguez, in particular,underscored this as Argentina secured a 1-0 victory thanks to Goalkeeper Martinez and a well-organized defensive setup.

Special mention to Scaloni who’s coaching changed the scenario in this chess match subbing in Lautaro Martinez, Paredes, and Lo Celso, all involved in the recovery and build up transition leading to the goal.

Argentina’s defensive solidity, combined with their creative and proactive approach upfront, set them apart. While Colombia had a slightly better xG (9.5) to goals

In conclusion, Argentina’s defensive prowess, coupled with their strategic attacking plays, proved decisive in their Copa America campaign. Their ability to neutralize opponents’ strengths, exemplified by their handling of Colombia and James Rodríguez, underscores their tactical mastery.

While Colombia’s high-pressing game was impressive, it fell short in the final match, highlighting the complexities of tournament football.

Emiliano Martínez’s standout performance, particularly his ability to outperform the xGOT metric, was pivotal to Argentina’s success.