ABSTRACT
Soccer has recently experienced substantial growth in innovative technologies leading to data being generated at record levels. Now more than ever organizations are adopting data-driven practices and allocating resources to more accurately inform decision-makers with data. Thus, the need for scientists and analysts skilled in data management, visualization, analysis, interpretation, and reporting is higher now more than ever. This chapter provides insights and recommendations into the application of data analytics to soccer. Decision support systems are characterized, along with a discussion surrounding the benefits and challenges of their integration. Guidance on how to evaluate the quality of the various data types that the sport scientist is exposed to in soccer and information relating to available analytical approaches are provided. Lastly, detailed advice relating to the visualization and communication of data is given.
