# Set-Piece Coaching (Data Level) · Football Level 8: Expert

Football · Level 8: Expert · Insporta Book (https://book.insporta.app/football/level-8/set-piece-coaching-data-level/)

Set-Piece Coaching (Data Level) in Football (Level 8: Expert) on Insporta: 100 sourced facts behind 10 tests. Covers: measuring corner outcomes; and more.

Set pieces through the data: corner outcomes, delivery zones, first contacts and second balls, set-piece xG, defending by the numbers, free kicks and throw-ins as data, restarts, scouting takers and reading a set-piece report.

## Test 1: Measuring corner outcomes

- A team may score from only a few corners a season, so the chances they create are a steadier measure. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- It shows whether deliveries reach attackers in positions to shoot, whatever the outcome of the shot. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Two corners that each end in a shot can differ hugely: a free header at six yards against a blocked shot from 20 metres. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A knock-down, a cleared ball recycled or a second cross can all create the shot that the corner set up. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Lots of long-range or blocked efforts after corners add up to shots without much danger. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A dominant side may win twice as many corners as a relegation side, which inflates any total. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A short corner can lead to a better-angled cross or simply keep possession, which is a choice, not a failure. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Defenders win most first contacts; only some corners produce a shot, and only a few of those go in. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- The per-corner comparison is what turns a list of corners into a judgement. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Out of 100 corners, 30 led to shots and 3 to goals, which is why analysts look at chances as well as goals. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))

## Test 2: Delivery zones in the data

- A near-post flick, a central header and a far-post knock-back are different chances, so they are measured apart. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Close range and a central angle make it the zone with the highest xG per header, if an attacker gets there first. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Far-post deliveries often look for a header back into the middle, where a second attacker arrives. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A routine designed for the near post is useless if half the deliveries drift to the goalkeeper. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A ball dropped onto a late runner lets him attack it at speed, though the distance lowers the chance. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A ball within the keeper's reach is often caught, ending the corner and starting the opponent's attack. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- If most deliveries go near post, the defending side can put its best header there. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Deliveries range from right on the line to the spot, 11 metres out. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Separating aim, landing and outcome shows whether the problem is the plan or the delivery. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A header won in the middle of the six-yard box is the closest and most central chance a corner can create. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))

## Test 3: First contact and second balls

- Whoever touches the ball first after the delivery, attacker or defender, is recorded as the first contact. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A team that never wins the first touch depends on scraps; winning it is the start of most set-piece chances. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- After a header or clearance the ball drops somewhere, and whoever wins it can keep the attack going or end it. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Many clearances only reach the edge of the area, where a waiting player can shoot or recycle the ball. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Second-phase play, where the ball comes back into the box, can produce chances even when the first header is lost. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A header that only reaches the edge of the box gives the attackers another chance straight away. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Recycled balls, second crosses and loose-ball shots all belong to the second phase of a set piece. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- The first contact is lost, but the second ball keeps the set piece alive. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Winning the first touch is best, recovering the loose ball is next, and a long clearance ends the threat. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Winning only 28% of first contacts means team B's corners depend on second balls and scraps. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))

## Test 4: Set-piece xG and the second phase

- The same header is contested by more bodies at a corner than in open play, so its value is set differently. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- It totals the quality of every attempt arising from corners, free kicks and throw-ins. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- First-phase chances come from routines and delivery; second-phase ones from reactions and recovering the ball. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- At around three-quarters of a goal each, a few penalties would hide what corners and free kicks produce. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- The chances were there; converting them is the gap, which often closes over time. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- After a first clearance, markers have left their men and the line is broken, so a quick second ball can find space. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Dividing by the number of set pieces shows how well a team uses each one, not just how many it gets. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Each step is a separate moment in the data, which is why analysts can split the xG between phases. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- The closer and more central the attempt, the higher its value. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Second-phase play brings 0.6 xG a match against 0.9 from first deliveries, a large share of the total. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))

## Test 5: Defending set pieces by the numbers

- The quality of the chances allowed from dead balls is the core measure, less noisy than goals conceded. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A defence that wins the first touch rarely concedes a clean chance from the delivery. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A clearance that only reaches the edge of the box hands the attackers another go. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- With only a handful of set-piece goals a season, luck plays a big part; xG against is steadier. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Comparing chances allowed under zonal, man or mixed marking gives evidence for the choice. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Every delivery caught is one that cannot become a shot, so a commanding keeper lowers xG against. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Concentration and legs fade, so some teams concede more from set pieces in the last minutes. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Contacts show where the problem starts; xG against measures its cost. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A catch ends the attack; a long clearance nearly does; a short one invites a second chance. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- 0.6 of its 1.5 xG conceded a match comes from set pieces, about 40%, far above what most defences allow. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))

## Test 6: Free kicks in the data

- A direct free kick from outside the box beats a wall and a set goalkeeper only rarely, so conversion is low. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- From a wide angle a direct shot has little xG, while a delivery into the box can find a free header. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A shot from 30 metres gives the goalkeeper far more time to reach it than one from just outside the box. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A player who is often fouled around the box keeps giving his team free kicks in dangerous areas. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A blocked shot or knocked-down cross can produce a better chance in the moments after the kick. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- If crosses from a zone produce more xG than shots, the team can change its default choice. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A wall that jumps or a keeper who cheats towards one side can be exploited once the pattern is known. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Closer and more central positions give the shooter a bigger target and the keeper less time. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Position first, then the value of each option, adjusted for what the opponent does. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- From a central spot the whole goal is available; from a wide angle a delivery usually makes more sense. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))

## Test 7: Throw-ins as possession

- With so many throw-ins a match, how often a team keeps the ball from them adds up to a lot of possession. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Keeping possession for several seconds after a throw shows whether the routine works. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Near the touchline the defending side can mark every nearby receiver and trap the ball against the line. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Taking a throw before markers are set lets a team keep the ball or even attack space. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Deep throws aim to keep the ball safely; throws near the box aim to create chances. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A throw that is kept for one pass and then lost is not really retained, so a time window is used. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Planned runs and decoys create space in a crowded area, so more throws find a team-mate who can keep the ball. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A chance is best, keeping the ball is fine, and losing it at once can start a counter. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- The decoy movement opens the space; the throw goes to the player who arrives in it. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Keeping only 48% of those throws means team B loses possession from about half of them. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))

## Test 8: Goal kicks and kick-offs

- A high share of short goal kicks marks a side that builds from the back; a low share, one that goes long. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Pressing the short options forces a long kick or a risky pass that can be won high up the pitch. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Winning the header is only the start; the team that collects the knock-down usually keeps the ball. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A long kick-off followed by a press can win the ball or a throw-in high up, instead of risking a turnover. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A clear preference, such as always to the left-back, gives the opponent a trap to prepare. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Restarts reflect the game model, so a change of coach often shows up in them first. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A planned first move after a goal or at the start can win territory or even a chance straight away. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Long kicks rarely lose the ball near goal; short passes under pressure do most often. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Territory is the aim: the routine trades the ball for field position and a restart near the opponent's box. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Going long with 70% and then only 25% of goal kicks is the mark of a switch to short build-up. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))

## Test 9: Scouting takers and targets

- Dividing the xG of the chances created by the number of corners shows whose deliveries lead to better chances. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Deliveries into the box are mostly contested in the air, so players who win those duels create the chances. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Winning headers in midfield helps possession; winning them in the box creates set-piece chances. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- One taker can then produce either type of delivery from each corner flag, which keeps defences guessing. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A perfect delivery that no one attacks creates no chance, so the taker's figures depend on who is in the box. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A player who reliably frees team-mates adds set-piece value that never shows up in his own goal tally. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A defender may score five headers one season and one the next; several seasons show his true level. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- The numbers rank the takers; context and video confirm what the numbers suggest. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- The blocker's work never becomes his goal, the taker gets assists, and the target gets the goals. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- C's corners lead to chances worth 0.11 xG each, well ahead of the other two. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))

## Test 10: Reading a set-piece report

- A team that creates 0.4 xG from set pieces but concedes 0.6 loses ground on dead balls overall. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Knowing that 0.35 xG a match is eighth-best tells a coach far more than the number alone. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A couple of headed goals can make a side look like set-piece specialists after only a few weeks. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Losing the first touch means attackers are getting to the ball first, so marking and heading are the focus. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Seeing the routines on video lets the team practise the answer during the week. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A cluster of goals conceded late suggests fatigue or changes of personnel, not just the marking scheme. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- The report points to where points are being lost, and the usual answer is time on the training ground. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- Measurement and comparison lead to the recommendation, which is the point of the report. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- A weak defence on set pieces costs goals directly, so the side ranked 19th for defending needs work first. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))
- The team is 18th for set-piece xG conceded and wins only 41% of defensive first contacts, a bigger problem than its attack. (Source: Set-piece analytics (Opta, StatsBomb definitions; club analysts' publications))

Sources: IFAB Laws of the Game / FIFA & UEFA technical reports / Opta, StatsBomb and FBref definitions / club and analyst publications / peer-reviewed research

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