Speakers:‍

Liam Bailey (Data Analyst - SkillCorner) & Craig Inness (Regional Director - Northern Europe)

Session Summary:

Defensive performance is often judged by on-ball actions: tackles, interceptions, duels and recoveries. However, some of the most valuable defensive actions happen before the ball is won or without a player touching it at all.  

In this interactive insights session, SkillCorner will explore how the game is evolving out of possession and how off-ball movement, pressure and defensive positioning can provide a richer understanding of player impact. Using examples from SkillCorner’s tracking and Game Intelligence data, the session will highlight emerging trends in pressing, counter-pressing, defensive engagement and space control.  

The aim is to show how data can help clubs look beyond traditional defensive outputs and better identify players who fit their tactical model, squad needs and future playing style.