Analysis of throw-ins strategy on performance metrics in five men’s European football leagues

Joseph. A. Stone, Alliance Kubayi, Adam Smith and Jamie S. North

International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport, 2025, vol. 25, issue 5, 1013-1027

Abstract: Limited research has investigated the impact of throw-in strategy on match performance. Hence, this study examined throw-in strategy used by teams across five European competitions and how that strategy affected first contact success, possession retention, and attacking outcomes. Throw-ins from 1,826 matches across five European Leagues (Premier League; Bundesliga; Serie A; La Liga; Ligue) during the 2022/2023 season were analysed. StatsBomb data resulted in 71,220 phases of play originating from a throw-in. Variables such as competition, throw-in distance and direction were assessed on their impact on first contact success, possession metrics and shot creation. On average, 39 throw-ins were taken per match. 42287 throws originated from the middle zones of the pitch, with throwing the ball backwards (99.5%) or laterally (96.9%) increasing first contact success compared to throwing the ball forwards (71.3%) (p 15 seconds). Retaining possession from the throw-ins was highest when going backwards (92.13%) compared to laterally (71.20%) and forwards (49.75%). Results showed an increased chance of shot creation for throw-ins directed backwards or laterally compared to those directed forwards. Findings are discussed in relation to applied performance and coaching implications.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1080/24748668.2025.2481697

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