Observational analysis of centre forwards' ball actions at UEFA euro 2020

Authors

DOI: https://doi.org/10.6018/cpd.684871
Keywords: performance analysis, tactical behaviour, decision-making, elite football

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to analyze the offensive ball actions performed by center forwards in UEFA EURO 2020, to understand the relationship among various analyzed technical–tactical criteria and categories -including spatial, interactional, and intentional criteria- and the result of the action, and to establish a predictive model of the action results. To do so, 599 UEFA EURO offensive forwards actions were analyzed using observational methodology by means of an ad hoc observation instrument composed of 4 dimensions, 14 criteria and 129 categories, with an inter-observer reliability of κ = 0.842. Three types of analysis were carried out: a descriptive analysis by counting absolute and relative frequencies, a bivariate analysis using contingency tables between the criteria included in the observation instrument and the action result, and finally a predictive model based on binary logistic regression. The results obtained showed that the criteria modifying the result of the forwards' actions were: Area where the ball comes from (χ² = 140.3; p < .001; ES=.342), Area where the action takes place (χ² = 148.7; p < .001; ES=.352), Initial interaction context (χ² = 57.7; p < .001; ES=.219), Previous action (χ² = 78.2; p < .001; ES=.256), First-contact surface (χ² = 20.5; p = .002; ES=.131), Field area where the ball goes (χ² = 498; p < .001; ES=.645), Tactical intention (χ² = 73.9; p < .001; ES=.351), Action performed (χ² = 557.9; p < .001; ES=.682), and Final interaction context (χ² = 348.2; p < .001; ES=.539). From the multivariate approach, the logistic regression model has shown a predictive capacity of 80% when it came to predicting the ability of center forwards to maintain ball possession. The significant predictor variables were the Initial interaction context, the Tactical intention and the Action performed. These results can be useful when preparing and training for the specific position of the center forward as well as increasing their performance.

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Published
27-02-2026
How to Cite
Fernández-Sante, D., Iván-Baragaño, I., Maneiro, R., & Ardá, A. (2026). Observational analysis of centre forwards’ ball actions at UEFA euro 2020. Sport Psychology Notebooks, 26(1), 114–131. https://doi.org/10.6018/cpd.684871
Issue
Vol. 26 No. 1 (2026): CPD1(2026)
Section
The Scientific Legacy of María Teresa Anguera Argilaga

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