As many already know, player ratings are a go-to type of article for postgame coverage. However, here at PSG Talk, we want to give the readers something unique, and that’s where heatmaps come in.
Now, some are thinking about how heatmaps will go into our postgame coverage? Simple, using the football application SofaScore, which provides the graphic along with specific statistics, it can explain why a player was all over the pitch.
The Example
Let’s use the graphics from Paris Saint-Germain’s last UEFA Champions League match. When looking at all the heatmaps from those who participated in the game, it’s clear that two stand out, which are those from Thiago Silva and Presnel Kimpembe. One look at both heatmaps shows that both center-backs were very active in their part of the pitch.
For Thiago, one statistic that can help explain his high activity is the number of touches. In 90 minutes, Silva had 70 touches while clearing the ball six times from danger. Also, with 52 accurate passes, three completed long balls, and two key passes, the Brazilian wasn’t only around his zone as he moved up the field.
As for Kimpembe, his map shows that he was playing a slightly higher than his defensive partner. Nonetheless, the French international controlled his side of the pitch. Although he didn’t have six clearances, Kimpembe did clear the ball from danger twice and intercepted the ball three times. The 24-year-old was active in his way to compliment the veteran Silva, leading to a clean sheet for the defense against Club Brugge.
Going Forward
This type of content isn’t something that’s done by other outlets, and as mentioned, it’s about being different, but informative. The first installment of these heatmaps will come the day after Le Classique against Olympique de Marseille. Hopefully, it’s a weekly installment that everyone will enjoy this season.
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