The Most Efficient Goal Kick in Football: What the Data Tells Us
In modern football, goal kicks are more than just restarts of play; they are strategic opportunities that can shape a team’s attacking sequences. Some teams prioritize short goal kicks to build from the back, while others rely on long, direct balls to gain territory. But which method is the most effective?
By analyzing data from top European leagues—including the Eredivisie, Premier League, LaLiga, Bundesliga, we examined the efficiency of short, mid-range, and long goal kicks.
1. Defining Efficiency
To determine the most effective goal kick strategy, we measured:
- Percentage of goal kicks leading to a shot (direct attacking impact)
- Percentage of goal kicks reaching the final third (territorial gain)
2. Short Goal Kicks: Best for Controlled Progression
Short goal kicks (those ending in the defensive third) are the most common, averaging 115 per league. Their main strength lies in controlled buildup play and maintaining possession.
Key Takeaways:
- On average, 24-32% of short goal kicks reach the final third.
- Short goal kicks are most effective for structured buildup play, especially for teams adept at playing out from the back.
3. Mid Goal Kicks: A Risky Middle Ground
Mid-range goal kicks (those ending in the middle third) are less frequent, averaging 45 per league. They often result in contested 50/50 duels, making possession retention more difficult.
Key Takeaways:
- Mid goal kicks result in very few shots (1-5% success rate).
- Eredivisie teams progress forward best with 28% of mid goal kicks reaching the final third.
- These kicks appear less effective than short kicks for structured buildup and less effective than long kicks for direct play.
4. Long Goal Kicks: The Direct Approach
Long goal kicks (those landing in the opponent's half) prioritize field advancement over possession control, averaging 50 per league.
Key Takeaways:
- Only 1-2% of long goal kicks result in a shot, meaning they are not ideal for direct attacking plays.
- However, 21-28% of long goal kicks reach the final third, making them valuable for bypassing midfield pressure.
- For teams struggling with high pressing, long goal kicks provide a safer, direct route forward.
5. What is the Most Efficient Goal Kick?
Best for Shot Creation: Short Goal Kicks
- Short goal kicks lead to the highest number of shots (5-8%), making them the best for initiating attacking sequences.
Best for Territory Gain: Mid/Long Goal Kicks
- Mid goal kicks offer the highest progression (28% in the Eredivisie).
- Long goal kicks are most effective for moving forward in the Bundesliga (27-28%).
6. What Can Teams Learn?
- For teams with strong ball-playing defenders: Short goal kicks are the most efficient for controlled buildup and shot creation.
- For teams under high pressing: Long goal kicks are safer for territory gain.
- Mid goal kicks seem the least efficient, as they neither generate more shots than long goal kicks nor provide significant territorial advantage which the long goalkick does provide.
7. Final Verdict
Short goal kicks are the most efficient when executed well, balancing controlled buildup with attacking potential. Long goal kicks offer a direct, safer alternative for teams under pressure. Mid goal kicks appear to be the least beneficial, as they fail to significantly improve either shot creation or field progression in comparison to the others.
With these insights, teams can tailor their goal kick strategies to maximize their attacking potential and adapt their approach based on tactical strengths and opponent weaknesses.
At MyGamePlan, we provide data-driven insights that help clubs optimize their tactical approaches. Want to dive deeper into your team’s goal kick efficiency? Contact us today!
