Indirect free kicks in professional football. Identification of explanatory variables

Abstract

Indirect free kicks are situations that occur during football matches, with potentially transcendental actions in the final result. The objectives were to determine the effectiveness of these actions, identify variables associated with success, and propose a successful indirect free kick model. After registering 447 indirect free kicks during the 64 games of the World Cup in South Africa 2010, and performing statistical analysis, results indicate a low efficiency in the shot, shot between the three posts and goal. 64.3 % of goals that came from indirect free kick contributed to score points in the final result. The mode of sending, number of attackers involved and the offensive organization are variables that have been revealed as modulators of effectiveness. These statements could be a starting point to equip coaches with new tactical tools.