When FIFA World Cup group play begins on Jun. 14, fans tuning into broadcasts around the world may be treated to data-heavy, in-depth coverage of their favorite national teams.
STATS will provide what it calls Insights to World Cup media providers, which could include FOX Sports in the United States and Sky Sports in Europe. Those data sets will leverage the company’s vast historical library to pull up numbers-based stories relevant to every matchup in the World Cup, according to STATS. If Germany faces off with Argentina—either in the semifinals or final—those watching can expect information especially related to that precise matchup. The last time the two played, Argentina won a meaningless friendly 4-2. The time before that, Germany won the 2014 World Cup final.
Information on matchups will be sent to media 24 hours prior to each match in the form of 15 to 25 pregame “Insights,” which will detail matchup histories, notable players, rankings, and other data. But the real fun will happen during the matches, when STATS will deliver real-time data based on the game itself, adding greater context to any goals by soccer’s top stars.
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SportTechie Takeaway
The information is not an innovation designed specifically for soccer’s biggest international event. It has already been used within the English Premier League and France’s Ligue 1, and a good number of players in those leagues will appear for their native countries throughout the tournament. But their World Cup performances can be given additional texture and meaning with statistics from their regular teams.
Millions of fans will find out in a week’s time how STATS’s Insights will play out during match broadcasts, as well as online and via social media. The smart bet is on this data significantly enhancing fans’ understanding and appreciation of the beautiful game’s international showcase.