Data set: Goal Patterns and Situational Dynamics in Professional Futsal

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify whether there is any type of goal that differentiates certain situational variables in futsal competition. To this end, 5,903 goals were observed in matches played in the Spanish Men’s National Futsal League. The situational variables analyzed were match outcome, partial match score, ranking of the team scoring the goal, and stage of the tournament. The independent variable “type of goal” included the categories: throw-in; corner kick; fouls; second play; double penalty; penalty; press break; positional attack; numerical superiority; numerical inferiority; transitions; and ball recoveries. To analyze differences between variables, a Chi-square test and Cramer’s V coefficient were performed. To establish associations, a correspondence analysis was conducted, and to determine relationships, a multinomial logistic regression analysis was carried out. The main results revealed significant differences between the variable type of goal scored and the variables match outcome (p < .001), score (p < .02), and ranking (p < .001). The Cramer’s V coefficient indicated a strong association between the variable type of goal scored and the variable match outcome, and moderate associations with the variables score and ranking. The correspondence analysis allowed graphical visualization of the relationships between categorical variables, showing a clear segregation between the categories of the dependent variable and some associations between dependent and independent categories. Finally, the multinomial logistic regression model showed that goals scored under numerical inferiority and superiority were the most robust predictors of the categories outcome, score, and ranking. These results can be used by coaches to design training sessions, strategies, and team tactics for futsal competition.