The impact of team quality, match outcomes, and match location on pitch-passing networksItem

This study investigated the impact of situational factors (team quality, match outcomes, and location) on pitch-passing networks in the English Premier League, analyzing 295,901 possessions across 380 matches using a 7 x 7 grid system. Degree, closeness, and betweenness centrality were calculated for each zone, with non-parametric Mann-Whitney U tests conducted to analyze differences under varying situational factors. Results showed strong teams had higher degree and closeness centrality, especially in midfield/attack (e.g., 5-3 block, p<0.05, η²=0.311), while weak teams excelled in betweenness centrality on pitch sides (e.g., 5-1 block, p<0.05, η²=0.073). Winning teams' degree centrality concentrated in attack (e.g., 7-2 block, p<0.05, η²=0.060), with higher overall closeness centrality. Losing teams showed higher betweenness centrality in left attack (e.g., 5-1 block, p<0.05, η²=0.012). Away teams displayed higher centrality in left defences (e.g., 2-1 block, p<0.05, η²=0.012), and home teams in attack (e.g., 7-6 block, p<0.05, η²=0.033). These findings highlight the significant influence of situational factors on passing networks across different pitch areas, offering insights into team dynamics and tactical variations.