2024 European Football Championship: An Analysis of Goal-Scoring Patterns

The aim of this study is to analyze the goal-scoring patterns observed in the UEFA 2024 European Football Championship held in Germany. In this study, 117 goals scored across 51 matches played during the tournament were analyzed. Of the goals scored, 56.4% occurred in the second half, while 43,6% were scored in the first half. The highest number of goals was scored between the 16th and 30th minutes (19,7%), while the fewest goals were recorded between the 90th-105th and 106th-120th minutes. When examining the number of touches before the goal, the majority of goals were scored through direct shots (59%). The analysis also revealed that most assists were made from Zone 4 inside the penalty area (22%) and through short ground passes (34%). Additionally, the study found that the most frequent shot type was with the inside of the right foot (29%) and that midfielders were the players who scored the most goals (35%). VAR decisions were used 25 times, with offside and penalty situations being the most frequently reviewed. This study emphasizes the need for reconsideration of offensive and defensive strategies, suggesting that coaches should develop their game plans based on these findings.