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

This study investigated the impact of situational factors (team quality, match outcomes, and match location) on pitch-passing networks in the English Premier League. We analysed 295,901 possessions across 380 matches using a 7 × 7 grid system. For each pitch-passing network we calculated the degree centrality, the closeness centrality, and the betweenness centrality. A Mann-Whitney U test was employed to examine differences in these centrality measures across situational factors. Results indicated that strong teams demonstrated significantly higher degree centrality in midfield and centre-to-forward zones, and maintained superior closeness centrality across the pitch, particularly in central zones, while weak teams showed higher betweenness centrality on pitch flanks. Winning teams exhibited small differences in degree and closeness centrality across multiple zones, with notably medium differences in forward areas, and stronger closeness centrality throughout the pitch. At the same time, home teams demonstrated dominance in forward areas through degree centrality, while away teams showed higher activity in defensive baseline zones. Consequently, these findings demonstrate the systematic influences of situational factors on spatial passing patterns, providing empirical evidence for tactical adaptation. Coaches can leverage these insights to optimise passing strategies in critical areas such as midfield and forward zones to enhance offensive efficiency.