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FIFA Data Scientists Explain Match Momentum (EP 49)
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In this special interview episode, Lester Nare speaks with Juan Busso, Senior Football Data Scientist at FIFA, and Arron Ackerman, FIFA’s Team Lead for Football Performance Analysis, about the data science behind the Match Momentum visualization featured throughout the 2026 World Cup. What does “momentum” actually mean in football—and how can it be measured without reducing the game to possession or shots? Juan and Arron explain how FIFA translates football principles into mathematical models, validates those models with coaches and technical experts, and turns complex tracking data into a graphic that fans can understand at a glance. We break down the underlying “threat” model, including…