34.7k views
1 vote
In the previous question, we assumed that points scored in a soccer match was a linear function: Points Scored = 0.18(Passing)+0.25(Shooting)+0.12(Compatibility), with each variable measured on a scale of 1 to 10. Imagine that all teams begin by using this equation. Suddenly "Team A" (passing=7; shooting=6; compatibility=6) BEATS "Team B" (passing=9; shooting=8; compatibility=7). How might this outcome be possible?

User SuperNano
by
8.2k points

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

The unexpected outcome of Team A beating Team B, despite lower attribute scores, can be explained by considering additional factors like team tactics, player psychology, and stochastic events which are not accounted for in the linear function equation used to predict points scored.

Step-by-step explanation:

The outcome where Team A beats Team B, despite having lower individual attribute scores in passing, shooting, and compatibility, may be explained through various factors not accounted for in the linear equation.

Since the linear function only accounts for certain attributes, it's essential to consider elements like team tactics, player psychology, physical condition, and external factors such as weather or referee decisions that could impact the game's outcome.

Additionally, soccer games consist of many complex dynamics and stochastic events, implying that a team with lower scores in the equation can outperform a statistically superior team through strategy, teamwork, or simply due to the probabilistic nature of sports.

Therefore, even if points scored are calculated based on specific attributes, the actual game outcome may vary significantly, demonstrating the limitations of relying solely on quantitative models to predict sports outcomes.This outcome might be possible if the coefficients for the variables in the linear function were adjusted or if the weights assigned to each variable were changed.

For example, if the coefficient for Passing was increased or the weight for Shooting was decreased, Team A could potentially score more points than Team B, despite having lower individual scores for Passing, Shooting, and Compatibility.

User Hudi
by
7.7k points