Using Math to Explain Messi’s Greatness

Leo Messi’s GOAT status is basically unassailable at this point, as evidenced by his recent World Cup hat trick (which also tied him with Miroslav Klose as the tournament’s leading scorer). This excerpt from the 2019 series This Is Football (via Kottke) attempts to explain that greatness.

Much of the video features Messi’s former coach Pep Guardiola commenting on his efficient and hyper-aware style of play. But mathematician David Sumpter also weighs in on how math explains Messi’s seemingly inhuman abilities, and specifically, his ability to use the space on the pitch to his advantage.

Of course, mathematical analysis is one thing, as Sumpter notes. Successfully applying that analysis to beat Messi is quite another thing. And as his World Cup performance proves, far more difficult to do.