A composite metric that assigns a value to every on-ball action — passes, carries, dribbles, shots — based on how much it increases or decreases the probability of scoring.
On-Ball Value (OBV), developed by StatsBomb, assigns every ball action a value in expected goals units based on how that action changes the probability of scoring. A progressive pass into the penalty area increases xG probability — that increase is the OBV of the pass. A miscontrol that gives the ball away in a dangerous area decreases xG probability — a negative OBV.
OBV is one of the most comprehensive single-number player evaluation metrics because it captures all on-ball contributions: passing, carrying, dribbling, pressing, and defending. A player with high total OBV is creating more scoring probability (or preventing more) than their basic stats suggest.
xG and xA capture the final output — shots and assists. OBV captures all intermediate actions that led to those shots and assists, including the progression through the phases of play. A midfielder who consistently advances the ball into dangerous areas but rarely takes the final shot or makes the assist may have high OBV but low xG/xA — making them undervalued by traditional stats.
OBV is most useful for evaluating midfielders and defenders whose contributions do not appear in xG or assist numbers. Applying OBV alongside xG gives a complete picture of a player's total contribution to their team's attack and defence.
xA (Expected Assists)
A metric that measures the probability that a pass or cross will result in a goal, weighting each assist opportunity by the xG of the resulting shot.
xG (Expected Goals)
A metric that scores every shot by its probability of resulting in a goal, based on factors like shot location, angle, and assist type.
Progressive Passes
Passes that move the ball significantly closer to the opponent's goal — a key indicator of a team's attacking play style.
Progressive Carries
Ball carries that advance the ball at least 10 yards toward the opponent's goal — measuring a player's ability to drive forward with the ball.
PPDA (Passes Per Defensive Action)
A measure of pressing intensity — how many opposition passes are allowed before a defensive action is made in the opponent's half.
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