Notational analysis of the Croatian first football league: Technical, tactical and performance indicators during the 2025/2026 season

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse technical and tactical performance indicators in the Croatian First Football League (SuperSport HNL) during the 2025/2026 competitive season. Match analysis has become an essential tool in modern football, allowing coaches, analysts, and researchers to identify performance patterns associated with successful outcomes. This study evaluated offensive and defensive parameters, possession-based indicators, passing efficiency, shots on target, expected goals (xG), pressing intensity, and situational variables related to match outcome. Data were collected from official league statistics and video analysis platforms across all league matches during the observed season. Variables included total passes, successful passes, possession percentage, shots, shots on target, expected goals, duels won, high-intensity pressing actions, recoveries in the final third, and set-piece efficiency. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses were applied to determine differences between winning, drawing, and losing teams. The results demonstrated that winning teams achieved significantly greater passing accuracy, higher xG values, more successful high pressing sequences, and increased efficiency in transition phases. Teams positioned in the upper part of the league table also showed greater tactical compactness and offensive organization compared to lower-ranked teams. Furthermore, home teams demonstrated statistically significant advantages in ball possession and attacking efficiency. The findings contribute to the growing body of literature regarding notational analysis in elite football and provide practical implications for coaches, analysts, and performance specialists working within Croatian and European football environments.