Volta Redonda vs. Avaí: When Data Meets the Beautiful Game

Team Profiles: Steel City vs. The Lion

Volta Redonda FC (founded 1976) represents Brazil’s steel-producing heartland, while Avaí FC (1923) carries the coastal flair of Florianópolis. Interestingly, both clubs share nearly identical average possession stats this season (48.2% vs 48.7%), suggesting this was always destined to be a midfield battle.

The Numbers Behind the 1-1 Draw

The match produced:

• 22 total shots (9 on target)
• xG: 1.4 - 1.2 in Avaí’s favor
• 78% pass accuracy for both sides

Avaí’s left-back made 5 key interceptions (highest in match), while Volta’s #10 completed 83% of his dribbles. These micro-battles defined the stalemate.

Tactical Observations

Volta’s 4-2-3-1 created width problems for Avaí’s compact 4-4-2, but poor final-third decision making (only ³⁄₁₄ crosses connected) cost them dearly. Avaí’s set-piece dominance (6 corners to 2) translated into their equalizer - a textbook near-post flick-on in the 67th minute.

For full analysis including heatmaps and passing networks, visit [insert analytics platform link]. Next week I’ll be applying these same metrics to predict their upcoming fixtures.