M.S. Applied Data Science - Capstone Chronicles 2025

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demonstrated severe multicollinearity with VIF values of 10.49 and 11.08 respectively, accompanied by r = .913 ( p < .001). This correlation is theoretically expected, as npxG represents a subset of xG. Additionally, take-ons success and take-ons attempted showed moderate multicollinearity ( r = .851, VIF = 5.97 and 6.23), reflecting the inherent relationship between attempt frequency and success rate. Following established practice (Wooldridge, 2015), variables with VIF > 10 were systematically removed, retaining expected xG while removing npxG to ensure model stability. Table 5 Forward - VIF Analysis and Multicollinearity Assessment by Position

4.1.1.4 Position-Specific Performance Comparisons

Spider chart visualizations (see Figures 7-10) provide multidimensional performance comparisons between elite players within each tactical position, using the same metrics analyzed in the correlation matrices. Performance scores are normalized to a 0-100 scale for cross-metric comparability. Forward position analysis revealed Kylian Mbappé's dominance (Score: 21.5) over Vinícius Júnior across offensive metrics, particularly in goal-scoring efficiency and xG generation. The spider chart illustrates Mbappé's superior finishing capabilities while highlighting comparable dribbling statistics between both players. Figure 7 Forward Position Performance Comparison: Mbappé vs. Vinícius Júnior

Pearson r*

Variable

VIF

Status

Goals Assists Shots Shots on target Expected xG Expected npxG Expected xAG Take-ons success Take-ons

2.6

Acceptable Acceptable Moderate

1.65 6.01

4.81

Acceptable

10.49

.913

Severe

11.08

.913

Severe

2.04

Acceptable

5.97

.851

Moderate

attempted 6.23

.851

Moderate

Note. VIF > 10 indicates severe multicollinearity; 5 < VIF < 10 indicates moderate multicollinearity. Sample sizes: forwards ( n = 1,695), midfielders ( n = 2,029), defenders ( n = 1,900), goalkeepers ( n = 396).

Midfielder comparisons demonstrated marginal differences between Jude Bellingham (Score: 31.8) and Luka Modrić (Score: 30.7), with Bellingham exhibiting higher defensive contributions (Tkl: 18.2 vs. 9.6) while maintaining similar creative output. Both players show exceptional passing (P-Cmp%) accuracy

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