R code to replicate: https://github.com/ikashnitsky/tidy-tuesday/blob/master/2022-48-world-cups/world-cups.R

What was it that dropped it from 4 to 3 starting in the 1960s? A rule change or an innovation in defense strategy?

I like your y axis, why did you choose a grey background?

The early 60s was when the back 4 became prevalent as a tactic, rather than the wm or variations thereof, so my suspicion is that's driven the change, but I might be forgetting another factor

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Agreed, if you read the book “inverting the pyramid: history of soccer tactics” Brazil’s 4-2-4 in 58 WC inspired most to play 4 back, and Soviets started to play 4-4-2 as early as mid 60’s

2.5 goals/game to date for 2022

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1. Pack the box
2. Hope your striker can create something
3. ???????
4. Profit

It would have been very satisfying if the offside rule had been implemented at that time - would explain the graph. But no, that was already in place.

Obviously world cup goals per game and world fertility rates are closely related. Call the press

Is it good? I’ve been thinking about gifting it my dad for christmas, he’s very into tactics

The NBA could fix this real quick.

It’s good but it focuses more on pre 2000’s tactics. If you want to read more about modern tactics I recommend Zonal marking.

It's very good - I've only read the first edition that stops around 2008 with Spallettis striker less Roma side, so can't comment on the newer editions and how they handle the rise of tiki taka etc, but the historic stuff is excellent

Thank you very much!

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Thanks. I guess, you meant x axis? Grey background is just aesthetics, but it does help to read very light colors.