Evolution of playing styles in UEFA European championships: trends from 2012 to 2024

Abstract

This study identifies playing styles of national teams in the UEFA Euro and their evolution across the 2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024 tournaments. The sample comprised 184 matches involving 33 national teams, with technical indicators recorded for both teams in each match, totalling 368 cases. Technical indicators were analysed using Principal Component Analysis to identify playing styles, and Mixed Linear Models were used to assess temporal effects, with opponent quality as a covariate. Five distinct playing styles emerged, namely Direct Attacking, Possession Play, Wide Play, Aggressive Defending, and Discipline Defending. Possession Play exhibited a significant increase after 2016 (p < 0.001, ES = 1.02–1.22), reflecting a shift towards more controlled, associative play. In contrast, Direct Attacking and Wide Play peaked between 2012 and 2016, declined significantly in 2020 (p < 0.05, ES = 0.67–0.68), and showed a slow recovery by 2024. Aggressive Defending decreased significantly in 2020 (p < 0.05, ES = 0.79), while Discipline Defending showed modest fluctuations over time. Opponent quality influenced most playing styles, with stronger teams favouring Possession Play and Direct Attacking when facing weaker opponents. These findings provide coaches and analysts with data-driven insights to optimise tactical strategies in elite international football.