Why two football sites can show different statistics

Prem Football · AI-assisted editorial explainer · Published 18 October 2026

Two sites can agree on a final score yet disagree about a tackle, a chance or possession. A statistic is shaped by how the action is defined and collected.

FIFA has previously highlighted discrepancies between providers and urged caution when comparing datasets. That is a reason to read definitions, not a reason to abandon analysis. A consistent measure can still be useful when its limitations are understood.

Before comparing seasons or competitions, ask whether the source and definition changed. Keep the same unit, minimum minutes and competition context. If one page counts an action differently, placing both numbers in the same chart can imply a comparison the data does not support.

Our planned evidence cards will show the provider, timestamp and missing fields alongside a measure. Opinion should be recognisable as opinion. A good chart helps you ask a better question; it does not turn incomplete information into certainty.