1.HNL 2020/21 – data analysis

1.HNL is getting better every year. Since the Croatian Football Federation decided to decrease the number of clubs in the 1st league from 12 to 10, the quality of football significantly increased over time. This year is no different, the table looks exciting and there are a few teams with just a few points difference between them, with some having fewer matches because their games were postponed. Croatia has two representatives in European competitions with Dinamo Zagreb and Rijeka playing in the Europa League. Dinamo Zagreb won their group and qualified for the knockout phase, while Rijeka ended last in a tough group playing against Serie A side Napoli and La Liga side Real Sociedad.  

This data analysis will point out certain statistics which indicate the performance of the teams so far this season. By looking at the data visualizations through this analysis, we will try to connect data to the situations on the pitch and explain why teams overperform or underperform in certain fields. 

Overview

[image: Sofascore]

Osijek sit at the top of the table, but they have played two matches more than Dinamo who is a point behind and four matches more than Rijeka who mathematically could be above them if they win all the postponed games. Gorica had a fantastic start to the season and it will be interesting to see if they will be able to keep their level of performances through the whole season.