Google's AI enters sports: Liverpool FC to get TacticAI's suggestions regarding corner kicks

Google’s AI lab, DeepMind, has partnered with Liverpool FC to explore the use of AI in optimizing football tactics. A research paper published in Nature Communications on Tuesday details a new system called TacticAI.

TacticAI analyzes data from past matches, focusing on set pieces like corner kicks. The system then suggests adjustments to player positioning and evaluates their potential effectiveness.

According to the study, a blind evaluation by Liverpool’s coaching staff found TacticAI’s suggestions useful and aligned with real-world scenarios in 90% of cases. They still couldn’t lead the team to win against Manchester United in the FA Cup.

While the current focus is on controlled situations like corner kicks, the long-term goal is to develop AI that can analyze the more dynamic and unpredictable nature of open play. Researchers at DeepMind acknowledge the complexities involved and view football as a challenging domain for AI development.

The use of AI in sports analysis is a growing trend. Other examples include the National Football League’s collaboration with Amazon Web Services on a project to predict and prevent player injuries. Experts suggest that AI can provide valuable tools for sports analysts by breaking down complex game situations into smaller, more manageable components, potentially leading to more informed decision-making.

This development follows the increasing adoption of data-driven approaches in sports, popularized by Michael Lewis’s book “Moneyball.” The movie stars Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, and Chris Pratt. One of my favorites.

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