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AI Transforms Women's Football: Player's Secret Weapon
26 Feb
Summary
- Player uses AI to analyze team performance and secure a contract.
- AI offers advanced analytics to women's clubs lacking resources.
- Technology aims to level the playing field in women's football.
Nicole Kozlova, a footballer and data analyst, leveraged artificial intelligence to evaluate Glasgow City before joining them in the summer of 2024. This allowed her to verify the team's playing style promises with data, even as the club faced a challenging previous season. Her proactive use of AI demonstrated a unique approach to player agency and self-empowerment.
AI is increasingly shaping professional football, with men's teams utilizing it for scouting, injury prediction, and performance analysis. While Chelsea has partnered with an AI company, women's football's adoption lags due to data access issues. However, companies like Twelve Football are bridging this gap, offering AI-powered analytics at accessible price points.
Twelve Football's tools, like Earpiece, simplify complex data into understandable messages, empowering smaller clubs and players. Despite some controversy regarding AI's role, as seen with Seattle Reign FC's coach using ChatGPT, the technology is viewed as a valuable supplement. It provides crucial insights for clubs without extensive scouting networks or in-house data analysts.
The potential of AI in women's football is significant, aiming to equalize opportunities by providing advanced analytical capabilities. This technology can help players and clubs, particularly those outside the elite, build stronger cases for investment and recognition, fostering a more competitive environment. Experts predict AI will become integral to football decision-making within five years, extending to academies and grassroots levels.
