Ballgewinne

Ballgewinne is a term used in German-language sport discourse to describe the act of a team or player gaining possession of the ball from an opponent. It refers to situations in which control of the ball transfers from the attacking side to the defending side, often interrupting an opponent's buildup or scoring attempt. While the concept applies to various ball sports, it is most commonly discussed in football (soccer) analytics and tactical analysis.

In football, ballgewinne arise through several mechanisms. Successful tackles and clean dispossessions are the most direct. Interceptions of passes, blockades that disrupt the opponent’s passing lanes, and winning second balls after contested duels also contribute. Pressing and counter-pressing strategies aim to force turnovers high up the pitch, increasing the frequency of ballgewinne and shortening the opponent’s time on the ball.

Tactically, teams seek to maximize ballgewinne by coordinating collective pressure, compact positioning, and rapid transition play. A high-pressing approach seeks to restore possession quickly after losing it, while more conservative defensive shapes may emphasize winning the ball further down the pitch through disciplined marking and anticipation. Ballgewinne are valued for shortening counterattacks, creating immediate scoring opportunities, and shaping the tempo of a match.

In performance analysis, ballgewinne are often measured as defensive recoveries or ball recoveries, sometimes normalized per 90 minutes. They are used to assess a team’s aggressiveness, pressing efficiency, and defensive effectiveness, as well as the contribution of players in roles such as defensive midfielders and center-backs. See also ball possession, turnovers, and interceptions.