scorelines

A scoreline is the numerical result of a sports match, typically expressed as two numbers separated by a dash, representing the goals or points scored by the competing teams. In football (soccer), the scoreline usually lists the home team first, followed by the away team, as in 2-1. Scorelines can also reflect the score at different times, such as at halftime, for example “2-1 at the break.”

Scorelines are used across many sports, including football, basketball, rugby, and hockey, though the meaning of the numbers adapts to the sport’s scoring system. They provide a concise summary of the game’s outcome and are commonly cited in match reports, standings, and records. In addition to final results, editors and commentators may reference current or evolving scorelines during live coverage to convey how a game is progressing.

In statistics and tournament formats, scorelines underpin more complex concepts. Aggregate scorelines combine the results of two-leg ties to determine a winner, as in a knockout round where the total over two matches decides advancement. Scorelines also influence goal difference calculations, rankings, and, in some leagues, tiebreaking procedures.

See also: score, final score, scoreboard, result, goal difference.