# 7. SkillCorner vs event data: what additional recruitment intelligence should we test?


**Test tracking-derived data when the unresolved question concerns movement, positioning or physical output that your existing evidence does not adequately explain.** SkillCorner describes automated player and ball tracking, including extrapolated off-camera positions, alongside physical and game-intelligence products. ([skillcorner.com](https://skillcorner.com/us/sports/soccer))

Keep these evidence types distinct:

| Evidence type | What the product description establishes | Trial implication |
|---|---|---|
| Event data | Recorded football actions | Test definitions, context and the actions relevant to the role |
| Event-linked spatial snapshots | Player positions around particular events | Test what is visible, identified and absent at those moments |
| Continuous tracking-derived data | Position sequences, with product-specific estimation methods | Test temporal coverage, identity continuity and quality flags |

Statsbomb’s 29 October 2026 announcement describes AI-supported player identification within 360 snapshots. That does not make the snapshots a continuous tracking feed. Hudl separately advertises tracking data, so do not assume tracking is available only from a specialist supplier. ([hudl.com](https://www.hudl.com/blog/statsbomb-360-upgrade-adds-ai-powered-player-id))

Suggested trial questions:

- Does the forward make useful runs that are not rewarded with a pass?
- What does the full-back do when the opposite flank attacks?
- Does the centre-back’s recovery activity reflect the required role or a different team structure?

Require the supplier to distinguish observed and estimated positions, explain unavailable periods and show how the relevant metrics were calculated. Evaluate the evidence with your analysts; do not buy solely because a new physical ranking looks persuasive.