Use Shots to compare players within roles and remove bias from raw totals. Pair it with percentile views for quick context.
Shots helps analysts quantify total number of shots attempted on the opponent's goal, both on and off target. high shot volume can indicate an attacking threat, though shot quality is equally important.
Distribution snapshot
See how Shots is spread across players from the last 365 days of data.
Top performers (last 365 days)
Shots definition
Shots counts the number of attempts a player takes to score, typically including on-target, off-target, and blocked shots recorded in event data. It is a primary measure of attacking involvement and "goal hunger," reflecting how frequently a player gets into shooting positions or is used as a finishing outlet within team tactics. High shot volume often correlates with sustained threat, but it does not automatically imply efficiency or quality.
How analysts use Shots
To interpret shots effectively, analysts typically pair them with metrics that add quality and accuracy context. Shots on Target provides a partial view of placement and testing the goalkeeper, while expected goals (xG) estimates how good the chances are. A high-volume shooter with low xG per shot may rely on speculative attempts, whereas a lower-volume player with high xG per shot may be selecting higher-quality opportunities. For scouting, shots per 90 is a useful benchmark, but shot maps and phase-of-play splits (open play, set pieces, counterattacks) often provide the most actionable insight. Ultimately, shots is an essential building block metric--but one that becomes substantially more informative when combined with xG and shot location/shot type analysis.
How to interpret Shots
Use Shots alongside related metrics in the shooting category to understand role fit and tactical impact.
- Compare within the same competition or position group
- Use percentile ranks to normalize minutes played
- Combine with at least one supporting metric
Best charts for Shots
Radar charts surface it in context, while bar charts isolate the metric for direct comparisons.
- Radar chart for full profile context
- Bar chart for side-by-side comparisons
- Exported visuals for reports and social sharing
Sources and definitions
Start building charts
Turn Shots into shareable charts for reports and scouting decks.
Related metrics
Goals
Total number of goals scored by the player, including penalty kicks. This is the ultimate attacking output metric, measuring a player's ability to find the back of the net.
Goals + Assists
Combined total of goals scored and assists provided. This metric gives a complete picture of a player's direct contribution to their team's goal-scoring, showing both finishing and creative output.
Non-Penalty Goals
Goals scored from open play and set pieces, excluding penalty kicks. This metric is often considered a purer measure of attacking ability since it removes the guaranteed penalty opportunities.
Penalty Goals
Goals scored specifically from penalty kicks. This shows a player's composure and accuracy from the penalty spot in high-pressure situations.
Penalty Attempts
Total number of penalty kicks taken by the player. Compare with penalty goals to calculate conversion rate and assess penalty-taking reliability.
Shots on Target
Shots that were directed on goal and would have gone in if not saved by the goalkeeper. This metric indicates shot accuracy and the ability to test the opposition keeper.
Frequently asked questions
What does Shots measure?
Total number of shots attempted on the opponent's goal, both on and off target. High shot volume can indicate an attacking threat, though shot quality is equally important.
When should I use Shots?
Use Shots when you need to evaluate shooting contributions and compare players in similar roles.
Which charts highlight Shots?
Radar charts give context across metrics, while bar charts isolate the metric for direct comparisons.
Where can I learn related metrics?
Use the metrics glossary to explore complementary stats in the same category.