The aim of this study was to analyse open play crosses in the FIFA 2014 soccer World Cup. A total of 1332 open play crosses were observed from all 64 games of the FIFA 2014 soccer World Cup. The dominant themes of analysis included delivery side, delivery type, defensive pressure, time of cross and delivery outcome. Chi-squared tests of association were utilised to examine the association between each variable (e.g. delivery type) and each outcome category (e.g. goal-scoring attempts). A total of 42 goals (3.2%) were scored from the 1332 open play crosses analysed. The zone of the outcome of the cross was significantly associated (p < 0.05) with all outcome categories. Delivery type and zone of the crosser were significantly associated with defensive outcomes and attacking outcomes (p < 0.05). Defensive pressure was significantly associated with goal-scoring attempts and attacking outcomes (p < 0.05). Pitch side of the delivery and time of the cross were not significantly associated (p > 0.05) with any of the outcome categories. Coaches should reflect on the variables presented and the impact they have on crossing outcomes.
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