Heatmap
A touch-density plot showing where actions occurred on the pitch, not a measure of effort.
Definition
Heatmaps show where involvement clustered. In event data, they usually summarise touches or on-ball actions. They do not measure work-rate. Team heatmaps show collective action density. Player heatmaps isolate one participant.
They answer where activity clustered. They do not prove the tactical plan. They do not show who worked harder. Density can reflect dominance, chasing, or simply where the ball spent time. Match state and role changes affect the picture.
Caution
A hotspot is not proof of intent or effort. Use heatmaps to form hypotheses. Test them with video and complementary metrics.