Passes Allowed Per Defensive Action
PPDA
A pressing-intensity proxy: opponent passes allowed before a defensive action in a defined zone.
Definition
A lower PPDA usually means a team engaged opponents sooner or higher. A higher PPDA usually points to a deeper or more passive block. Exact formulas and pitch zones vary by analyst.
PPDA is built from event data. It approximates intensity and engagement height. It does not measure pressing quality. It does not fully describe pressing triggers, cover shadows, or rest-defence.
Caution
Lower is not always better. Lower is not better quality by itself. Account for opponent style, game state, and sample size.