Roger Hampel
Timo Gross (TSG Hoffenheim) presents the new cooperation between TSG x SAP x Apple | Photo Credit: Spobis
TSG Hoffenheim and SAP, in collaboration with AWS, have introduced a new AI-powered match analysis system that integrates Apple Vision Pro for 3D match visualization. The system, presented during SPOBIS 2025 in Hamburg, aims to assist coaches, analysts, and players in tactical analysis by combining AI automation and immersive technology.
AI-Driven Match Analysis TSG Hoffenheim SAP Apple
The new system, developed through SAP Sports One on AWS, enhances match analysis by automating key processes and improving accessibility to data-driven insights:
• Automated Video Retrieval: Analysts can use natural language queries such as “Show all pressing situations by Hoffenheim in the last three games”, and AI will instantly compile relevant video clips.
• Real-Time Tactical Comparisons: The tool enables side-by-side viewing of match footage and tactical diagrams, offering a clearer understanding of player positioning and movement patterns.
• Player Performance Tracking: The Player 360 dashboard aggregates match data, trends, and key moments, supporting coaching decisions with detailed performance insights.
Apple Vision Pro Brings 3D Match Visualization
A key feature of the system is its integration with Apple Vision Pro, bringing spatial computing to football analysis. The technology allows players and coaches to interact with 3D representations of match situations, offering a new level of tactical understanding beyond traditional 2D video analysis.
• Players can experience match situations from different viewpoints, improving decision-making and positioning.
• Coaches can assess formations and tactical setups in an interactive 3D space.
• Academy players and first-team squads benefit from advanced visualization tools, improving game understanding and transition between youth and senior levels.
The Role of a Hackathon in the Development
The foundation for this innovation was laid at a hackathon for SAP engineers, where the goal was to develop a prototype that combined immersive technology with SAP solutions. The team from SAP Sports One won the competition with a prototype that demonstrated the potential of spatial computing in football match preparation.
TSG Hoffenheim now utilizes SAP Sports One’s match analysis and performance optimization solutions, which are also used by the German Football Association (DFB) and FC Bayern Munich. The system supports football organizations in optimizing performance both on and off the pitch, providing data-driven insights and tactical tools for clubs and federations at the highest level.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
Fadi Naoum, Senior Vice President for Sports & Entertainment at SAP
"This prototype is the result of our ongoing collaboration with partners like TSG Hoffenheim, where we continuously test innovative technologies. For SAP, sports serve as a pioneer in demonstrating new technologies that may also be used in other industries."
Timo Gross, Head of Match Analysis at TSG Hoffenheim
"We are a club that stands for innovation and new approaches. The ability to experience match situations in such an immersive way can be a valuable addition to our training and match preparation."
Potential Impact on Football Analysis
The introduction of AI-driven analysis and 3D visualization could influence how football clubs approach tactical preparation, scouting, and training. As AI and spatial computing become more widely adopted, more teams may explore interactive data-driven tools to enhance performance and strategic planning.
For TSG Hoffenheim and SAP, this project reflects their commitment to modernizing match analysis, providing clubs with new ways to refine their tactical approach and improve decision-making processes.
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