MSc DEGREE IN
SET PIECES IN FOOTBALL
COACHING, ANALYSIS & EXECUTION
Learn to design, train and execute attacking and defensive set pieces through set-piece coaching and analysis applied to professional football.
REQUEST INFORMATION
Next edition: 21/10/2026 · Last scholarships available · Secure your spot today
Exclusively focused on set pieces in football
In the Sports Data Campus ecosystem
Master's degrees certified by UCAM
With our certified diplomas
At Sports Data Campus, we sign the best instructors for you
TRAINING WITH ELITE SET-PIECE COACHES
Masterclasses and mentorship from leaders like Austin MacPhee (Chelsea FC) and José Rodríguez (Elche CF).
REAL MATCH PROJECTS & CLUB CONTEXT
End-to-end case studies using real game footage/data to design and optimise set-piece playbooks with measurable KPIs.
UNIVERSITY CERTIFICATION
With university certification from UCAM, the world’s most prestigious sports university.
COMPREHENSIVE APPLIED METHODOLOGY
Tactical, analytical, and tech-driven approach (video analysis, data tools, rehearsed routines) plus an Applied Final Project.
Backed by leading institutions and clubs in world football



















Want to work as a set-piece coach or analyst in professional football?
The MSc in Set Pieces in Football is a specialised academic programme focused entirely on set-piece coaching and analysis in professional football. Led by Austin MacPhee (Chelsea FC) and José Rodríguez (Elche CF), it combines professional practice with research-based study.
You will learn to design, implement and optimise set-piece strategies using tactical analysis, data, technology and professional software to improve the performance of attacking and defensive set pieces.
The programme includes:
- Specialised training in set-piece coaching and analysis
- Real models from professional clubs and national teams
- Tactical, analytical and technological methodology
- Practical work with professional football software
- Access to a global community of football professionals
- Master’s degree certified by UCAM
Is the MSc Degree in Set Pieces in Football right for you?
The MSc Degree in Set Pieces in Football is designed for coaches, analysts and performance staff who want to specialise in set-piece coaching, analysis and strategy in professional football.
This MSc is right for you if you:
- Work as a coach, analyst or member of a performance staff and want to specialise in attacking and defensive set pieces.
- Want to learn how to design, analyse, train and optimise set-piece strategies using tactical, analytical and technological methods.
- Work in a football club, academy, federation or private coaching environment and want to develop advanced expertise in set pieces.
- Are a former player or graduate in sports science or coaching and want to develop a career in set-piece coaching or analysis.
- Want to apply data, video analysis and evidence-based coaching to evaluate set-piece performance and support tactical decisions.
You do not need previous professional experience as a set-piece coach or analyst. However, you should have a strong foundation in football knowledge and an interest in coaching, analysis and set-piece performance.
UPON COMPLETING THE MASTER’S PROGRAM
OFFICIAL DUAL CERTIFICATION
Upon completing the master’s program, you will receive a dual certification awarded by UCAM and Sports Data Campus.
Official UCAM Certification
At UCAM, we have more than 20 years of experience in academic education. Our university has been recognised by prestigious international rankings, placing it among the top 10 universities in Europe for teaching quality, according to the Times Higher Education (THE) ranking. We are among the Spanish universities with the lowest dropout rates and the highest employability levels among students. At UCAM, we are constantly evolving and at the forefront of technology and tools to deliver a leading learning experience at both national and international level.
Official SDC Certification
Sports Data Campus is the leading school for specialised training in Big Data, advanced analytics and Artificial Intelligence applied to sport. We were created to respond to an increasingly clear reality: professional sport can no longer be understood without data. We train the professionals who lead change in clubs, federations, agencies and companies across the industry, combining strategic vision, practical application and a methodology aligned with the labour market. Our programs are designed to turn data into decisions, performance and competitive advantage. At Sports Data Campus, you do not just learn theory: you develop the skills that today’s sports industry demands to analyse, interpret and transform information into real impact. Because the future of sport is built with talent, technology and applied knowledge.
FROM ENROLMENT
CERTIFIED DIPLOMAS INCLUDED WITH YOUR ENROLMENT, VALUED AT OVER $5,000
You can obtain them from the moment you enrol until you complete the Master’s programme.
CERTIFIED DIPLOMA IN
Fundamentals of Football Analysis
CERTIFIED DIPLOMA IN
Sports Statistics with R
CERTIFIED DIPLOMA IN
Advanced Analytics with Python
CERTIFIED DIPLOMA IN
Fundamentals of Data Visualisation
CERTIFIED DIPLOMA IN
Generative AI Applied to Sport
CERTIFIED DIPLOMA IN
Soft Skills
DURING THE MASTER’S PROGRAM
COMPLEMENTARY TRAINING INCLUDED
We partner with leading companies in the sports industry to offer you the following certifications, helping you build a more competitive profile.
PROFESSIONAL INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS
IINS Recognition · March 2026
The Institute for Spanish Sports Quality grants this extraordinary distinction to Sports Data Campus, in recognition of its leadership, impact, and outstanding contribution to the strategic development of the sports ecosystem, and certifies that the institution meets the requirements and standards established for the sports quality seal.
Career opportunities in set-piece coaching and analysis
Graduates of the MSc Degree in Set Pieces in Football develop skills for professional roles in set-piece coaching, analysis and performance across football clubs, academies, federations and consultancy.
Set-Piece Coach
Design, train and implement attacking and defensive set-piece strategies, assign player roles, analyse performance and make tactical adjustments for matchday execution.
Tactical Analyst
Analyse corners, free kicks and other set-piece situations through video and data to identify patterns, evaluate opponents and support tactical preparation.
Set-Piece Analyst
Analyse set-piece data and video, identify patterns in opponents, evaluate routines and create reports and dashboards to support set-piece coaching decisions.
Physical Performance Coach
Analyse and prepare the physical demands associated with set pieces, including aerial duels, blocks, accelerations, jumps and movement coordination.
Set-Piece Specialist
Work across set-piece coaching and analysis, combining tactical design, opponent analysis, training methodology and performance evaluation within a technical staff.
Set-Piece Strategy Consultant
Support clubs and federations in the development of set-piece frameworks, training methodologies and performance analysis across the season.
ACCESS TO THE INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM IN
SCHOLARSHIPS
Access the international scholarship programme for the MSc Degree in Set Pieces in Football and discover the available funding options to specialise in set-piece coaching, tactical analysis and data-driven execution in professional football.
Why Study the MSc Degree in Set Pieces in Football?
The MSc Degree in Set Pieces in Football enables you to specialise in set-piece coaching, analysis and execution in professional football. You will learn to design attacking and defensive set-piece routines, analyse opponents using video and data, and integrate set-piece work into training.
You will also learn to measure set-piece performance to support tactical planning, player preparation and matchday decision-making.
Por que fazer o nosso Mestrado?
Realizar um mestrado no Sports Data Campus permitir-te-á formar-te com especialistas do setor, adquirir ferramentas avançadas para gerir e analisar dados aplicados ao desporto, e destacar-te num mercado em constante evolução que exige profissionais altamente capacitados
UNIQUE EDUCATION
Exclusive, industry-focused content
LEADING CAMPUS
A global community focused on Big Data and sports
OVER 3,100 STUDENTS
Professionals trained across major leagues and sports
REAL PARTNERSHIPS
Over 100 professional clubs and teams
CONTINUOUS SUPPORT
We are always available to support you
NETWORKING
Discover opportunities within our professional community
OFFICIAL CERTIFICATION
Master’s degree certified by UCAM
TOP FACULTY
Masterclasses and exclusive events with industry experts
SCHOLARSHIPS
Discover our scholarship and study support programme
PROFESSIONAL PORTFOLIO
Build a portfolio through your final project and practical work
What We Offer
Programme of the MSc Degree in Set Pieces in Football
The MSc Degree in Set Pieces in Football is a specialised programme focused on set-piece coaching, analysis and execution in professional football, combining tactical methodology, data and practical application with training led by experienced football professionals and certification from UCAM.
VACIO
BLOCK 1: Fundamentals of set pieces in the game
This block provides the theoretical, historical, methodological, and strategic foundations for understanding the set piece as an essential phase of the game. Through an analysis of its evolution throughout football history, the cultural differences in its application, and specific comprehensive understanding of the rationale behind each set piece. Furthermore, the principles governing its tactical integration within a team’s game model are explored, preparing students to plan, justify, and defend technical decisions from a grounded and current perspective.
1.1. History, evolution and tactical culture of the set piece
- 1.1.1. Historical evolution of the set piece in international tournaments
- 1.1.2. Trends and styles by country (South America, Europe, Asia)
- 1.1.3. Influence of the regulations and VAR on current execution
- 1.1.4. Case studies: Italy 2006, Germany 2014, Argentina 2022
1.2. Actual Set Piece Trends
- 1.2.1. Dominant trends in offensive corners (2020–2025)
- 1.2.2. Free-kick evolution in the modern game
- 1.2.3. Defensive innovation against SPs
1.3. Set Plays Importance and Recent Historical Development in Elite Football
- 1.3.1. Growing impact of Set Plays in modern football outcomes
- 1.3.2. Coaching and institutional transformation
- 1.3.3. Tactical identity and match design around SP
- 1.3.4. Coordination with other areas of the technical staff
BLOCK 2: Technical-tactical analysis of set pieces
This block focuses on an in-depth analysis of set pieces from a tactical and structural perspective. It examines the different models of offensive and defensive organization, the most common execution patterns in professional football, and the technical response a coaching staff must develop to these behaviors. Students will learn to design plays, analyze opponents’ plays, and adapt creative and effective solutions based on the context. Through the study of structures, advanced scouting, and the development of adaptive plays, professionals are equipped to intervene precisely and effectively in one of the most decisive phases of the game.
2.1. Marking systems, positioning and structures
- 2.1.1. Defensive marking models: individual, zonal and mixed
- 2.1.2. Offensive positioning according to the taker and finisher profile
- 2.1.3. Individual roles and responsibilities in each structure
- 2.1.4. Rest defending and 2nd Phase in Set Pieces
2.2. Data and Metrics in Set Piece Analysis
- 2.2.1. Fundamental metrics for set-piece evaluation
- 2.2.2. Tactical profiling through data
- 2.2.3. Dashboards, software and applied scouting
2.3. The other Set Pieces
- 2.3.1. Penalties and shootouts
- 2.3.2. Throw-ins by field zone
- 2.3.3. Kick-off and rare dead ball situations
BLOCK 3: Set Piece Planning, Innovation and Game Direction
Overview This block focuses on the applied practice of managing set pieces across the full performance cycle: from the design and teaching process to innovation based on opponent analysis, and finally to decision-making during the match. Students will gain the methodological tools to implement structured SP training within team microcycles, design creative routines tailored to opponent behaviors, and make tactical interventions live during matches. The block emphasizes clarity, adaptability, and creative problem-solving—skills essential for any coach specializing in this decisive phase of the game.
3.1. Set Piece Training Methodology
- 3.1.1. Planning SP work within the weekly microcycle
- 3.1.2. Coaching methodology for SP sessions
- 3.1.3. Evaluating and adjusting set piece training
3.2. Creating Creative Set Pieces from Analysis and how to coach them
- 3.2.1. Analysis as the foundation of creativity
- 3.2.2. Designing creative routines
- 3.2.3. Coaching and consolidating creative routines
3.3. Game Direction in Set Pieces
- 3.3.1. In-game reading and live tactical decisions
- 3.3.2. Halftime and limited-time coaching
- 3.3.3. Substitutions, injury and final minutes management
BLOCK 4: Final Master’s Project (PFM)
The Master’s Final Project represents the comprehensive conclusion of the program, allowing students to apply the knowledge acquired throughout the master’s program in a realistic, rigorous, and autonomous manner. Through this project, students will develop an analytical, tactical, or technological project related to set pieces, either from a perspective applied to sports performance, from a tactical innovation perspective, or through the development of predictive models. The project may be based on real data, videos of professional teams, intervention proposals, or theoretical and practical research, and will be developed with the support of an expert tutor.
This block is mandatory for those wishing to obtain certification as a European Master (UCAM University).
4.1. Possible project modalities
4.2. Phases of the final work
4.3. Evaluation
BLOCK 5: “Residency” In-Person Week at the University of North Carolina (optional)
The in-person week at The University of North Carolina Wilmington (optional) represents one of the distinguishing pillars of the Master’s in Soccer Set Pieces. Conceived as an international immersion program, this program combines high-level theoretical and practical sessions with unique cultural and sporting experiences. Over five days, students will experience soccer from a global perspective, develop set pieces with real university players, work alongside American coaches, and strengthen their network of contacts in an excellent academic environment.
- Day 1 – Welcome and introduction to US college football
- Day 2 – Fundamentals of SET PLAY in an American context
- Day 3 – Training, data, and applied analysis
- Day 4 – Tactical preparation and professional presentation
- Day 5 – Evaluation, networking and closing
- Days 6 and 7 – Fun weekend: Attending a game, visiting stadiums, teams, excursions, sightseeing, etc.
Analytical Itinerary
This programme runs in parallel with the Master’s degree and awards its own independent certification: “Certificate in Data Analysis Applied to Set Pieces”.
VACIO
MODULE 1: Introduction to the analysis of set-piece data
- Analytical Itinerary: Fundamentals of Data Analysis in Football: Current Context – Pablo Sanzol
- Analytical Itinerary: Types of Set Piece Reports – Pablo Sanzol
- Analytical Itinerary: Practical Cases of PBL – Carles Cuadrat
MODULE 2: Data providers and set pieces
- Analytical Itinerary: Football Data Providers Ecosystem (General) – Pedro Picchioni
- Analytical Itinerary: Open Data Providers in Football (Focus on Set Pieces) – Rodrigo Picchioni
- Analytical Itinerary: Data Providers for Set Pieces – Slope
MODULE 3: Video analysis of set pieces: tools
- Analytical Itinerary: Introduction to Video Analysis in Football: Sportcode, Nac Sports, Metrica, Longomatch – Fredi Martín
- Analytical Itinerary: Explanation of the chosen Video Analysis tool (Maximum 2) – Fredi Martín
- Analytical Itinerary: NacSport Button Panels for ABP Analysis – Carlos Domínguez
MODULE 4: Video analysis of set pieces: metodology
- Analytical Itinerary: Video analysis of set pieces – José Rodríguez
- Analytical Itinerary: Working with Data Exported from the Video Analytics Tool – José Rodríguez
MODULE 5: Specific metrics for set pieces
- Key metrics for game analysis in football – Pablo Sanzol
- Specific metrics applied to set pieces – Pablo Sanzol
- Analytical Itinerary: PBLs from the Goalkeeper’s Perspective – Pablo Moreno (Valencia Mestalla)
MODULE 6: Set piece dashboards with Tableau
- Analytical Itinerary:Tableau Fundamentals – Pablo Sanzol
- Analytical Itinerary: Specific Dashboards for Set Pieces with Teableau – Pablo Sanzol
MODULE 7: Set piece dashboards with PowerBI
- Analytical Itinerary:Power BI Fundamentals – David Fombella
- Analytical Itinerary: Dashboards of Set Pieces with Power BI – David Fombella
MODULE 8: Physical analysis and set pieces
- Analytical Itinerary: Biological Maturation & PHV Analytics in Elite Football – Cristóbal Fuentes
- Analytical Itinerary: Force Profiling & CMJ Performance Analytics Using Force Platforms – Cristóbal Fuentes
MODULE 9: Artificial Intelligence at the service of set-piece analysis
- Analytical Itinerary: Fundamentals of AI in football – André Silveira
- Analytical Itinerary: Artificial Intelligence at the Service of Set Piece Analysis – André Silveira
MODULE 10: Final Masters Project: Dashboards for the Master's Thesis Project
- Analytical Itinerary: Support in the creation of dashboards associated with the Master’s Thesis Project – Pablo Sanzol
You will work with these providers of football data, tools, and video analytics platforms
Objectives and skills
Tactical Design
Creating innovative attacking and defensive set-piece routines tailored to team strengths and opposition weaknesses.
Performance Analysis
Using video, data, and analytics to evaluate set-piece effectiveness and identify elite-level trends.
Coaching Methodology
Developing and delivering training sessions to embed set-piece strategies within the game model.
Execution Under Pressure
Preparing players for psychological and physical demands of set-piece situations in competition.
Innovation & Creativity
Generating novel solutions and adapting strategies in response to evolving opposition tactics.
Leadership & Communication
Presenting clear, actionable information to players, coaches, and multidisciplinary staff.
Research & Critical Thinking
Applying academic frameworks to practical coaching challenges, bridging theory with elite practice.
Direct, hands-on connection
Through the Professional Extension Department, access real projects and opportunities in clubs, federations, and sector companies.
ACADEMIC DIRECTION

Austin MacPhee
Chelsea Set-Piece Coach (Premier League) & Assistant Coach, Chelsea

David R. Sáez
CEO at Sports Data Campus (ENIIT / Big Data International Campus)

José Rodríguez
Set-Piece Coach at Elche CF

André Silveira
Chief International Development Officer at Sports Data Campus
FACULTY
Top-tier faculty at your service

Austin MacPhee
Chelsea Set-Piece Coach (Premier League) & Assistant Coach, Chelsea

José Rodríguez
Set-Piece Coach at Elche CF

David R. Sáez
CEO at Sports Data Campus (ENIIT / Big Data International Campus)

Lucas Bracamonte
Professional Extension Director
MASTERCLASS
Professional analysts, sports directors, coaches, staff…

Bernardo Silva
Real Madrid CF and Portugal National Team Footballer

Roberto Martínez
Coach of the Portuguese national football team

Bruno Fernandes
Manchester United F.C. and Portugal National Team Footballer

Mads Buttgereit
Assistant Coach - Specialization in Set Pieces, German National Team

Ross Grant
Club’s first Set Play Coach at Celtic FC

Andrew Hughes
Set Pieces Coach Leicester & Scotland National Team

John McGinn
Aston Villa Captain

Jordan Garbutt
Head of Football at TrackMan

Pablo Sanzol
Sports Director and Sports Consultant – Professional Football Expert

Carles Cuadrat
Head Coach Philippines NT

Pedro Picchioni
Head of Football Intelligence at Clube Atlético Mineiro

Dean Smith
Charlotte FC Head Coach

Fredi Martin
Professional Football Coach and Academic Director at Sports Data Campus

Carlos Domínguez
Nacsport Sales Management

Pablo Moreno
Goalkeeper Coach at Valencia Mestalla

Rodrigo Picchioni
Lead Data Scout at AS Monaco

Cristóbal Fuentes
Head of Performance at Elche F.C

André Silveira
Chief International Development Officer at Sports Data Campus

David Fombella
Business Consultant at Stratebi
Because in collaboration lies strength
PROUD OF OUR NETWORK OF PARTNERS, WHICH CONTINUES TO GROW EVERY DAY
Clubs, Federations, Confederations and Sports Entities
































































Companies and Industry









































































WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY
We are extremely proud of every student who has trained at Sports Data Campus and is now part of this great family.
Thank you all for your effort and support! 🙂
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
VACIO
El Big Data ha abierto una puerta transversal para su óptima aplicación al deporte, en concreto, al fútbol. Por ello, es una herramienta útil para reforzar la construcción de la dirección deportiva. Es muy difícil entender uno de los estamentos más importantes de un club de fútbol sin la aplicación del dato de forma profesionalizada. En definitiva, el dato es un pilar básico que ayuda a optimizar procesos, así como a detectar talento en cualquier competición y a reducir al mínimo el factor suerte.
- Big Data y fútbol.
- Estructura, organización y planificación de una dirección deportiva de fútbol.
- Los pilares básicos de una dirección deportiva.
- El seguimiento en bruto y en neto.
- Los perfiles.
- La negociación.
- La adaptación.
- El dato y la reducción del factor suerte.
- La cantera..
Is this program for me?
Yes. The MSc Degree in Set Pieces in Football is designed for coaches, tactical analysts, performance staff, former players and professionals from clubs, academies and federations who want to specialise in set-piece coaching and analysis.
It is also suitable for people who want to develop a professional career in set pieces without previous experience in this specific area.
Can I balance it with my job or family?
Yes. The programme is 100% online and provides 24/7 access to learning materials through the Virtual Classroom. Live sessions are recorded, allowing you to combine the MSc with work and personal responsibilities.
Students receive the academic calendar in advance and have access to personalised tutoring, academic follow-up, course forums and technical support throughout the programme.
What if I can’t attend live sessions or something unexpected comes up during the Masters?
All classes, tutorials and masterclasses are recorded and available through the Virtual Classroom, so you can access sessions and learning materials when you are unable to attend live.
If an unexpected situation affects your studies, the tutor and Academic Coordination team provide individual follow-up to help you reorganise your learning within the academic calendar.
Will I have the opportunity to build real networking in the football industry?
Yes. Students join the Sports Data Campus professional community and interact with alumni, faculty members and football professionals through live sessions, masterclasses, working groups and community channels.
The programme also provides contact with professionals from clubs and national teams, creating networking opportunities within professional football.
VACIO
El Big Data ha abierto una puerta transversal para su óptima aplicación al deporte, en concreto, al fútbol. Por ello, es una herramienta útil para reforzar la construcción de la dirección deportiva. Es muy difícil entender uno de los estamentos más importantes de un club de fútbol sin la aplicación del dato de forma profesionalizada. En definitiva, el dato es un pilar básico que ayuda a optimizar procesos, así como a detectar talento en cualquier competición y a reducir al mínimo el factor suerte.
- Big Data y fútbol.
- Estructura, organización y planificación de una dirección deportiva de fútbol.
- Los pilares básicos de una dirección deportiva.
- El seguimiento en bruto y en neto.
- Los perfiles.
- La negociación.
- La adaptación.
- El dato y la reducción del factor suerte.
- La cantera..
Does the programme provide career opportunities in professional football?
The Professional Extension Department connects Sports Data Campus students with professional opportunities across football clubs, companies and federations, including applied projects, collaborations and other industry opportunities.
The MSc also develops skills for professional roles in set-piece coaching, set-piece analysis and football performance, while connecting students with the Sports Data Campus professional ecosystem.
What certifications will I obtain at the end of the Master’s?
Students who complete the programme receive the Master’s Diploma of Continuing Education from UCAM.
The MSc also includes complementary certifications in:
- Catapult Performance
- LongoMatch Video Analysis
- Soft Skills from Sports Data Campus
- Fundamentals of the Game from Sport Coach Norte
These certifications are included in the programme tuition.
What if I’m starting “from zero” and don’t have previous experience?
You can start the programme without previous professional experience in set pieces. The MSc follows a progressive learning path, beginning with the foundations of set-piece tactics and analysis before advancing towards professional applications.
This progression allows students entering the field to build knowledge in tactical analysis, video, data and set-piece performance throughout the programme.
Do I need previous experience or technical knowledge?
No. You do not need previous professional experience or programming skills to join the MSc. The programme starts with the fundamentals and progressively introduces video analysis, data, metrics and professional software applied to set pieces.
Students with previous football experience can use the same programme to develop a more specialised profile in set-piece coaching and analysis.
Take the Next Step in Your Career
Request information and speak with the Sports Data Campus academic team. We will provide personalised guidance and answer your questions about our programmes, methodology, entry requirements, career opportunities and admissions process.
Request Information


