University of Reading: Euro 2020 Predictions Game Presents Battle Of Man And Machine

Football fans are being invited to take on experts at the University of Reading at predicting the results of Euro 2020 matches.

A brand new predictions game from the University is challenging the public to predict scores in the upcoming Euro 2020 championships better than a computer model developed by academics in the Department of Economics.

Players will be asked to input their predicted score for each fixture, with the option to join a league table to see how they rank against other players. The table will also include the Reading computer model, which uses data on squad strength combined with recent form and historic results to calculate the most probable score.
“The beauty of economics is it allows us to use real data to predict what could really happen.” – Professor James Reade, Department of Economics

Professor James Reade, a University of Reading football economist behind the predictions game, said: “It’s that time again where England fans either build up their hopes to unreasonable levels, or refuse to entertain the possibility they might win a game. The beauty of economics is it allows us to use real data to predict what could really happen.

“This new game invites players to use whatever tactics they like – be it trawling through the form books or going out on whim – to try and come out on top in the battle between man and machine.”

The computer model, which beat Football Focus pundit Mark Lawrenson at his own game in 2019, has calculated the most likely results for the entire Euro 2020 tournament – including plotting out a scenario where Denmark emerge as shock champions.

Players will also be asked about how confident they feel in their predictions to earn more points, and to provide the researchers running the game with new data to analyse how fans balance the likelihood of results on paper with their personal hunches.