Abstract South American soccer has distinct characteristics that have a direct impact on team performance and points ratio in competitions. Therefore, this paper analyzes the factors influencing the points ratio of teams in the three major South American soccer leagues in Brazil, Argentina and Chile, during 2022–2024 seasons. We use distributional regression models, also known as generalized additive models for location, scale, and shape, which allow the identification of different factors that affect (both linearly and non-linearly) not only the average (or median) points ratio but also other characteristics such as, for example, the dispersion of the data. The results indicate that the variables goals scored, goals conceded, clean sheets, accurate passes, tackles, saves, fouls, red cards, and the league in question have a significant influence on the median performance of the teams. Additionally, the number of assists, dribbles, saves, yellow cards, and shots against affect the variability in points at the end of the championship. Thus, we can conclude that success in South American soccer is determined by a combination of offensive, defensive, disciplinary, and contextual factors, emphasizing the importance of balanced strategies. Understanding these relationships can assist coaches and analysts in making more informed decisions to improve team performance.
Rosa et al. (Sat,) studied this question.