High-level data is and will help transform sports both on-and-off the field, whether for on-field performance, player health and recovery and even adding new insights into the scouting process.
Aldo Comi, CEO of all-in-one sports analytics platform Soccerment, spoke on the evolution US soccer in particular is experiencing as a league competing against the likes of the NFL, NBA and MLB.
Comi revealed to Insider Sport what solutions the company is providing as part of the MLS Innovation Lab, how it is helping media broadcasters to tell stories differently and how the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the US could be the catalyst for a post-tournament soccer boom.
Insider Sport: Firstly Aldo, for those uninitiated with Soccerment, can you briefly describe the company and what it does to stand out from its competitors?
Aldo Comi: Soccerment is a football data analytics company dedicated to enhancing the understanding of football through data-driven insights. Our tools provide detailed performance analysis for players, coaches and clubs, helping to make more informed decisions on and off the pitch.
What sets us apart is our focus on the use of AI-driven advanced metrics, which better describe the underlying performances of players and teams and improve predictive analytics.
IS: As a part of the MLS Innovation Lab, what technology is Soccerment bringing to the platform that will enable further fan engagement and performance analysis?
AC: We’re bringing two key technologies: the XVALUE platform and XSEED. Together, these solutions generate a whole new level of analysis that can be applied not only to the professional game but also to youth sectors, which is crucial for long-term development.
XVALUE focuses on advanced performance metrics and tactical analysis, enabling clubs to dive deep into match and player performance. Meanwhile, our XSEED smart shin guards capture data on player movements, physical exertion, and technical actions.
The integration of XVALUE and XSEED allows for a seamless flow of data from the field to the analysis platform, offering a comprehensive view of the technical, physical and tactical performance. This combination is particularly beneficial in youth development, where identifying talent and optimising player growth is essential.
IS: In what areas are Soccerment looking to elevate media technology as a part of the MLS Innovation Lab?
AC: We’re focused on enhancing the storytelling around football by leveraging data. One key area is the use of predictive analytics to forecast match outcomes, player performances, or even injury risks. These insights not only help teams but also media outlets, commentators and fans.
By providing more detailed and dynamic data, we aim to transform how football stories are told, helping broadcasters add richer context during live matches or in post-match analysis.
Additionally, our AI-driven insights can be integrated into various digital platforms, enhancing the overall fan experience by making data more accessible and engaging across different media formats.
IS: MLS as a league competition, how much room is there for growth when it comes to combining technological advancements and the league’s standing amongst some of the other major leagues in the US?
AC: There’s enormous potential for MLS to grow by embracing technology, especially when you look at the trajectory of other major leagues like the NFL and NBA.
MLS has already shown a strong commitment to innovation, and combining that with advanced data analytics can push it even further. By integrating more performance data, wearable technology, and fan-facing platforms, MLS can deepen engagement and attract a broader, tech-savvy audience.
Compared to other leagues, soccer has a unique global appeal, and using technology to make the game more immersive can only elevate its standing, both domestically and internationally.
IS: Has Soccerment observed any other sports data and analytic trends, from the NFL or NBA for instance, and applied them to US soccer?
AC: Yes, we’ve certainly taken note of how sports like the NFL and NBA use data to engage both fans and teams. One trend we’ve seen is the emphasis on real-time analytics and in-game data, which helps both coaches and fans make informed decisions during the game itself.
In US soccer, we’re implementing similar technologies, but adapted to the specific needs of football. For example, wearable tech that tracks player load and movement patterns is something that has been used effectively in other sports, and we’re now bringing that into soccer through our smart shin guards.
This cross-sport adoption of technology is helping us advance the level of analysis available in soccer.
IS: Lastly Aldo, and thank you for your time, do you foresee even more growth within the MLS in all areas after the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
AC: Absolutely. The 2026 World Cup will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for soccer in the US, both at the grassroots and professional levels.
After the tournament, we expect to see increased fan interest, which in turn will drive demand for more sophisticated ways to engage with the sport. This will likely accelerate the adoption of technologies like AI-driven analytics, wearable devices, and immersive fan experiences.
The infrastructure and technological advancements that MLS is already investing in, will position the league to capture this post-World Cup momentum, allowing it to grow in terms of viewership, sponsorship, and global influence.