<p>As the 2026 World Cup approaches its end, what is the biggest factor in who wins? Is it extraordinary moments of attacking magic? Gritty defensive organisation? Or is it all just a question of luck and random chance? 
 
We look at how mathematicians and analysists make sense of chaos, xG and unpredictability in the beautiful game. 
 
If you've seen a number in the news you think we should take a look at, email the team: <a href="mailto:moreorless@bbc.co.uk">moreorless@bbc.co.uk</a>
 
CONTRIBUTORS:
 
Ian Graham, former Head of Research at Liverpool FC
David Sumpter, Professor of Applied Mathematics at Uppsala University
Luis Nunes Vicente, Mathematician at Lehigh University
 
CREDITS:
 
Presenter: Lizzy McNeill
Producer: Josh McMinn
Series producer: Tom Colls
Production co-ordinator: Brenda Brown
Sound mix: Dave O'Neill
Editor: Richard Vadon</p>

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