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Major League Soccer to Track Player Movements for TV, Gamblers

  • Deal with Second Spectrum will scan players 25 times a second
  • MLS joins NBA, NFL and NHL in deploying similar technology
Seattle Sounders midfielder Victor Rodriguez #8 scores a goal during a game against Toronto FC on Nov. 10.
Seattle Sounders midfielder Victor Rodriguez #8 scores a goal during a game against Toronto FC on Nov. 10.Photographer: Craig Mitchelldyer/ISI Photos/Getty Images

Major League Soccer has signed a wide-ranging partnership with computer-vision company Second Spectrum to track the locations of every player, and the ball, 25 times a second during games.

The goal is to create a database that will improve live broadcasts, help clubs make personnel decisions, and give gamblers more to bet on. The technology will be ready this weekend when MLS kicks off its 25th season.