How this calculator works
Save percentage divides saves by shots on target. Goals against average scales goals allowed to a standard match length, usually 90 minutes in soccer. A goalkeeper can have a strong save percentage and a poor goals against average if they face many shots, or the reverse on a well-defended team. The index compares the save rate with a league average and multiplies by 100, so 100 is average.
Formula
Save percentage = saves / shots on target. Goals against average = goals allowed x regulation minutes / minutes played. Index = (save percentage / league average) x 100.
Worked example
A goalkeeper makes 100 saves from 140 shots on target and allows 40 goals in 5,400 minutes of 90-minute matches. Save percentage is 100 / 140 = 71.4 percent. Goals against average is 40 x 90 / 5,400 = 0.67. With a league average of 70 percent, the index is 71.4 / 70 x 100 = 102.0.
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Frequently asked questions
Is save percentage or goals against average better?
They answer different questions. Save percentage measures shot stopping; goals against average also reflects how many shots the team allows. Use them together and compare goalkeepers in similar teams.
Do penalty kicks count?
Rules vary by competition and provider. Some sources count penalty kicks in shots on target and saves, and some exclude shootouts. Check the definition used by your league before comparing values.
Why might goals allowed not equal shots minus saves?
Own goals are not shots on target, and some deflected shots may be scored without being credited as a shot on target. A mismatch is a sign to check the source data, not necessarily an error.