Ofc what you can not know is what would have happened had you not watched a match you viewed or watched one you didn't - bigger loss or bigger win, who knows.

I can't say that it makes a difference just like no one can say it doesn't so for me the answer lies in the whole point of a game - entertainment.

If you are not entertained by watching, don't enjoy thinking about what's happening/making changes, don't care about boosters or don't think there is any advantage....then don't watch.

I've joined games after HT where I was drawing and then lost 3 goals in 6 minutes and got humped; and a few games ago I've joined just as we went 2 behind and then made changes and won 4-2. It all depends on whether its the simulation/luck thats going against you or the tactics. You can't change the luck but you can change your tactics.

Btw, I think it makes a difference but sometimes the difference is not enough (and sometimes the difference is me making the wrong changes >.< )

PS. Some matches you could pause and buy 14 high performing 9* players; shove them on in a perfect formation; invite everyone from the Etihad to watch.......and still not win.