Wales vs England Strategic Analysis: Bellamy's New Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have altered their approach of football under their new coach.
When comparing the previous manager's last dozen matches in charge with Craig Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, one clear change has been a new approach prioritizing possession and controlling matches through possession.
The Page Era: Aggressive Football
With Page in charge, Wales' high-energy approach was based on pressing intensely without possession, especially in the wings, mostly employing a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Bellamy's New Direction
Craig Bellamy has so far exclusively used a four-man defense, pushing the team to maintain possession and build attacks more methodically.
Statistical Shifts
The new strategy has led to a much greater possession rate, a more completed passes and a modest drop in how regularly they give the ball away in advanced positions.
Wales also boast a better xG statistics under Bellamy.
Key Consideration
Do Bellamy's strategies offer Wales a better opportunity of defeating England?
The tactical evolution under Bellamy demonstrates a notable shift from Page's methods.
- More ball control
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Improved expected goals
