Wales vs England Tactical Breakdown: Bellamy's New Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have changed their style of play with Craig Bellamy.
When comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches in charge with Craig Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, a noticeable shift is a tactical switch prioritizing ball control and dominating games with the ball.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Football
During Page's tenure, The Welsh aggressive tactics centered around pressing intensely without possession, mainly in wide areas, predominantly using a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Bellamy's New Direction
The new coach has only utilized a defensive line of four, urging the squad to get on the ball and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Changes
The new strategy has resulted in a significantly increased possession rate, a more completed passes and a slight reduction in how often they turn the ball over in advanced positions.
Wales also boast a higher expected goals tally under Bellamy.
The Big Question
Can Bellamy's approach provide Wales a improved likelihood of beating England?
The strategic changes under Bellamy represents a clear move away from the old system.
- Higher possession rates
- More patient build-up
- Reduced high turnovers
- Better xG numbers
