England vs Wales Strategic Analysis: Craig Bellamy's Fresh Approach Explained
Wales have changed their style of play with their new coach.
When comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games in charge with Bellamy's opening 12 leading Wales, an obvious difference is a new approach prioritizing ball control and dominating games with the ball.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Football
With Page in charge, The Welsh aggressive tactics focused on pressing aggressively without possession, mainly in the wings, mostly employing a fluid 3-4-3 formation to attack directly.
Bellamy's Different Style
Bellamy has so far exclusively used a back four, urging the squad to maintain possession and develop plays more methodically.
Statistical Differences
The change in approach has resulted in a far higher average ball control, a higher tally of passes and a small decrease in how often they turn the ball over in advanced positions.
Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric since Bellamy took over.
Key Consideration
Do Bellamy's strategies provide Wales a better opportunity of overcoming England?
The new approach under Bellamy demonstrates a clear move from Page's methods.
- More ball control
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Enhanced scoring probability