Wales vs England Tactical Analysis: Craig Bellamy's New Approach Explained
Wales have adjusted their style of football with Bellamy.
By comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches as coach to Craig Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, one clear change has been a tactical switch emphasizing possession and controlling matches with the ball.
The Page Era: High-Energy Play
Under Page, The Welsh aggressive tactics was based on pressing aggressively without possession, especially in the flanks, typically using a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Craig Bellamy's Different Style
Bellamy has only utilized a defensive line of four, encouraging his players to get on the ball and build attacks more methodically.
Measurable Shifts
The change in approach has produced a significantly increased possession rate, a increased pass count and a modest drop in how often they turn the ball over in advanced positions.
Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric with Bellamy.
Main Talking Point
Can Bellamy's approach provide Wales a better opportunity of beating England?
The new approach with the new coach represents a notable shift from the old system.
- More ball control
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Less giveaways in attack
- Better xG numbers
