Wales vs England Strategic Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's Fresh Style Unpacked
Wales have adjusted their style of play with Bellamy.
Looking at the previous manager's last dozen matches as coach to Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, an obvious difference is a strategic change emphasizing possession and dominating games with the ball.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Football
With Page in charge, Wales' high-energy approach centered around pressing aggressively off the ball, especially in the wings, typically using a adaptable 3-4-3 setup to push forward aggressively.
Bellamy's Fresh Approach
The new coach has consistently employed a back four, pushing the team to hold the ball and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Differences
This tactical shift has resulted in a significantly increased ball control, a more completed passes and a slight reduction in how often they turn the ball over in attacking areas.
Wales also boast a improved expected goals metric under Bellamy.
The Big Question
Can Bellamy's approach offer Wales a greater chance of overcoming England?
The strategic changes under Bellamy demonstrates a significant departure away from the previous regime.
- Increased possession
- More patient build-up
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Improved expected goals
