Wales vs England Strategic Analysis: Bellamy's New Approach Explained
Wales have changed their method of football under Craig Bellamy.
Looking at the previous manager's final 12 games as coach with Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, one clear change has been a tactical switch emphasizing ball control and controlling matches with the ball.
The Page Era: High-Energy Play
Under Page, The Welsh aggressive tactics centered around applying high pressure without possession, mainly in the flanks, typically using a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Bellamy's Fresh Approach
The new coach has consistently employed a back four, urging the squad to hold the ball and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Changes
This tactical shift has resulted in a significantly increased ball control, a more completed passes and a modest drop in how frequently they lose possession in advanced positions.
Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric with Bellamy.
Key Consideration
Do Bellamy's strategies give Wales a better opportunity of defeating England?
The new approach since the change signifies a significant departure from Page's methods.
- Increased possession
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Less giveaways in attack
- Better xG numbers
