England vs Wales Strategic Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's Fresh Style Explained
The Welsh national team have changed their method of football with Bellamy.
By comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches as coach to Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, an obvious difference is a tactical switch to focus more on ball control and dominating games through possession.
The Page Era: Aggressive Play
During Page's tenure, The Welsh intense style was based on pressing intensely without possession, mainly in the flanks, predominantly using a adaptable 3-4-3 setup to attack directly.
Craig Bellamy's New Direction
Bellamy has only utilized a four-man defense, encouraging his players to get on the ball and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Shifts
The change in approach has led to a significantly increased ball control, a higher tally of passes and a small decrease in how regularly they give the ball away in attacking areas.
Additionally, Wales displays a better xG statistics under Bellamy.
The Big Question
Can Bellamy's approach offer Wales a improved likelihood of overcoming England?
The new approach under Bellamy signifies a notable shift away from the previous regime.
- Increased possession
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Less giveaways in attack
- Better xG numbers
