England vs Wales Strategic Breakdown: Bellamy's Fresh Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have changed their approach of football with Bellamy.
By comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches as coach to Craig Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, one clear change has been a tactical switch to focus more on ball control and controlling matches through possession.
The Page Era: High-Energy Play
With Page in charge, The Welsh aggressive tactics was based on pressing aggressively without possession, particularly 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 four-man defense, encouraging his players to hold the ball and develop plays with greater patience.
Measurable Shifts
The change in approach has led to a significantly increased ball control, a more completed passes and a slight reduction in how often they turn the ball over in advanced positions.
The team also shows a higher expected goals tally since Bellamy took over.
The Big Question
Will Bellamy's tactics give Wales a better opportunity of defeating England?
The tactical evolution with the new coach signifies a clear move from the old system.
- More ball control
- More patient build-up
- Less giveaways in attack
- Better xG numbers
