England vs Wales Strategic Analysis: Craig Bellamy's New Style Explained
Wales have adjusted their approach of football under Bellamy.
By comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games in charge with Craig Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, one clear change has been a new approach to focus more on ball control and dominating games with the ball.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Football
With Page in charge, Wales' high-energy approach was based on applying high pressure without possession, particularly in wide areas, predominantly using a fluid 3-4-3 formation to attack directly.
Bellamy's Fresh Approach
The new coach has so far exclusively used a defensive line of four, urging the squad to hold the ball and develop plays with greater patience.
Measurable Differences
This tactical shift has resulted in a much greater ball control, a more completed passes and a modest drop in how regularly they give the ball away in attacking areas.
Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric since Bellamy took over.
Main Talking Point
Can Bellamy's approach give Wales a improved likelihood of defeating England?
The new approach under Bellamy represents a clear move from the previous regime.
- More ball control
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Less giveaways in attack
- Improved expected goals
