Wales vs England Tactical Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's New Approach Explained
Wales have adjusted their approach of play under their new coach.
Looking at Robert Page’s last dozen matches as coach to Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, an obvious difference is a strategic change prioritizing possession and controlling matches through possession.
The Page Era: High-Energy Play
Under Page, The Welsh aggressive tactics was based on applying high pressure off the ball, mainly in wide areas, predominantly using a flexible 3-4-3 system to push forward aggressively.
Craig Bellamy's Different Style
The new coach has so far exclusively used a four-man defense, encouraging his players to hold the ball and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Changes
This tactical shift has resulted in a significantly increased possession rate, a increased pass count and a modest drop in how regularly they give the ball away in advanced positions.
Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric since Bellamy took over.
Key Consideration
Can Bellamy's approach give Wales a improved likelihood of defeating England?
The new approach since the change signifies a significant departure away from the previous regime.
- Increased possession
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Less giveaways in attack
- Enhanced scoring probability
