Wales vs England Strategic Breakdown: Bellamy's New Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have adjusted their approach of football under Craig Bellamy.
Looking at the previous manager's final 12 games in charge to Craig Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, an obvious difference has been a strategic change to focus more on ball control and dominating games through possession.
The Page Era: High-Energy Football
During Page's tenure, Wales' high-energy approach focused on pressing aggressively off the ball, particularly in the flanks, typically using a adaptable 3-4-3 setup to push forward aggressively.
Bellamy's Fresh Approach
Bellamy has so far exclusively used a four-man defense, urging the squad to hold the ball and develop plays more methodically.
Statistical Shifts
This tactical shift has resulted in a much greater ball control, a increased pass count and a modest drop in how frequently they lose possession in attacking areas.
Additionally, Wales displays a higher expected goals tally since Bellamy took over.
Key Consideration
Do Bellamy's strategies offer Wales a improved likelihood of beating England?
The new approach with the new coach signifies a notable shift away from Page's methods.
- More ball control
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Less giveaways in attack
- Better xG numbers
