Wales vs England Tactical Analysis: Craig Bellamy's New Approach Unpacked
Wales have altered their method of play under their new coach.
By comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches in charge to Craig Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, a noticeable shift is a new approach emphasizing possession and controlling matches with the ball.
The Page Era: High-Energy Football
With Page in charge, Wales' intense style centered around pressing intensely without possession, mainly in the wings, mostly employing a flexible 3-4-3 system to attack directly.
Craig Bellamy's New Direction
Craig Bellamy has only utilized a defensive line of four, encouraging his players to maintain possession and develop plays in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Changes
The new strategy has led to a significantly increased amount of possession, a higher tally of passes and a small decrease in how regularly they give the ball away in attacking areas.
Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric under Bellamy.
Key Consideration
Will Bellamy's tactics give Wales a improved likelihood of defeating England?
The tactical evolution with the new coach demonstrates a notable shift away from the old system.
- More ball control
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Less giveaways in attack
- Enhanced scoring probability
