England vs Wales Strategic Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's New Style Explained
Wales have changed their method of football under Bellamy.
By comparing the previous manager's final 12 games as coach with Craig Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, one clear change has been a new approach emphasizing ball control and dominating games with the ball.
The Page Era: High-Energy Play
With Page in charge, The Welsh aggressive tactics was based on applying high pressure off the ball, particularly in the flanks, predominantly using a fluid 3-4-3 formation to push forward aggressively.
Bellamy's Fresh Approach
Bellamy has consistently employed a back four, pushing the team to maintain possession and develop plays in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Differences
The new strategy has produced a significantly increased ball control, a more completed passes and a small decrease in how regularly they give the ball away in advanced positions.
Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric under Bellamy.
Key Consideration
Will Bellamy's tactics provide Wales a improved likelihood of beating England?
The strategic changes under Bellamy demonstrates a notable shift away from the old system.
- Higher possession rates
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Reduced high turnovers
- Improved expected goals
