Wales vs England Strategic Analysis: Craig Bellamy's New Style Explained
Wales have altered their style of football with Bellamy.
Looking at Robert Page’s final 12 games as coach to Craig Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, a noticeable shift has been a new approach emphasizing ball control and controlling matches through possession.
The Page Era: High-Energy Play
Under Page, The Welsh high-energy approach was based on pressing intensely off the ball, especially in the flanks, mostly employing a adaptable 3-4-3 setup to push forward aggressively.
Bellamy's Fresh Approach
Craig Bellamy has only utilized a defensive line of four, pushing the team to maintain possession and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Differences
This tactical shift has resulted in a significantly increased possession rate, a increased pass count and a small decrease in how often they turn the ball over high up the pitch.
Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric since Bellamy took over.
The Big Question
Will Bellamy's tactics offer Wales a greater chance of beating England?
The new approach since the change demonstrates a notable shift from the old system.
- Increased possession
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Reduced high turnovers
- Enhanced scoring probability
