Wales vs England Tactical Breakdown: Bellamy's New Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have adjusted their method of football with Bellamy.
Looking at Robert Page’s final 12 games in charge with Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, a noticeable shift has been a new approach to focus more on ball control and controlling matches with the ball.
The Page Era: Aggressive Football
Under Page, The Welsh intense style focused on pressing aggressively off the ball, particularly in the wings, typically using a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Craig Bellamy's Different Style
The new coach has consistently employed a back four, pushing the team to hold the ball and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.
Measurable Shifts
This tactical shift has produced a far higher average ball control, a higher tally of passes and a small decrease in how often they turn the ball over in advanced positions.
Additionally, Wales displays a higher expected goals tally with Bellamy.
The Big Question
Will Bellamy's tactics provide Wales a improved likelihood of defeating England?
The new approach under Bellamy demonstrates a notable shift away from the old system.
- Higher possession rates
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Less giveaways in attack
- Better xG numbers