England vs Wales Tactical Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's Fresh Approach Explained
The Welsh national team have changed their style of play with Bellamy.
By comparing the previous manager's last dozen matches as coach to Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, a noticeable shift has been a new approach emphasizing possession and dominating games with the ball.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Football
Under Page, Wales' intense style focused on applying high pressure without possession, mainly in wide areas, typically using a adaptable 3-4-3 setup to push forward aggressively.
Craig Bellamy's Different Style
The new coach has consistently employed a defensive line of four, encouraging his players to hold the ball and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Differences
This tactical shift has resulted in a much greater possession rate, a increased pass count and a slight reduction in how frequently they lose possession in advanced positions.
Wales also boast a improved expected goals metric with Bellamy.
Key Consideration
Do Bellamy's strategies give Wales a improved likelihood of overcoming England?
The strategic changes since the change signifies a significant departure away from Page's methods.
- Higher possession rates
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Less giveaways in attack
- Improved expected goals
