Wales vs England Strategic Breakdown: Bellamy's Fresh Approach Unpacked
Wales have changed their method of football with Bellamy.
When comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games as coach with Craig Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, one clear change has been a new approach prioritizing ball control and dominating games through possession.
Under Robert Page: Aggressive Football
Under Page, Wales' aggressive tactics centered around pressing aggressively without possession, mainly in wide areas, mostly employing a flexible 3-4-3 system to attack directly.
Bellamy's Different Style
Craig Bellamy has consistently employed a four-man defense, encouraging his players to hold the ball and build attacks more methodically.
Statistical Differences
The change in approach has resulted in a far higher average ball control, a increased pass count and a small decrease in how often they turn the ball over high up the pitch.
Additionally, Wales displays a better xG statistics with Bellamy.
Key Consideration
Will Bellamy's tactics offer Wales a greater chance of defeating England?
The strategic changes under Bellamy represents a significant departure from Page's methods.
- Higher possession rates
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Better xG numbers
