Wales vs England Strategic Analysis: Bellamy's Fresh Approach Unpacked
The Welsh national team have changed their style of football with Craig Bellamy.
Looking at the previous manager's last dozen matches in charge to Bellamy's opening 12 leading Wales, a noticeable shift has been a tactical switch prioritizing possession and controlling matches with the ball.
The Page Era: Aggressive Football
Under Page, Wales' intense style focused on pressing intensely off the ball, mainly in wide areas, typically using a adaptable 3-4-3 setup to push forward aggressively.
Bellamy's New Direction
Bellamy has consistently employed a four-man defense, urging the squad to get on the ball and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.
Measurable Differences
This tactical shift has produced a much greater ball control, a increased pass count and a small decrease in how frequently they lose possession high up the pitch.
The team also shows a higher expected goals tally with Bellamy.
Main Talking Point
Will Bellamy's tactics offer Wales a improved likelihood of defeating England?
The new approach with the new coach signifies a significant departure from the previous regime.
- More ball control
- More patient build-up
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Improved expected goals