England vs Wales Strategic Analysis: Bellamy's Fresh Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have adjusted their style of play under their new coach.
When comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches as coach to Craig Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, one clear change is a tactical switch emphasizing ball control and controlling matches through possession.
Under Robert Page: Aggressive Play
With Page in charge, Wales' intense style centered around pressing intensely off the ball, mainly in wide areas, mostly employing 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, pushing the team to maintain possession and develop plays more methodically.
Statistical Changes
The change in approach has resulted in a far higher average amount of possession, a higher tally of passes and a slight reduction in how regularly they give the ball away in advanced positions.
The team also shows a improved expected goals metric with Bellamy.
The Big Question
Do Bellamy's strategies give Wales a improved likelihood of defeating England?
The tactical evolution with the new coach represents a notable shift from the previous regime.
- Higher possession rates
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Less giveaways in attack
- Improved expected goals
