Wales vs England Strategic Analysis: Craig Bellamy's New Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have adjusted their approach of play under their new coach.
Looking at Robert Page’s final 12 games as coach to Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, an obvious difference is a strategic change emphasizing possession and controlling matches through possession.
The Page Era: Aggressive Play
With Page in charge, Wales' aggressive tactics focused on pressing intensely off the ball, mainly in the wings, mostly employing a adaptable 3-4-3 setup to attack directly.
Craig Bellamy's Different Style
The new coach has so far exclusively used a defensive line of four, encouraging his players to hold the ball and build attacks more methodically.
Measurable Changes
The change in approach has led to a significantly increased possession rate, a more completed passes and a modest drop in how regularly they give the ball away high up the pitch.
The team also shows a higher expected goals tally with Bellamy.
The Big Question
Can Bellamy's approach provide Wales a better opportunity of defeating England?
The new approach with the new coach signifies a clear move from Page's methods.
- Increased possession
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Better xG numbers
