Wales vs England Tactical Breakdown: Bellamy's Fresh Approach Unpacked
The Welsh national team have adjusted their method of football under their new coach.
Looking at Robert Page’s final 12 games in charge with Craig Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, an obvious difference is a tactical switch prioritizing ball control and dominating games through possession.
The Page Era: High-Energy Football
With Page in charge, The Welsh intense style was based on pressing intensely without possession, mainly in the wings, mostly employing a adaptable 3-4-3 setup for direct attacks.
Bellamy's Different Style
The new coach has so far exclusively used a back four, pushing the team to get on the ball and develop plays with greater patience.
Statistical Differences
The new strategy has led to a significantly increased amount of possession, a increased pass count and a small decrease in how often they turn the ball over in attacking areas.
Wales also boast a improved expected goals metric under Bellamy.
The Big Question
Can Bellamy's approach offer Wales a greater chance of defeating England?
The strategic changes under Bellamy represents a clear move away from the previous regime.
- Increased possession
- More patient build-up
- Reduced high turnovers
- Better xG numbers