England vs Wales Tactical Analysis: Craig Bellamy's New Style Unpacked
Wales have altered their approach of football under their new coach.
Looking at Robert Page’s last dozen matches in charge to Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, a noticeable shift is a new approach emphasizing possession and controlling matches through possession.
Under Robert Page: Aggressive Football
With Page in charge, Wales' aggressive tactics was based on applying high pressure without possession, especially in wide areas, predominantly using a flexible 3-4-3 system to attack directly.
Craig Bellamy's New Direction
Craig Bellamy has consistently employed a four-man defense, urging the squad to maintain possession and develop plays in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Differences
The new strategy has led to a much greater ball control, a increased pass count and a slight reduction in how often they turn the ball over high up the pitch.
Wales also boast a higher expected goals tally since Bellamy took over.
The Big Question
Do Bellamy's strategies give Wales a improved likelihood of beating England?
The tactical evolution under Bellamy demonstrates a notable shift from Page's methods.
- More ball control
- More patient build-up
- Less giveaways in attack
- Better xG numbers
