Wales vs England Strategic Breakdown: Bellamy's New Approach Explained
The Welsh national team have altered their method of play under Craig Bellamy.
Looking at Robert Page’s final 12 games as coach with Craig Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, one clear change is a tactical switch prioritizing ball control and controlling matches with the ball.
Under Robert Page: Aggressive Football
With Page in charge, Wales' high-energy approach focused on pressing aggressively without possession, particularly in the flanks, mostly employing a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Bellamy's New Direction
The new coach has consistently employed a defensive line of four, pushing the team to hold the ball and develop plays more methodically.
Measurable Shifts
The change in approach has resulted in a much greater amount of possession, a higher tally of passes and a slight reduction 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 give Wales a better opportunity of defeating England?
The tactical evolution since the change represents a clear move away from Page's methods.
- Higher possession rates
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Less giveaways in attack
- Enhanced scoring probability
