England vs Wales Tactical Breakdown: Bellamy's New Approach Unpacked
Wales have adjusted their method of football under their new coach.
When comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches in charge to Craig Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, an obvious difference has been a new approach to focus more on ball control and dominating games through possession.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Football
With Page in charge, Wales' intense style was based on pressing intensely off the ball, mainly in the wings, typically using a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Bellamy's New Direction
Craig Bellamy has consistently employed a defensive line of four, encouraging his players to maintain possession and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Shifts
This tactical shift has led to 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 attacking areas.
The team also shows a higher expected goals tally since Bellamy took over.
Key Consideration
Will Bellamy's tactics offer Wales a greater chance of beating England?
The new approach since the change signifies a significant departure from Page's methods.
- Increased possession
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Reduced high turnovers
- Improved expected goals
