England vs Wales Tactical Analysis: Bellamy's New Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have altered their approach of play with Bellamy.
Looking at the previous manager's final 12 games in charge with Bellamy's opening 12 leading Wales, an obvious difference has been a new approach emphasizing ball control and dominating games with the ball.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Football
With Page in charge, Wales' intense style centered around pressing intensely without possession, especially in the wings, mostly employing a flexible 3-4-3 system for direct attacks.
Craig Bellamy's Fresh Approach
The new coach has so far exclusively used a defensive line of four, pushing the team to get on the ball and develop plays with greater patience.
Measurable Changes
The change in approach has resulted in a much greater possession rate, a more completed passes and a modest drop in how frequently they lose possession high up the pitch.
Additionally, Wales displays a higher expected goals tally under Bellamy.
Key Consideration
Can Bellamy's approach provide Wales a improved likelihood of defeating England?
The strategic changes since the change demonstrates a clear move away from Page's methods.
- Higher possession rates
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Less giveaways in attack
- Improved expected goals
