England vs Wales Strategic Breakdown: Bellamy's New Approach Explained
Wales have adjusted their method of play with Craig Bellamy.
By comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games in charge with Bellamy's opening 12 leading Wales, an obvious difference is a strategic change prioritizing possession and controlling matches with the ball.
The Page Era: High-Energy Football
During Page's tenure, The Welsh intense style centered around pressing aggressively off the ball, especially in wide areas, typically using a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Bellamy's Fresh Approach
Craig Bellamy has only utilized a back four, urging the squad to get on the ball and build attacks more methodically.
Measurable Changes
The change in approach has led to a much greater ball control, a more completed passes and a small decrease in how regularly they give the ball away in attacking areas.
The team also shows a improved expected goals metric under Bellamy.
Key Consideration
Will Bellamy's tactics give Wales a improved likelihood of beating England?
The tactical evolution since the change demonstrates a clear move away from Page's methods.
- Increased possession
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Better xG numbers
