Wales vs England Strategic Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's New Style Explained
The Welsh national team have adjusted their style of football under Craig Bellamy.
By comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games in charge with Craig Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, a noticeable shift is a tactical switch emphasizing ball control and controlling matches through possession.
The Page Era: Aggressive Football
During Page's tenure, Wales' intense style was based on applying high pressure without possession, especially in wide areas, typically using a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Bellamy's Different Style
The new coach has only utilized a four-man defense, pushing the team to get on the ball and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.
Measurable Differences
This tactical shift has led to a much greater possession rate, a higher tally of passes and a small decrease in how regularly they give the ball away in attacking areas.
Wales also boast a better xG statistics since Bellamy took over.
The Big Question
Do Bellamy's strategies give Wales a improved likelihood of overcoming England?
The tactical evolution since the change signifies a significant departure from Page's methods.
- Increased possession
- More patient build-up
- Reduced high turnovers
- Enhanced scoring probability
