Wales vs England Strategic Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's New Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have adjusted their approach of football with Bellamy.
When comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games in charge with Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, one clear change has been a strategic change prioritizing ball control and controlling matches with the ball.
Under Robert Page: Aggressive Football
With Page in charge, The Welsh intense style was based on pressing intensely without possession, particularly in the flanks, typically using a flexible 3-4-3 system to push forward aggressively.
Craig Bellamy's Different Style
Craig Bellamy has only utilized a four-man defense, pushing the team to hold the ball and build attacks with greater patience.
Measurable Shifts
The new strategy has led to a far higher average possession rate, a more completed passes and a slight reduction in how frequently they lose possession in advanced positions.
Additionally, Wales displays a higher expected goals tally since Bellamy took over.
Key Consideration
Will Bellamy's tactics give Wales a greater chance of beating England?
The new approach under Bellamy represents a clear move away from the old system.
- Higher possession rates
- More patient build-up
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Enhanced scoring probability
