Wales vs England Tactical Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's New Approach Explained
The Welsh national team have changed their approach of football under their new coach.
Looking at Robert Page’s last dozen matches as coach with Craig Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, one clear change has been a tactical switch emphasizing possession and dominating games with the ball.
Under Robert Page: Aggressive Play
With Page in charge, The Welsh high-energy approach focused on pressing aggressively without possession, especially in wide areas, typically using a flexible 3-4-3 system to attack directly.
Bellamy's Fresh Approach
The new coach has consistently employed a back four, pushing the team to hold the ball and build attacks with greater patience.
Statistical Changes
This tactical shift has led to a much greater amount of possession, a increased pass count and a slight reduction in how frequently they lose possession high up the pitch.
Wales also boast a improved expected goals metric under Bellamy.
Main Talking Point
Can Bellamy's approach offer Wales a greater chance of defeating England?
The new approach under Bellamy demonstrates a significant departure away from the old system.
- More ball control
- More patient build-up
- Reduced high turnovers
- Better xG numbers
