England vs Wales Strategic Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's New Style Explained
The Welsh national team have adjusted their method of football under Craig Bellamy.
Looking at the previous manager's last dozen matches as coach with Craig Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, one clear change is a tactical switch prioritizing ball control and controlling matches through possession.
The Page Era: Aggressive Play
During Page's tenure, Wales' intense style centered around applying high pressure off the ball, especially in wide areas, predominantly using a flexible 3-4-3 system for direct attacks.
Bellamy's New Direction
Bellamy has only utilized a back four, urging the squad to maintain possession and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Differences
This tactical shift has led to a much greater possession rate, a increased pass count and a slight reduction in how regularly they give the ball away high up the pitch.
Wales also boast a higher expected goals tally under Bellamy.
Main Talking Point
Can Bellamy's approach provide Wales a improved likelihood of beating England?
The tactical evolution since the change demonstrates a clear move from the previous regime.
- Higher possession rates
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Reduced high turnovers
- Enhanced scoring probability