England vs Wales Strategic Analysis: Bellamy's New Approach Explained
The Welsh national team have adjusted their style of football with Bellamy.
When comparing the previous manager's final 12 games as coach to Craig Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, a noticeable shift is a tactical switch to focus more on possession and dominating games through possession.
Under Robert Page: Aggressive Play
With Page in charge, Wales' high-energy approach was based on applying high pressure without possession, mainly in the wings, mostly employing a flexible 3-4-3 system for direct attacks.
Bellamy's Different Style
The new coach has consistently employed a four-man defense, pushing the team to hold the ball and build attacks with greater patience.
Measurable Shifts
This tactical shift has produced a far higher average ball control, a increased pass count and a slight reduction in how often they turn the ball over in attacking areas.
The team also shows a better xG statistics since Bellamy took over.
Main Talking Point
Do Bellamy's strategies provide Wales a better opportunity of defeating England?
The strategic changes with the new coach represents a clear move away from the previous regime.
- More ball control
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Reduced high turnovers
- Better xG numbers