Wales vs England Tactical Analysis: Bellamy's Fresh Approach Unpacked
The Welsh national team have altered their approach of play under Craig Bellamy.
When comparing the previous manager's last dozen matches as coach with Craig Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, one clear change has been a new approach to focus more on possession and dominating games with the ball.
Under Robert Page: Aggressive Football
During Page's tenure, Wales' aggressive tactics was based on pressing intensely without possession, mainly in the wings, typically using a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Craig Bellamy's New Direction
Craig Bellamy has only utilized a back four, encouraging his players to get on the ball and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.
Measurable Shifts
This tactical shift has led to a far higher average possession rate, a more completed passes and a modest drop in how frequently they lose possession in attacking areas.
Additionally, Wales displays a better xG statistics under Bellamy.
Main Talking Point
Will Bellamy's tactics provide Wales a improved likelihood of overcoming England?
The new approach since the change represents a clear move from Page's methods.
- Increased possession
- More patient build-up
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Improved expected goals
