England vs Wales Tactical Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's New Style Explained
The Welsh national team have altered their style of football under Craig Bellamy.
Looking at Robert Page’s last dozen matches in charge to Craig Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, an obvious difference is a tactical switch prioritizing ball control and dominating games with the ball.
The Page Era: Aggressive Play
With Page in charge, The Welsh intense style was based on pressing intensely without possession, mainly in the flanks, mostly employing a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.
Craig Bellamy's New Direction
Bellamy has consistently employed a back four, pushing the team to get on the ball and develop plays more methodically.
Measurable Differences
This tactical shift has led to a far higher average possession rate, a more completed passes and a modest drop in how regularly they give the ball away in attacking areas.
Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric with Bellamy.
The Big Question
Will Bellamy's tactics give Wales a improved likelihood of beating England?
The strategic changes under Bellamy signifies a notable shift away from the old system.
- More ball control
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Reduced high turnovers
- Improved expected goals
