England vs Wales Strategic Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's New Style Unpacked
Wales have adjusted their method of play under their new coach.
Looking at Robert Page’s final 12 games as coach with Craig Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, an obvious difference is a strategic change to focus more on possession and controlling matches with the ball.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Football
During Page's tenure, Wales' intense style centered around pressing intensely off the ball, especially in wide areas, mostly employing a adaptable 3-4-3 setup to push forward aggressively.
Craig Bellamy's Different Style
Bellamy has consistently employed a four-man defense, pushing the team to hold the ball and construct offensive moves more methodically.
Statistical Changes
This tactical shift has led to a far higher average possession rate, a more completed passes and a modest drop in how often they turn the ball over high up the pitch.
Wales also boast a better xG statistics since Bellamy took over.
Key Consideration
Do Bellamy's strategies provide Wales a improved likelihood of overcoming England?
The strategic changes with the new coach signifies a significant departure from the old system.
- Higher possession rates
- Deliberate offensive construction
- Less giveaways in attack
- Better xG numbers
