Wales vs England Tactical Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's New Style Explained
The Welsh national team have changed their style of football under Craig Bellamy.
When comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches as coach with Craig Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, a noticeable shift has been a new approach to focus more on possession and controlling matches with the ball.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Play
During Page's tenure, The Welsh aggressive tactics focused on pressing intensely without possession, especially in the flanks, predominantly using a fluid 3-4-3 formation to attack directly.
Craig Bellamy's Fresh Approach
The new coach has so far exclusively used a back four, pushing the team to maintain possession and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Shifts
This tactical shift has resulted in a much greater ball control, a increased pass count and a slight reduction in how often they turn the ball over in advanced positions.
The team also shows a higher expected goals tally since Bellamy took over.
The Big Question
Can Bellamy's approach give Wales a better opportunity of defeating England?
The tactical evolution since the change demonstrates a significant departure from the old system.
- More ball control
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Improved expected goals
