Wales vs England Strategic Analysis: Craig Bellamy's Fresh Style Explained
Wales have changed their style of football under Craig Bellamy.
By comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games in charge with Bellamy's first 12 games leading Wales, one clear change has been a new approach prioritizing possession and controlling matches with the ball.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Play
With Page in charge, The Welsh high-energy approach focused on pressing aggressively without possession, especially in the wings, predominantly using a flexible 3-4-3 system to attack directly.
Craig Bellamy's Different Style
The new coach has consistently employed a back four, encouraging his players to hold the ball and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Differences
The change in approach has produced a much greater ball control, a increased pass count and a small decrease in how often they turn the ball over high up the pitch.
Wales also boast a improved expected goals metric under Bellamy.
Key Consideration
Can Bellamy's approach give Wales a improved likelihood of beating England?
The new approach since the change signifies a notable shift away from the previous regime.
- More ball control
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Less giveaways in attack
- Better xG numbers
