England vs Wales Strategic Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's Fresh Style Explained
The Welsh national team have altered their method of football with Bellamy.
Looking at the previous manager's last dozen matches in charge with Craig Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, an obvious difference has been a strategic change emphasizing ball control and dominating games through possession.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Play
Under Page, Wales' aggressive tactics centered around pressing aggressively off the ball, particularly in wide areas, predominantly using a fluid 3-4-3 formation to push forward aggressively.
Craig Bellamy's Fresh Approach
The new coach has consistently employed a four-man defense, urging the squad to get on the ball and develop plays with greater patience.
Statistical Changes
The new strategy has produced a significantly increased possession rate, a more completed passes and a small decrease in how frequently they lose possession in advanced positions.
The team also shows a better xG statistics with Bellamy.
The Big Question
Will Bellamy's tactics provide Wales a improved likelihood of defeating England?
The tactical evolution since the change represents a significant departure away from the previous regime.
- More ball control
- More patient build-up
- Reduced high turnovers
- Improved expected goals