Wales vs England Strategic Breakdown: Bellamy's Fresh Approach Unpacked
The Welsh national team have adjusted their approach of football with Bellamy.
When comparing the previous manager's final 12 games in charge with Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, one clear change has been a strategic change to focus more on ball control and dominating games through possession.
The Page Era: Aggressive Football
With Page in charge, Wales' intense style centered around applying high pressure off the ball, particularly in wide areas, typically using a flexible 3-4-3 system for direct attacks.
Craig Bellamy's Fresh Approach
Bellamy has only utilized a four-man defense, urging the squad to hold the ball and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.
Measurable Shifts
The new strategy has resulted in a much greater possession rate, a more completed passes and a slight reduction in how regularly they give the ball away high up the pitch.
The team also shows a higher expected goals tally since Bellamy took over.
The Big Question
Can Bellamy's approach offer Wales a greater chance of defeating England?
The new approach since the change demonstrates a clear move away from the previous regime.
- Increased possession
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Better xG numbers
