England vs Wales Tactical Analysis: Bellamy's Fresh Style Unpacked

The Welsh team in action under Bellamy

Wales have altered their style of football under Bellamy.

When comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games in charge to Craig Bellamy's opening 12 leading Wales, an obvious difference has been a tactical switch prioritizing ball control and controlling matches through possession.

Under Robert Page: Aggressive Football

With Page in charge, The Welsh intense style centered around pressing aggressively off the ball, mainly in wide areas, mostly employing a fluid 3-4-3 formation to push forward aggressively.

Craig Bellamy's New Direction

Craig Bellamy has consistently employed a four-man defense, urging the squad to get on the ball and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.

Statistical Shifts

The new strategy has led to a much greater ball control, a higher tally of passes and a modest drop in how regularly they give the ball away in advanced positions.

The team also shows a higher expected goals tally with Bellamy.

The Big Question

Can Bellamy's approach offer Wales a better opportunity of overcoming England?

The new approach with the new coach represents a clear move away from the old system.

  • Higher possession rates
  • Slower, methodical attacks
  • Reduced high turnovers
  • Better xG numbers
Lindsey Perry
Lindsey Perry

A tech enthusiast and UX designer with over a decade of experience in creating user-centered digital products and sharing knowledge through writing.