England vs Wales Tactical Breakdown: Bellamy's Fresh Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have adjusted their style of play with their new coach.
When comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games as coach with Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, one clear change is a new approach emphasizing ball control and controlling matches through possession.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Play
With Page in charge, Wales' intense style focused on applying high pressure off the ball, mainly in the wings, mostly employing a fluid 3-4-3 formation to attack directly.
Bellamy's Different Style
Bellamy has consistently employed a four-man defense, encouraging his players to get on the ball and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.
Statistical Changes
The new strategy has produced a far higher average amount of possession, a more completed passes and a small decrease in how frequently they lose possession in attacking areas.
Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric since Bellamy took over.
The Big Question
Do Bellamy's strategies offer Wales a better opportunity of defeating England?
The tactical evolution since the change demonstrates a clear move away from the previous regime.
- Increased possession
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Reduced high turnovers
- Improved expected goals
