England vs Wales Strategic Analysis: Craig Bellamy's New Style Unpacked
The Welsh national team have altered their method of football with their new coach.
Looking at the previous manager's last dozen matches in charge with Craig Bellamy's opening 12 leading Wales, an obvious difference has been a new approach emphasizing ball control and controlling matches through possession.
Under Robert Page: High-Energy Play
Under Page, The Welsh intense style was based on pressing aggressively without possession, particularly in the flanks, predominantly using a flexible 3-4-3 system to attack directly.
Craig Bellamy's New Direction
Craig Bellamy has only utilized a four-man defense, encouraging his players to hold the ball and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.
Measurable Shifts
The change in approach has produced a much greater amount of possession, a increased pass count and a slight reduction in how often they turn the ball over in advanced positions.
Wales also boast a better xG statistics since Bellamy took over.
Key Consideration
Can Bellamy's approach provide Wales a better opportunity of overcoming England?
The new approach with the new coach demonstrates a significant departure away from the old system.
- Increased possession
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Reduced high turnovers
- Improved expected goals
