Wales vs England Strategic Analysis: Bellamy's Fresh Style Explained

Wales in action under Craig Bellamy

Wales have changed their style of football with Bellamy.

By comparing the previous manager's final 12 games in charge with Craig Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, an obvious difference has been a new approach emphasizing ball control and controlling matches with the ball.

The Page Era: High-Energy Football

Under Page, Wales' intense style centered around pressing aggressively off the ball, especially in the wings, typically using a adaptable 3-4-3 setup to attack directly.

Craig Bellamy's New Direction

Bellamy has only utilized a defensive line of four, pushing the team to hold the ball and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.

Measurable Differences

The new strategy has resulted in a much greater amount of possession, a more completed passes and a small decrease in how regularly they give the ball away in advanced positions.

The team also shows a better xG statistics since Bellamy took over.

Key Consideration

Can Bellamy's approach give Wales a improved likelihood of overcoming England?

The strategic changes under Bellamy demonstrates a notable shift away from Page's methods.

  • More ball control
  • More patient build-up
  • Reduced high turnovers
  • Improved expected goals
John Carey
John Carey

A digital artist and educator passionate about sharing techniques and fostering creativity in the online art community.