England vs Wales Strategic Analysis: Bellamy's Fresh Approach Explained
The Welsh national team have changed their approach of play under Bellamy.
By comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches as coach to Bellamy's opening 12 leading Wales, an obvious difference has been a strategic change emphasizing ball control and controlling matches through possession.
Under Robert Page: Aggressive Play
With Page in charge, Wales' intense style was based on pressing aggressively without possession, mainly in the wings, typically using a fluid 3-4-3 formation to push forward aggressively.
Bellamy's Fresh Approach
Bellamy has consistently employed a four-man defense, urging the squad to hold the ball and develop plays more methodically.
Measurable Changes
The change in approach has resulted in a significantly increased amount of possession, a higher tally of passes and a slight reduction in how regularly they give the ball away high up the pitch.
Additionally, Wales displays a higher expected goals tally under Bellamy.
Main Talking Point
Will Bellamy's tactics offer Wales a better opportunity of beating England?
The tactical evolution under Bellamy demonstrates a significant departure away from the previous regime.
- Higher possession rates
- Slower, methodical attacks
- Fewer losses in advanced areas
- Enhanced scoring probability