Wales vs England Tactical Breakdown: Craig Bellamy's Fresh Style Unpacked

The Welsh team training with Craig Bellamy

Wales have altered their style of play under their new coach.

By comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches as coach with Bellamy's opening 12 leading Wales, an obvious difference has been a tactical switch to focus more on ball control and controlling matches with the ball.

Under Robert Page: High-Energy Football

With Page in charge, Wales' aggressive tactics focused on pressing intensely off the ball, particularly in the wings, predominantly using a fluid 3-4-3 formation to push forward aggressively.

Bellamy's Different Style

The new coach has only utilized a defensive line of four, urging the squad to maintain possession and develop plays with greater patience.

Statistical Changes

The change in approach has produced a far higher average amount of possession, a more completed passes and a modest drop in how frequently they lose possession in attacking areas.

The team also shows a improved expected goals metric under Bellamy.

The Big Question

Can Bellamy's approach provide Wales a greater chance of overcoming England?

The strategic changes under Bellamy represents a clear move from the old system.

  • Higher possession rates
  • More patient build-up
  • Reduced high turnovers
  • Better xG numbers
Troy Smith
Troy Smith

A passionate travel writer and local expert, sharing her love for Italian culture and hidden gems around Lake Como.