Wales vs England Tactical Analysis: Bellamy's Fresh Approach Unpacked

Looking at Robert Page’s last dozen matches as coach to Craig Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, one clear change has been a strategic change to focus more on ball control and controlling matches through possession.

The Page Era: High-Energy Football

With Page in charge, The Welsh high-energy approach was based on pressing intensely off the ball, particularly in wide areas, mostly employing a adaptable 3-4-3 setup for direct attacks.

Bellamy's Fresh Approach

Craig Bellamy has so far exclusively used a four-man defense, encouraging his players to maintain possession and build attacks with greater patience.

Statistical Differences

This tactical shift has led to a much greater ball control, a higher tally of passes and a slight reduction in how often they turn the ball over in advanced positions.

Additionally, Wales displays a improved expected goals metric under Bellamy.

Main Talking Point

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

The tactical evolution since the change signifies a clear move away from the previous regime.

• More ball control
• More patient build-up
• Fewer losses in advanced areas
• Better xG numbers