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

When comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games as coach to Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, an obvious difference has been a strategic change to focus more on ball control and controlling matches through possession.

Under Robert Page: High-Energy Play

With Page in charge, The Welsh intense style focused on pressing aggressively without possession, particularly in wide areas, typically using a fluid 3-4-3 formation for direct attacks.

Craig Bellamy's New Direction

Bellamy has so far exclusively used a defensive line of four, encouraging his players to hold the ball and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.

Statistical Differences

This tactical shift has produced a significantly increased ball control, a higher tally of passes and a modest drop in how frequently they lose possession in attacking areas.

Wales also boast a higher expected goals tally since Bellamy took over.

Key Consideration

Will Bellamy's tactics give Wales a greater chance of beating England?

The tactical evolution with the new coach represents a clear move away from the previous regime.

• Increased possession
• Slower, methodical attacks
• Less giveaways in attack
• Better xG numbers