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

By comparing Robert Page’s final 12 games as coach to Craig Bellamy's first 12 games as Wales head coach, an obvious difference has been a tactical switch prioritizing ball control and controlling matches with the ball.

The Page Era: Aggressive Play

With Page in charge, The Welsh intense style was based on pressing intensely without possession, particularly in wide areas, typically using a fluid 3-4-3 formation to push forward aggressively.

Craig Bellamy's Different Style

The new coach has consistently employed a back four, urging the squad to maintain possession and construct offensive moves in a more prosaic manner.

Measurable Shifts

The change in approach has resulted in a far higher average possession rate, a higher tally of passes and a slight reduction in how often they turn the ball over high up the pitch.

The team also shows a better xG statistics under Bellamy.

Main Talking Point

Will Bellamy's tactics provide Wales a improved likelihood of defeating England?

The tactical evolution with the new coach demonstrates a significant departure away from the previous regime.

• Increased possession
• Deliberate offensive construction
• Reduced high turnovers
• Improved expected goals