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

The Welsh team training under Craig Bellamy

The Welsh national team have altered their approach of football under Craig Bellamy.

When comparing the previous manager's last dozen matches in charge with Craig Bellamy's opening 12 as Wales head coach, an obvious difference is a new approach to focus more on possession and controlling matches through possession.

The Page Era: High-Energy Football

Under Page, The Welsh high-energy approach focused on applying high pressure without possession, mainly in the wings, predominantly using a adaptable 3-4-3 setup to push forward aggressively.

Craig Bellamy's Fresh Approach

Craig Bellamy has only utilized a back four, encouraging his players to maintain possession and build attacks in a more prosaic manner.

Measurable Differences

The change in approach has led to a significantly increased possession rate, a increased pass count and a small decrease in how frequently they lose possession high up the pitch.

Additionally, Wales displays a better xG statistics with Bellamy.

The Big Question

Can Bellamy's approach offer Wales a greater chance of beating England?

The tactical evolution since the change represents a clear move away from the old system.

  • Increased possession
  • Deliberate offensive construction
  • Less giveaways in attack
  • Better xG numbers
Ashley Owen
Ashley Owen

A passionate sports journalist with over a decade of experience covering local Sicilian teams and events.