Wales vs England Tactical Analysis: Craig Bellamy's New Approach Explained

When comparing Robert Page’s last dozen matches in charge with Craig Bellamy's opening 12 leading Wales, an obvious difference has been a tactical switch emphasizing ball control and dominating games through possession.

The Page Era: Aggressive Football

Under Page, Wales' intense style was based on pressing aggressively without possession, particularly in the flanks, typically using a flexible 3-4-3 system to push forward aggressively.

Craig Bellamy's New Direction

Bellamy has only utilized a defensive line of four, pushing the team to get on the ball and develop plays in a more prosaic manner.

Measurable Differences

This tactical shift has resulted in a significantly increased possession rate, a more completed passes and a small decrease in how regularly they give the ball away in advanced positions.

The team also shows a higher expected goals tally with Bellamy.

The Big Question

Will Bellamy's tactics provide Wales a better opportunity of defeating England?

The strategic changes under Bellamy represents a significant departure away from Page's methods.

• Increased possession
• Deliberate offensive construction
• Fewer losses in advanced areas
• Improved expected goals